bcl

Sure, currently all responses are qualified with the word “may”, and it’s not currently suggested that anyone goes out right now and starts making changes without more information. We know what works with other cars, but not with the Ford, especially because we don’t know what features are incorporated into the ecu. The best and most successful aftermarket mods incorporate ecu adjustments, as it’s the only way to tune the car. Just because an LS1 has some ecu features, it does not mean that it’s in the Ford program. Brian

Thanks Turbo6man, one of the more sensible responses for a while in this thread. To your response I would add the alternative of a stroker kit to add cubic displacement, which is an expensive option, and possibly not available for a while on the Ford. The main aim for major drivability (as opposed to maximizing power) is faster turbo spool-up. At the moment there are too many unknowns with regard to what Ford has built. With REXs, GTRs, 200sx etc there are many years of experience to know what works and what doesn’t. To your response I’d add that gas temperature (which impacts exhaust gas flow) is an important factor in turbo spool up. Generally this can also be changed by modifying timing and fuel mixtures. An EGT gauge helps here. The exhaust manifold design looks a bit crude and no doubt will be redesigned by aftermarket people, and a split pulse turbo (which I’m not aware is currently used). The dump pipe design also helps, and we’ll find out soon if the dump pipe design uses the split gas flow technique commonly used by aftermarket systems. (I doubt it does) The size/restriction of the exhaust system will also help spool-up. I’ve had many 3” low restriction systems, but my favourite is 4” with dual straight-thru mufflers for less drone and better low-end response. No doubt others will play with different compressor designs. I’m sure there are many things that will improve turbo spool up, and give a good increase in torque between say 1800 and 3000 revs. It’s quite amazing how often with factory version can be substantially improved. Someone also mentioned wastegate creep. I doubt that it will be a factor with only 6 pound…. This is more a problem with 1 bar or more. People that have not had turbos before, but only V8’s, will find that this a totally new ballgame, and a lot more fun. Also there are quite a few relatively inexpensive things that can be done for improved performance. Don’t worry too much about lack of grunt, just drop a gear; the V8’s will wonder what hit ‘em. Brian

Loved it! OK on Win 2K.

Thanks to City Ford I test drove both. I currently have 3 modified turbo manual cars (far quicker than the Ford), but was really interested in trying the auto. I found the manual fairly easy to drive, the clutch no where near as heavy as the press have made out. My initial impression was that the gearbox was very notchy, but after a longish test drive I got used to it. My wife also drives a manual turbo, and I don't think she'd have a problem with it. I could live with it without a problem. The good torque of the 4 litre does make it easier to drive than say a 2 litre turbo. As for the auto, I found it a novelty, and did like the way it holds gear. After a while I got a bit sick of it, and just left it in drive. But I knew that I could always go back to manual mode if I felt like it. I'd go for the auto if I was driving mostly in traffic or pulling a boat. I have not seen fuel consumption figures for both options, but maybe some members can reply.... and consumption normally does vary greatly depending on driving style and traffic conditions. 0 to 100kph times are good in the manual for a stock car, at around 6 secs, but this a bit flattering as this is still just in second gear just before the change to 3rd. I've not seen back to back performance tests between the manual and auto, and would like to see figures. Maybe Ford or someone can supply something. As for modifications, it currently is an unknown how the manual gearbox will handle mods, but generally most gearbox failures occur after some abuse, rather than ultimate power. It may eventuate that the auto may be a better choice with a modified car, where power is upped to over 300kw. For many buyers the Ford will be their first turbo car, and they will probably chose an auto. The real enthusiest will almost always chose a manual. In a stock car my preference is to chose the manual, but it not an easy decision, nor as clear cut as I would have expected.