Comparing a ZS180 to my tuned ZS derv

[stamford]

Two totally different cars for different driving experiences. Let's not get carried away with drag race scenarios here as either are designed for it. If we are talking about pulling away from the lights then the V6 will pull and pull unless the derv has been well tweaked, then that will leave a 180, just, until the derv runs out of power band high up the mph chart. With a derv it is keeping the turbo spooling and well timed upshifts. Downside will be the lag and pulling away in too low a gear=nothing. Whereas the V6 can pull in any gear without protest.

So to me for everyday fun and unlimited revs it has to be a V6, for everyday commuting looking at the fuel gauge and the odd bit of traffic light grand prix a tuned derv.

I run a 1.9 CDTi Vectra everyday and it can be nippy off the lights but runs out of grunt compared to the 180 where it keeps on pulling. Gear shifts are important in order to get the best out of it as the power band is so narrow. Probably why it has a 6 speed box. The 180 is happier when higher up the rev range needing less gear changes to keep it sweet.

[Skillen]

Following this, my cousin has a Leon FR550 diesel with 170bhp and 258lbft.
From a rolling start in second he had me for about 2seconds then had to change up I hit the higher revs and then pulled away with every change after that in my mk1.

Dervs don't do it for me all that much as I feel they're lacking and I'm left wanting more revs.

[Enright]

As a derv owner I had to shrug and admit that Dan1971 posted a lot of sense at the top of the last page, but then economy IS so often a factor in these hard times. It's a testament to this forum that the discussion is such a good-natured one. I think we all agree that it's just nice to get the ZS experience, whatever is under the bonnet. Well, unless it's yellow. Or a saloon. Or both. Nudge nudge!

Personally I love the combo of the 180's looks and handling, and the diesel's frugality.

Tuned ZS dervs have an inbuilt optical illusion of being faster than they are anyway, because when you put your foot down people disappear behind - either in the cloud of clag, or simply to stop short of driving through it! Either way it's ALWAYS funny to see them frantically wafting because they think the car is about to expire in front of them. 180's get the rorty snorty V6 growl experience, we get the James Bond smokescreen. Both are hugely grin-inducing, although I suspect the comedic value of the "black dump" contributes to a further childish giggle from the derv driver.

[Steven11]

Dervs don't do it for me all that much as I feel they're lacking and I'm left wanting more revs.[/QUOTE]

Agreed, as said before a V6 diesel would make all the difference but the short legs on the 2.0 just dont do it for me.

[Fred68]

My wife has a 170 bhp Astra GTC diesel, having driven that and my induction and exhaust modded 180, I can honestly say the turbo derv has no chance of keeping with the 180 on the straight or twisty bits, it's just about impossible to keep it in the 1700rpm power band. If you want a relaxing cruise though the GTC has that all sown up.

[peterzs]

Yellow, black smoke and 234 ft lbs, gives loads of smiles a gallon.

Might lose out on very top end to the 180, but we will go by when you have to pull into the filling station!!!

[Craig-ZS180]

Originally Posted by peterzs

Yellow, black smoke and 234 ft lbs, gives loads of smiles a gallon.

Talking about that Pete, when you were behind me and Dan on the way to the Duxford saloon day I wasn't quite at full chat when going down the m11 but the way yours kept with me and Dan everytime we did push on shows that when tuned they aren't to be sniffed at

[Jay-ZS+]

Originally Posted by p_b82

I'd been told that mine would really give a V6 a run for its money..

You know where I am when you wanna put it to the test lol

[p_b82]

Originally Posted by Jay-ZS+

You know where I am when you wanna put it to the test lol

Well when i wont blow the HG when using full throttle we can do just that

[peterzs]

Originally Posted by Craig-ZS180

Talking about that Pete, when you were behind me and Dan on the way to the Duxford saloon day I wasn't quite at full chat when going down the m11 but the way yours kept with me and Dan everytime we did push on shows that when tuned they aren't to be sniffed at

I was only at half throttle, Craig!!!!