[farmer335i]

Hey all! Got a trade option recently for my car, a bone stock 2009 BMW 335xi Sedan with 96k miles. The car in question is a 2012 GOLF R in a blue color. Replaced engine and currently at 86k miles. APR STG2 for people who know that.
Is it worth it?
Thanks,
Will

[StradaRedlands]

Both MTs? If not, there's your answer!

[farmer335i]

Originally Posted by StradaRedlands

Both MTs? If not, there's your answer!

Unfortunately mine is not, haha

[StradaRedlands]

Golf R it is then!

The Bimmer is going to look a little more sophisticated, the VW a little more boy racer. BMWs are kinda' a dime a dozen, while the Golf R is a little more unique. If mileage and maintenance records are all good, go for it!!!

[3PedalJake]

Originally Posted by StradaRedlands

Golf R it is then!

The Bimmer is going to look a little more sophisticated, the VW a little more boy racer. BMWs are kinda' a dime a dozen, while the Golf R is a little more unique. If mileage and maintenance records are all good, go for it!!!

Seconded. I'd prefer a 6MT 335i, but any auto to manual trade is a trade up IMO. The Golf R is a cool car tho, I'd drive one even tho I'd look out of my geezer element behind the wheel.

[autoAER]

Say NO to old N54’s

(jk)

Golf is newer, manual, and as mentioned above, a more unique option. I’d say worth it!

[eljay]

Golf R!

Manual > auto
Hatchback > sedan

[oVeRdOsE.]

manual for sure, those car, 335 or R , are meant to be driven so = manual.

2012 is quite old, is the mk6 version with the 2.0T 1st gen ! so the similar engine developed for 2006 A4s. So about same era than N54s.

cam follower and balancer shaft are something to check (and I would delete the balancer shaft). Also, cam chains tensioner is a maintenance item + the timing belt.
Oil pumps are also an issue if driven on high rpm, the oil pump sproket is 2x RPM, ouch !


Those engine are power limited, around 350bhp.


Also a fully loaded E90 (if your is) is more equipped than a mk6.

On long run both will be expensive, N54 might be more expensive statistically, but way more fun.


My choice : Mk6 100% if the 335 manual swap is not a option

[R3dLeader]

Oil consumption is likely a much bigger issue on that VW 2.0T. Watch out for that, it's not fun to deal with.

[oVeRdOsE.]

Originally Posted by R3dLeader

Oil consumption is likely a much bigger issue on that VW 2.0T. Watch out for that, it's not fun to deal with.

on this engine is mainly turbo journal bearing.

Ive the same engine, and my intercooler is full of oil, no need to empty it, it fills up too quickly.
It's like that since the car's new and never increased, so not a huge issue on my side. Does not smoke, but sometimes it will be darker on a WOT if it's been a while. Not visible from the driver position, but sometimes when someone following me he can notice.

I've used a recirc catch can and a water meth injection kit to keep the valves clean. No performance benefit, but maybe the spray is on the T° sensor and the flash tune is 93oct so I fuel 91 instead of 93/94oct.

[fastboatster]

golf r even if it was dsg

[StradaRedlands]

It's cool seeing all the R love here!

[eljay]

The best sound, however, comes from the previous gen R32.

[DBShiznit]

My friend had a Z4 N54 DCT car and he sold it. Went to a Golf R from the same era and he was not impressed even though the Golf R was a manual. I think with the right transmission the N54 can be much better. I'm currently looking into the 8HP swaps to give the N54 the edge that the 6hp takes away. It all comes down to preference. I will say my manual e82 with upgraded turbos is SO much fun spinning tires going through gears.