The Cart Before the Horse: Spec 3 Build

[Jake]

Knowing you were coming from a (capable, but) skittery GTI on all-seasons made me so happy to take this out and feel how good it was by comparison. Yes, the GTI has the magic differential, but you will develop so much more as a driver with this 325i. I think the brakes and level of grip are good for where you are at, and will remain a good option for a while longer.

Good call switching to the newer Toyo RR, I hate the idea of you running around on 10-year-old RA1s. I understand this is a budget build in some ways, but skimping on the four small contact patches that keep you stuck to the asphalt as you fly through South Bend isn't a great idea. Those RRs should last a while, even if peak grip is gone after a few more HCs.

A/C delete saves 40 lbs and sunroof delete saves another good chunk. The tar on the floor is another 35-40. I waited until cage time to delete the sunroof on mine (metal panel gets welded in place, you remove cassette and motor). In the interest of keeping it reasonably street-friendly to drive to events, keeping the A/C and sound-deadening tar on the floors is probably a good idea for now. Where are you thinking you can lose weight now?

Glad to see you out there in a solid car!!