Mike Genco isn't your typical Volkswagen driver. In fact, nothing surrounding Mike, or his Jetta, is "typical." Take for instance Mike's occupation. Believe this... he a full-time student. How a college student can drive an incredible Jetta like this I'll never know.
When I was in school, my daily means of transportation was a beat up '77 Chevy Malibu. No European sedan for me, just a hand-me-down family mobile. Not that I'm complaining, anyway, back to the Jetta.
The 2000 Volkswagen Jetta 1.8T you see here is Mike's baby. And although it may look fairly conservative, trust me when I say it's not.
Mike started the build up soon after purchasing the new Jetta. Suspension modifications came first with high-performance components consisting of Bilstein Sport series struts supported by Neuspeed Race series coil springs. Adding to the suspension setup is a Neuspeed upper strut tower stress bar. Last to be installed were 18x8-inch Konig Toxxin wheels surrounded by Toyo tires measuring 225/40-18 at each corner. Believe me when I say this VW handles like a dream.
While the suspension was torn apart, Mike opted for a brake upgrade. Installed on all four corners are EBC Turbo Grove rotors combined with EBC's famed Green Stuff high-performance brake pads and Neuspeed's braided brake lines. Needless to say, this Volkswagen also stops on a dime.
Underhood enhancements came next. For added throttle response from the tune-happy 1.8T powerplant, Mike opted for the installation of Audi Tuning Products (ATP) 3-inch down pipe and high-flow catalytic converter. Next, a custom fabricated front mount intercooler was installed up front and combined with EuroSport's Cool Flow intake featuring a K&N conical filter. Bringing the whole go-fast formula together is an Audi Performance Racing (APR) variable software chip. The last thing left on the engine compartment modification list was the appointment of a Wet Works Garage color-matched engine cover. Yes, Mike's Jetta has got performance.
Interior upgrades quickly followed as the third stage of construction progressed. Coming standard from Volkswagen with a two-toned leather interior, Genco opted for simple appointments. The cockpit includes: a carbon fiber trim package from Dashboards Plus, a MOMO Race Air carbon-fiber shift knob, AC Auto Design pedal covers and an ABD Racing footrest. Auto Meter gauges were also installed and are housed in a pillar pod just inches away from the driver for constant monitoring. Yes, it's comfortable.
Next to last on the construction list was the exterior. Keeping with the high-performance flavor of the tuned 1.8T powerplant, Mike installed an Erebuni Shogun body kit. Adding to the aero package is a Zender Concept trunk mount lip spoiler, Mattig M3-style side view mirrors, Kamei headlight eyelids, and a JT Motorsport rear window mounted diffuser. Simple yes, gaudy no.
Listening enjoyment came last. Controlling Mike's audio/video system is a Sony Xplod AM/FM/CD head unit connected to an Optiview in-dash 6.4-inch LCD monitor. Sound reproduction starts with a set of MA Audio power amplifiers and is then routed through matching MA Audio speaker separates. A pair of 12-inch MA Audio subs handle rumble frequencies while a 2.0-farad digital capacitor keeps the power flow consistent. Completing the impressive audio installation performed by IKON Autowerks is sound deadening mat provided by Dynomat and wires, fuse blocks, and caps provided by Monster Cable. Yep, it sounds good too.
Now that you know the ins and outs of Mike and his sensational Jetta, you can understand why I say he and his Volkswagen are not typical. This is my kind of car, it's a eurotuner car that I know you readers will appreciate, even if the owner is a starving college student.
Driver SpecMike GencoChino Hills, CA
Occupation:Starving college student