The engine management was sourced through friend Kevin Black, who sells and tunes the Autronic systems. Although the current tune is a base map, Matt's sure of the engine's potential. "I have the boost turned all the way down and it's still making good power. I haven't dynoed it yet but it has to be making over 300hp, since it's faster than my Rabbit 16v hp turbo, which made 340hp," he asserted.
TT 02M six-speed transmission chosen over Golf Rallye five-speed
The Syncro drivetrain was imported from Holland, including the rear subframe and Rallye transmission. "I started with the standard Syncro, using the Rallye gearbox and rear end, but I worked out I could do the Audi TT Haldex system for a couple of bucks more, and that would handle a lot more power," he told us. "But it was a nightmare."
Custom mounts were needed to lower the TT's 02M six-speed gearbox about an inch, allowing it to mate to the driveshaft. Custom brackets then mounted the Haldex rear end in place of the weaker Syncro unit. Surprisingly, it mated to the standard rear axles without an issue. There was still the problem of controlling the electronic Haldex system itself, but the versatile Autronic system was up to the task. "I was trying to get a standalone controller for the Haldex, but couldn't," Matt said. "It was a long process and we eventually built our own control board for it."
Haldex rear differential unit is controlled by the engine's Autronic SM4 standalone management
Kevin and Matt integrated the systems so the Autronic SM4 now controls the Haldex AWD, feeding it information such as wheel speed, boost and more. With the system fully operational, the little red Golf has incredible grip and traction.
An FK Konigsport coilover system sharpens the handling, but one of the most significant benefits of the AWD set up is the independent rear suspension, which gives improved handling and a superior ride. "I'd never want a regular Golf after this," he enthused. "The ride is so much smoother... I was amazed by it!"
A complete brake conversion from a Corrado G60 was installed, including the master cylinder. Zimmerman drilled rotors replace the stock items, and Mintex pads give more pedal feel for street performance.
Matt had previously purchased a set of Kodiak wheels for a 911 Turbo project, so knew exactly what he wanted for the Golf. A set was built to his spec, measuring 16x8.5" front and 16x9" rear, with gold centers and polished lips.
"I really like them. They look great, are easy to order and are fairly inexpensive."
They lend the perfect motorsport influence to the car, looking both classy and purposeful. They're mated to 215/40 Hankook K104 tires.
Naturally, a stock exterior wouldn't do. But Matt stuck to his original factory-racer vision and extended the OEM fenders by 2" all round, giving a subtle but aggressive appearance.
Despite it being his least favorite color, Matt retained the stock red paint and simply resprayed it. The side moldings and exhaust cutout were shaved beforehand, while small Euro bumpers, a 16v chin, Euro tail lights and a narrow-slat single round grille were installed after the painting was completed.