Concept Car: VW Concept R - Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community

Cynthetiq · 10-06-2003, 05:24 PM

Volkswagen is developing a back-to-basics, mid engined roadster that's designed to be light, fast and affordable. The company's chief Bernd Pischetsrieder is expected to unveil a prototype of the two-seater rear-drive rocket at the Tokyo Show this October, with cars reaching showrooms as early as summer 2005

"Imagine a mid-engined lightweight two-seater roadster with Boxster performance and handling at the price of a well equipped Polo. That's the kind of package we are working on," says Pischetsrieder.

That hints at an affordable 15,000 (British pounds) entry price for the as-yet unamed roadster - a package sure to cause headaches for the similarly priced StreetKa, Peugeot 206CC and the Smart Roadster.

VW engineers are said to be aiming to keep the curb weight between 600 and 700kg - more than a Caterham Super Seven, but less than a Vauxhall VX220.

To reach this target they have opted for a mix of materials for the body and structure: aluminum, magnesium, carbon fiber and high-strength steel.

The car will be powered by the 150hp 2.0 liter FSI direct-injection engine that's just been launched in the new Audi A3. It will drive the rear wheels via a six-speed tranny.

VW insiders claim the 0-60mph sprint will take just six seconds, and the top speed will be around 150mph - that's deep into VX and Elise performance territory and enough to blitz more mainstream rivals like the Mazda MX-5, Toyota MR2 and MGF.

Even so, the VW's fuel consuption could be up to 55mpg - a result of the car's light curb weight and it's engines advanced fuel-injection technology.

The VW is said to resemble a downscale version of the stillborn W12-engined Nardo supercar, complete with bold wings and shoulders, truncated rear end and scalloped flanks. The Nardo was shaped by ItalDesign.

To keep close eye on cost, the module which secures the engine and tranny on the new roadster is lifted from the Polo - the subframe is mounted behind the rear seats at 180 degrees.

This mobility of parts is what Pischetsrieder calls "click tecnology" and it allows different structures from different cars in the VW family to fit together, jig-saw style.

VW is serious about the roadster's minimalist nature - there are no plans fit power steering, electric windows or central locking.

To trim curb weight further the VW roadster will use a simple manual fabric roof.

On the safety front, however, VW will check most of the boxes, fitting four airbags, anti-lock brakes and ESP stability control as standard. The fixed rear roll-over hoop and re-inforced windshield frame are said to be integral parts of the chassis stucture - so along with the full safety package, expect a good crash test result.

We understand that one of Pischetsrieder's daughters inspired the roadster concept - she drives a Lotus Elise.

------------

This is a hot design. I do wish that they would produce something along these lines. To me it evokes memories of Karmann Ghias...

ARTelevision · 10-06-2003, 05:44 PM

Well as soon as I saw the pics, I thought - Karmann Ghia.
Then I got to your last sentence... heh heh

yeah.
used to have a Ghia...I'd get one of these just for fun.

hahaha · 10-06-2003, 06:02 PM

That has got to be the prettiest thing Ive ever seen VW release. The only thing I'd change is how the rear end looks, it seems too long, and Im not wild about the tail lights. I would definitly drive it.

pepe · 10-06-2003, 07:41 PM

Looks good. I'm waiting to see what the R32 that makes it to the US is like though. I've heard it might have a 300hp turbo VR6.

soccerchamp76 · 10-06-2003, 07:58 PM

Tail lights - good
Headlights - bad

Needs just a little more juice, it gets 55mpg. If they drop it down to 50mpg they could knock come time off the 0-60 and make it so much better.

But this is an awesome car all around.

Splice · 10-06-2003, 08:12 PM

This is a sweet car. I wonder how much it's gonna cost.

89transam · 10-06-2003, 09:22 PM

It says 15000 brittish pounds, and I think thats around 22,500 american. if the specs on that are true, 55 mpg and 6 second 0-60 Im gonna start saving.

Peryn · 10-06-2003, 10:32 PM

If that price is true....wow. That is a badass looking car, coupled with decent power, should be good handling, and awesome mileage. Im not digging that chrome dash, but i think that is one smooth car. It would give VW a nice kick back into the rear/mid engine and affordable sport market. 700kg...thats what, <2000lbs? If so, wow, 150hp is enough, and this thing should handle something fierce. And that gas mileage....mmp! Think it would mind if i humped the tailpipe?

Rippley · 10-07-2003, 12:20 AM

Looks like a baby Carrera GT, but that, my friends, is an altogether good thing!!
Sooo pretty....

supafly · 10-07-2003, 01:46 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Rippley
Looks like a baby Carrera GT, but that, my friends, is an altogether good thing!!
Sooo pretty....

Thats what I think too!

Rippley · 10-07-2003, 03:34 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by supafly
Thats what I think too!

Excellent... a kindred spirit!

Scorps · 10-07-2003, 08:22 AM

I think the body is ugly but the crome dash is sweet.

WarWagon · 10-07-2003, 08:32 AM

I hate the back and the dash/console, but the rest looks ok to me.

brandon11983 · 10-07-2003, 12:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Pain Train
I think the body is ugly but the crome dash is sweet.

I feel the other way around. I don't like the chrome on the dash, but the lines and body of the car is damn sexy!!

DEI37 · 10-07-2003, 07:28 PM

The interior is fugly, yes...the rest of the car...definitely has potential. Give it another 25hp, you'll lose 2-3mpg, still get better than 50, 175hp, run to 60mph in 5.5. That sounds like a winner.

Pragma · 10-07-2003, 07:54 PM

I definitely like the body styling of it, and if the price of GBP 15,000 is accurate, this car would definitely be a winner for VW. The chrome dash, though, seems like it would blind you the second the sun got behind you.

I thought the most humourous part of the whole article was this:

Quote:

We understand that one of Pischetsrieder's daughters inspired the roadster concept - she drives a Lotus Elise.

HeAtHeN · 10-07-2003, 08:20 PM

The dash is VERY shinny.... but apart from that I like it.

acpower · 10-08-2003, 01:55 AM

that is sexxxxxxy.. yeah it does look like a carrera gt

iamii · 10-08-2003, 08:05 AM

I really can't wait for this car, nice package probably a cheap price, and I love VW's oh so much

Cynthetiq · 10-08-2003, 08:38 AM

IMHO at least it breaks from the bland styling that has become VW. While the Bora/Jetta/Golf/Passat is there, it's along the lines of the Beetle in breaking away from something that looks like the next box next to it.

etardedraverboy · 10-08-2003, 11:13 AM

i want 1

madsenj37 · 10-08-2003, 11:47 PM

The car will not have both great gas mileage and great acceleration. If it does, that car will be so light that an acorn will be unsafe to run into.

johan · 10-09-2003, 06:24 AM

that is the car I dream off :d

Sledge · 10-09-2003, 11:24 AM

That is sexy.

Lust.

JusticeForPhat · 10-09-2003, 02:51 PM

the price alone makes it a winner, but the 55mpg is the icing on the cake. It will be nice to see more direct injection gasoline engines make it to production.

Stare At The Sun · 10-09-2003, 08:43 PM

Very nice, very nice indeed. Didnt think vw could make that sexy of a car

Jonny123 · 10-10-2003, 02:33 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by pepe
Looks good. I'm waiting to see what the R32 that makes it to the US is like though. I've heard it might have a 300hp turbo VR6.

Not gonna happen..we are getting the 3.2L 15º VR6, 240 hp, 236 ft-lbs...

On topic though - this car is pure sex. Interior, exterior...damn I love it. amazed at the power/weight ratio...whatever they did, they did right. And damn, that is just about the classiest interior I have ever seen! Germans do it soo right.

Sledge · 10-10-2003, 07:17 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Cynthetiq
VW is serious about the roadster's minimalist nature - there are no plans fit power steering, electric windows or central locking.

What does this mean?

Pragma · 10-11-2003, 09:49 PM

Well, it means less to draw off the battery -- other than that, not a lot I don't think. Could be wrong, though.

ace81385 · 10-13-2003, 05:06 PM

reminds me of a boxster i dont like it

a1t3r3g0 · 10-14-2003, 08:24 AM

That is sooooooooooo HOT!
And for around mid $20k USD!?! I WANT!

Gnzo · 10-22-2003, 09:10 AM

That is hot! I wonder though, if there are any plans on releasing it in the US?

BeBogus · 10-22-2003, 04:06 PM

looks a lot like a cross between an Audi TT and a VW Golf.... not a bad thing really but just my opinion

matt_mll · 10-23-2003, 04:55 PM

I like the white LED headlights. Never need replacement, and bright as hell!

Cycler · 10-23-2003, 05:30 PM

Looks a little like an Audi TT. Cool ride thought and it reminds me of my friends old Ghia as well.

acpower · 10-25-2003, 03:15 AM

i wonder how the sun would look through the chrome dashboard

forseti-6 · 10-25-2003, 08:47 AM

Looks very nice. I currently have a Jetta, and it has tons of problems, but I just love how VWs handle. Knowing dumbass me, I'll probably buy another VW down the road despite me saying I never would. Anyone see the Phaeton yet?
http://www.vw.com/newModels.htm

wisj2 · 10-25-2003, 04:05 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by 89transam
It says 15000 brittish pounds, and I think thats around 22,500 american. if the specs on that are true, 55 mpg and 6 second 0-60 Im gonna start saving.

15,000 British Pounds is $25,411.58 USD

yellowgowild · 10-25-2003, 05:12 PM

That car makes love to my eyes, the price makes love to my wallet.

sTghezzo · 10-25-2003, 09:06 PM

man how wolkswagens have changed over the years. granted this is a nice car, but it really doesnt say "im a volkswagen" when i look at it. More like "Im a porsche". Im glad VW is comin out with some new stuff though. Quite a change from the old type bugs and bajas and busses with the flat 4cylinders

10-06-2003, 05:24 PM	#1 (permalink)
Cynthetiq Tilted Cat Head Administrator Location: Manhattan, NY	Concept Car: VW Concept R Volkswagen is developing a back-to-basics, mid engined roadster that's designed to be light, fast and affordable. The company's chief Bernd Pischetsrieder is expected to unveil a prototype of the two-seater rear-drive rocket at the Tokyo Show this October, with cars reaching showrooms as early as summer 2005 "Imagine a mid-engined lightweight two-seater roadster with Boxster performance and handling at the price of a well equipped Polo. That's the kind of package we are working on," says Pischetsrieder. That hints at an affordable 15,000 (British pounds) entry price for the as-yet unamed roadster - a package sure to cause headaches for the similarly priced StreetKa, Peugeot 206CC and the Smart Roadster. VW engineers are said to be aiming to keep the curb weight between 600 and 700kg - more than a Caterham Super Seven, but less than a Vauxhall VX220. To reach this target they have opted for a mix of materials for the body and structure: aluminum, magnesium, carbon fiber and high-strength steel. The car will be powered by the 150hp 2.0 liter FSI direct-injection engine that's just been launched in the new Audi A3. It will drive the rear wheels via a six-speed tranny. VW insiders claim the 0-60mph sprint will take just six seconds, and the top speed will be around 150mph - that's deep into VX and Elise performance territory and enough to blitz more mainstream rivals like the Mazda MX-5, Toyota MR2 and MGF. Even so, the VW's fuel consuption could be up to 55mpg - a result of the car's light curb weight and it's engines advanced fuel-injection technology. The VW is said to resemble a downscale version of the stillborn W12-engined Nardo supercar, complete with bold wings and shoulders, truncated rear end and scalloped flanks. The Nardo was shaped by ItalDesign. To keep close eye on cost, the module which secures the engine and tranny on the new roadster is lifted from the Polo - the subframe is mounted behind the rear seats at 180 degrees. This mobility of parts is what Pischetsrieder calls "click tecnology" and it allows different structures from different cars in the VW family to fit together, jig-saw style. VW is serious about the roadster's minimalist nature - there are no plans fit power steering, electric windows or central locking. To trim curb weight further the VW roadster will use a simple manual fabric roof. On the safety front, however, VW will check most of the boxes, fitting four airbags, anti-lock brakes and ESP stability control as standard. The fixed rear roll-over hoop and re-inforced windshield frame are said to be integral parts of the chassis stucture - so along with the full safety package, expect a good crash test result. We understand that one of Pischetsrieder's daughters inspired the roadster concept - she drives a Lotus Elise. ------------ This is a hot design. I do wish that they would produce something along these lines. To me it evokes memories of Karmann Ghias... __________________ I don't care if you are black, white, purple, green, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, hippie, cop, bum, admin, user, English, Irish, French, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, indian, cowboy, tall, short, fat, skinny, emo, punk, mod, rocker, straight, gay, lesbian, jock, nerd, geek, Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Independent, driver, pedestrian, or bicyclist, either you're an asshole or you're not. What's the best nation in the world? DO-NATION!

10-06-2003, 05:44 PM	#2 (permalink)
ARTelevision I change Location: USA	Well as soon as I saw the pics, I thought - Karmann Ghia. Then I got to your last sentence... heh heh yeah. used to have a Ghia...I'd get one of these just for fun. __________________ create evolution

10-06-2003, 06:02 PM	#3 (permalink)
hahaha Insane	That has got to be the prettiest thing Ive ever seen VW release. The only thing I'd change is how the rear end looks, it seems too long, and Im not wild about the tail lights. I would definitly drive it. __________________ "find what's good and make it last" -Bouncing Souls

10-06-2003, 07:58 PM	#5 (permalink)
soccerchamp76 Go Cardinals Location: St. Louis/Cincinnati	Tail lights - good Headlights - bad Needs just a little more juice, it gets 55mpg. If they drop it down to 50mpg they could knock come time off the 0-60 and make it so much better. But this is an awesome car all around. __________________ Brian Griffin: Ah, if my memory serves me, this is the physics department. Chris Griffin: That would explain all the gravity.

10-06-2003, 09:22 PM	#7 (permalink)
89transam Psycho Location: Central California	It says 15000 brittish pounds, and I think thats around 22,500 american. if the specs on that are true, 55 mpg and 6 second 0-60 Im gonna start saving. __________________ I'd rather be rich than stupid.

10-06-2003, 07:41 PM	#4 (permalink)
pepe Addict	Looks good. I'm waiting to see what the R32 that makes it to the US is like though. I've heard it might have a 300hp turbo VR6.

10-06-2003, 08:12 PM	#6 (permalink)
Splice Crazy	This is a sweet car. I wonder how much it's gonna cost.

10-06-2003, 10:32 PM	#8 (permalink)
Peryn Junkie Location: San Diego, CA.	If that price is true....wow. That is a badass looking car, coupled with decent power, should be good handling, and awesome mileage. Im not digging that chrome dash, but i think that is one smooth car. It would give VW a nice kick back into the rear/mid engine and affordable sport market. 700kg...thats what, <2000lbs? If so, wow, 150hp is enough, and this thing should handle something fierce. And that gas mileage....mmp! Think it would mind if i humped the tailpipe? __________________ Dont cry kid, It's not your fault you suck.

10-07-2003, 12:20 AM	#9 (permalink)
Rippley Insane	Looks like a baby Carrera GT, but that, my friends, is an altogether good thing!! Sooo pretty.... __________________ roadrazer - 300kgs, 300hp = pure fun.

10-07-2003, 08:22 AM	#12 (permalink)
Scorps Lost!! Location: Kingston, Ontario	I think the body is ugly but the crome dash is sweet. __________________ A.K.A. PainTrain

10-07-2003, 08:32 AM	#13 (permalink)
WarWagon Loser	I hate the back and the dash/console, but the rest looks ok to me.

10-07-2003, 07:28 PM	#15 (permalink)
DEI37 Go faster! Location: Wisconsin	The interior is fugly, yes...the rest of the car...definitely has potential. Give it another 25hp, you'll lose 2-3mpg, still get better than 50, 175hp, run to 60mph in 5.5. That sounds like a winner. __________________ Generally speaking, if you were to get what you really deserve, you might be unpleasantly surprised.

10-08-2003, 01:55 AM	#18 (permalink)
acpower Crazy	that is sexxxxxxy.. yeah it does look like a carrera gt

10-08-2003, 08:05 AM	#19 (permalink)
iamii Crazy	I really can't wait for this car, nice package probably a cheap price, and I love VW's oh so much

10-08-2003, 08:38 AM	#20 (permalink)
Cynthetiq Tilted Cat Head Administrator Location: Manhattan, NY	IMHO at least it breaks from the bland styling that has become VW. While the Bora/Jetta/Golf/Passat is there, it's along the lines of the Beetle in breaking away from something that looks like the next box next to it. __________________ I don't care if you are black, white, purple, green, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, hippie, cop, bum, admin, user, English, Irish, French, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, indian, cowboy, tall, short, fat, skinny, emo, punk, mod, rocker, straight, gay, lesbian, jock, nerd, geek, Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Independent, driver, pedestrian, or bicyclist, either you're an asshole or you're not. What's the best nation in the world? DO-NATION!

10-08-2003, 11:13 AM	#21 (permalink)
etardedraverboy Insane Location: portland the land of liquid sun shine	i want 1 __________________ vvvvvvvvrrrrrrrrrrroooooooooooooooooooooommmmmm

10-09-2003, 11:24 AM	#24 (permalink)
Sledge Pasture Bedtime	That is sexy. Lust.

10-08-2003, 11:47 PM	#22 (permalink)
madsenj37 Still searching... Location: NorCal For Life	The car will not have both great gas mileage and great acceleration. If it does, that car will be so light that an acorn will be unsafe to run into. __________________ "Only two things are certain: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not certain about the universe." -- Albert Einstein

10-09-2003, 06:24 AM	#23 (permalink)
johan Upright	that is the car I dream off :d

10-09-2003, 02:51 PM	#25 (permalink)
JusticeForPhat Crazy Location: Philly	the price alone makes it a winner, but the 55mpg is the icing on the cake. It will be nice to see more direct injection gasoline engines make it to production.

10-09-2003, 08:43 PM	#26 (permalink)
Stare At The Sun Eh? Location: Somewhere over the rainbow	Very nice, very nice indeed. Didnt think vw could make that sexy of a car

10-11-2003, 09:49 PM	#29 (permalink)
Pragma I am Winter Born Location: Alexandria, VA	Well, it means less to draw off the battery -- other than that, not a lot I don't think. Could be wrong, though. __________________ Eat antimatter, Posleen-boy!

10-13-2003, 05:06 PM	#30 (permalink)
ace81385 Insane	reminds me of a boxster i dont like it

10-14-2003, 08:24 AM	#31 (permalink)
a1t3r3g0 Psycho Location: 127.0.0.1	That is sooooooooooo HOT! And for around mid $20k USD!?! I WANT!

10-22-2003, 09:10 AM	#32 (permalink)
Gnzo Insane	That is hot! I wonder though, if there are any plans on releasing it in the US?

10-22-2003, 04:06 PM	#33 (permalink)
BeBogus Upright	looks a lot like a cross between an Audi TT and a VW Golf.... not a bad thing really but just my opinion

10-23-2003, 04:55 PM	#34 (permalink)
matt_mll Crazy Location: some volcano in the middle of the pacific	I like the white LED headlights. Never need replacement, and bright as hell!

10-23-2003, 05:30 PM	#35 (permalink)
Cycler Float on.... Alright Location: Where the wind comes sweeping down the plains, i.e. Oklahoma	Looks a little like an Audi TT. Cool ride thought and it reminds me of my friends old Ghia as well. __________________ "I'm not even supposed to be here today." "I assure you we're open."

10-25-2003, 03:15 AM	#36 (permalink)
acpower Crazy	i wonder how the sun would look through the chrome dashboard

10-25-2003, 08:47 AM	#37 (permalink)
forseti-6 Existentialist Location: New York City	Looks very nice. I currently have a Jetta, and it has tons of problems, but I just love how VWs handle. Knowing dumbass me, I'll probably buy another VW down the road despite me saying I never would. Anyone see the Phaeton yet? http://www.vw.com/newModels.htm __________________ "Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened." - Dr. Seuss

10-25-2003, 05:12 PM	#39 (permalink)
yellowgowild Psycho Location: Tampa	That car makes love to my eyes, the price makes love to my wallet.

10-25-2003, 09:06 PM	#40 (permalink)
sTghezzo Loser Location: hi	man how wolkswagens have changed over the years. granted this is a nice car, but it really doesnt say "im a volkswagen" when i look at it. More like "Im a porsche". Im glad VW is comin out with some new stuff though. Quite a change from the old type bugs and bajas and busses with the flat 4cylinders