This week we compare the 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI and a 2010 GTI Mk6 on the track and perform a 0-60 mph test. To make it more interesting, the Mk6 was also modified with COBB Tuning GTI Accessport. How well does the Mk6 GTI match up to the Mk7 GTI before and after being tuned? Watch TFL Leaderboard Hot or Not Episode #4 to learn how much a simple DME flash can improve performance.
On the starting grid is the 2016 Golf GTI (Mk7). This front-wheel drive hot hatch has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder –mated to a 6-speed manual transmission — that develops 210 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The latest generation Golf GTI rides on a sport-tuned suspension and VW’s MQB modular platform, which is lighter and stronger than the previous generation.
The 2009 Mk6 GTI was introduced with slightly sharper styling in comparison with the Mk5 and small refinements throughout made it a great all-around hatchback. Under the hood is a reworked version of VW’s 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI engine that is good for 210 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque from 1,700 to 5,200 rpm according to manufacturer specs.
Before tuning the Mk6 GTI, it was taken to The Boost Creep Ltd in Longmont, Colorado to measure horsepower and torque on the shop’s dynamometer. The testing, done on a cold, dry day revealed a 12 horsepower increase in power after applying the flash upgrade. More interesting was the significant jump in torque of 40 lb-ft after the stage 1 COBB Tuning map was installed. This put the 2010 GTI in the same neighborhood, with regards to horsepower and torque, as the 2016 GTI.
The video will reveal how much performance is improved for the 2010 GTI after comparing lap times and 0-60 times before and after using the COBB Tuning Accessport.
| 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI (Mk7) | 2010 VW Golf GTI (Mk6 before Cobb Tuning) | 2010 VW Golf GTI (Mk6 w/Stage 1 Cobb Tuning) | |
| Engine |
2.0L turbocharged I-4 |
2.0L turbocharged I-4 (EA888) | 2.0L turbocharged I-4 |
| Power | 210 hp @ 4,500 rpm | 190 hp (measured) | 202 hp (measured) |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft @ 1,500 rpm | 200 lb-ft (measured) | 240 lb-ft (measured) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed DSG automatic | 6-speed DSG automatic |
| Curb Weight | 3,031 lbs (4-door) | 2,905 lbs | 2,905 lbs |
