New Paseo

April 24, 2004

Hi

Just bought (well 3 weeks ago) a very low mileage Paseo, 1996 with genuine 36,000 miles in purplish blue metallic. Even the spare wheel is brand new and never been out of the car! I don't have air con or ABS but not bothered too much as this only adds weight and potential problems.

Since then I've added new Kayaba gas shocks and H&R springs (30 mm) and 15" OZ superleggeras. I know the fashion is for huge wheels but these are so light in 15" they really help the suspension work well. In fact knocking a few kilos off each corner is the equivelent of losing loads of weight from other areas because it is all unsprung weight loss. This theory I have from motorcycles and it does work for them. Seeing that the Paseo needs a little revving to get it to move then this is as good a performance modification as trying to gain HP with engine work.

Anyway I've booked in for a powerflow stainless exhaust as the only snag with low mileage cars is that exhausts do rot much more quickly than those that perfom higher mileages (and I'm going for a twin exit so it will look better too!!)

Also added Alpine CD changer, head Unit and new Speakers. Thinking about a rear disc conversion next as it is very easy without ABS. Also I like the idea of a front spolier but not sure what looks good yet.

It's weird, I recall seeing the Paseo when it first became available in this country yet although there are a few for sale (many rough ones unfortunately), nobody seems to know what it is or even heard of it. Most think it's a Jap import and I guess if you de-badge it this only adds to the mystery. I also have a very heavily modified VW Scirocco and it's amazing how similar the 2 cars are in terms of suspension set up and size. The Paseo feels a little bit more modern of course but the Scirocco is so fast as it has an Audi 2.0 engine in it.

Simon

April 25, 2004

Welcome to the club Simon. Sounds like you got a real good un there.

I like the choice of wheels too..........glad to see there's at least one other person in the world who likes multispoke wheels rather than the norm (5 spoke.)

Not that there's anything wrong with 5 spokes....before you all start :P

Rich

April 25, 2004

Welcome to the club. :thumbsup:

Nice choice. :)

Si

April 25, 2004

Welcome to the club mate :thumbsup:

You've been busy in the three weeks you've had it :yes: I agree with the choice on wheels, 15" ones on mine and the handling is excellent :thumbsup:

April 25, 2004

Welcome to the club! it does sound like you've been a busy guy, but I must offer a word of advice regarding your exhaust choice. though a twin exit muffler may look the part, it robs your engine of power, because it takes longer for the air to exit both tails as opposed to having one straight flowing exhaust. Just a little heads up! :hokus-pokus: