I own a TT 3.2, own a SLK 350, and I owned a Crossfire.
Let's face it, a 3.2 TT is not a TTRS. You will spend more than just ton of money to make it as fast as the actual TTRS.
Couple things I want to express, pick and choose your priority to make sure it fits your preference:
1. The ONLY reason I preferred a 3.2 TT over a TTS is the sound. The VR6 produces MUCH better sound than the I-5 Turbo TTRS and I-4 Turbo TTS. But the TTS and TTRS is easier to tune, and you will spend less time to make the car faster. The VR6 TT will not have too much of a gain unless you put Force Induction into it. (HPA single turbo kit can knock it up to 500HP).
2. The are TWO things I concerned about my TT are: The DSG and the Haldex. My DSG controller (Mechatronics) has been replaced @ 26K miles, and it is still remain questionable if it will break again (more likely will). The DSG & Haldex require attentions of service as well, every 40K mies. DSG will require fluid change sooner than 40K miles. When it comes to Crossfire, the only thing you really need to worry about is the head gasket leak.
3. The ONLY reason I did not keep my Crossfire is interior & features. Let's face it, Crossfire does not have all the nice features that the TT and the SLK offers. The Crossfire cannot compete in this category. Although I feel it's nice that Crossfire offers what it has, but still lacks technology. If you're heavy on those things, you may want to reconsider.
The Pros and Cons:
1. Crossfire in the long run will cause you lest headache, while cars from VAG will cost you a fortune, unless you have all the VAG COM software & cable. (which I spent a fortune upfront) But still, all the Haldex & DSG fluid costs. If the TT is a manual, it will be better.
2. The VR6 TT will pickup faster than a NA Crossfire. However, you have a heavier load to pick up. The VR6 has a nice sound. The DSG IS VERY NICE.
3. In the snow, if the TT is a later model (08, 09), it can transfer up to 100% power to the rear wheels while front wheel lost traction completely. I have had a lot of fun in the snow with the TT being almost a complete rear wheel drive.
4. My TT has the magnetic ride suspension that actively change the suspension stiffness. This is nice. When the sports suspension setting is on, the car handles very nice. As good as the Crossfire can do. If your TT has same thing, I would not hesitate to get your hands on it to give it a try. The down side is, if one of these structs goes, you will have to replace all 4 of them. That goes back to the maintenance cost.
The MOST important thing you have to know
There is nothing wrong with the Crossfire. The maintenance cost is low. Nothing will have to be changed, you can mod it anyway you want to make it the way you like it. The switching to TT is going to cost you dearly.
HOWEVER, it is your choice, and please look into priorities that you care about, what YOU prefer over what others say.
Hope for the best.
Shibing
