Originally Posted by
philt
Hi,
Recently became an ST170 ('54 plate) owner and all in quite happy with it except for the performance. I was expecting 170bhp in a relatively small light body to be quite nippy. However, I can't help feeling short changed - the engine seems to be in good health, starts easily, good oil pressure, no smoke / noises etc, but even in 2nd gear does not want to rev beyond 5000rpm. It sounds extremely laboured when pushed hard, even though it does pull well low down. Does this sound "normal"? I understand this engine uses variable valve timing - when does this kick in and do you feel it (as is the case in other cars)?
Cheers,
Phil.
Well from my experience my car feels every bit of 170bhp (or there abouts)
I used to own a civic type r and I'd say the engine in the st170 shares similar characteristics in the way it delivers the power just not as good. Power really comes in around 5k all the way to the redline. I had an audi a3 behind me the other day, don't know what it was but he stuck with me until 3rd gear when I started to pull away, I then pulled in to let him passed before hitting silly speeds. It was the new shape so 2.0T or 3.2v6? The st170 is a great car in my opinion