Golf R32 Turbo: the return of a legend at Shiftech Tours

The story begins in the mid-2000s, well before the creation of the Shiftech network as it is today. Médéric's idea was simple: to transplant a supercharged VR6 engine into a Golf IV R32, a rare and ambitious configuration at the time. The block used was a 3.0L turbo, based on the original 3.2L R32 engine, but modified to accept the supercharger.

On the technical side, the engine retained its original crankshaft to ensure fuller torque and smooth running at medium revs. The whole unit was based on a full forged engine: pistons, connecting rods, Supertech valves, reinforced camshafts and a Precision 6766 turbo. when it came out, the car produced between 850 and 1000 bhp, an impressive figure for a car of that era.

This Golf 4 R32 perfectly illustrates Shiftech's philosophy of pushing the limits of performance while respecting mechanical reliability. Engine management was based on an EQ Master EMU ECU, a semi-sequential solution long before modern ECUs. The original 02M manual gearbox had been strengthened and coupled to an AP Racing dual-disc clutch.

The technical challenges were numerous: precise valve timing, maximum rev control and fine boost management. The first versions suffered a few mishaps (dropped valve, scarred cylinder head), but each stage enabled the skills of the Shiftech network to evolve. This project marked a turning point in the understanding of supercharged VR6 engines and laid the foundations for today's preparation standards.

Years later, the R32 resurfaced in the hands of Lucien (Alpha Delta 06), a well-known enthusiast on the motoring scene. After several thousand kilometres, the engine needed a complete rebuild, with rings, bushes, guides and valve seals replaced. It was at this point that it returned to the Shiftech Tours workshops for a complete check-up.

The teams went over every aspect of the engine: checking the timing with a dial indicator, checking the ignition advance and adjusting the supercharger management. The aim was to restore the engine's original full power output while making each component more reliable.

Once the mechanicals had been overhauled, it was time for the power bench. From the very first runs, the R32 showed that it had lost none of its character. The figures speak for themselves:

• 711 bhp at 1.35 bar pressure
• 750 bhp at 1.6 bar
• Up to 980 Nm of torque in the highest boost modes

The measurements confirmed a slight delay in charging due to the old timing, which was quickly corrected by the technicians. The comparison with modern technology is striking: today, Shiftech works with MaxxECU, Syvecs or Motec ECUs, offering precision and stability unattainable at the time. A fine example of the evolution of in-house know-how.

For Médéric, seeing this legendary car back on the Shiftech Tours bench is much more than a simple diagnosis: it's a return to its roots. This R32 represents an era when everything was based on passion, experimentation and the quest for pure performance.

The idea of buying it back and restoring it to its original configuration is already on the drawing board: "Matching numbers, original engine, new bodywork...". A nostalgic project, but also a tribute to the car that forged part of Shiftech's identity.

Since 2008, Shiftech has been developing and optimising its own maps on a power bench. The network now has more than 15 centres in Europe (France, Belgium, Luxembourg and Morocco), all equipped to offer custom engine reprogramming and complete mechanical preparation.

Each project, like this Golf R32 turbo, illustrates the same high standards: measured gains, guaranteed reliability and a 100% technical approach. Whether it's a Stage 1 reprogramming, an E85 conversion or the installation of performance parts, the Shiftech teams put their expertise at the service of enthusiasts.