1.8T engines require timing belts every 60k(I work for VW/Audi Service), suffer from sludge issues more then any other brand turbo engine. (Incorrect Oil Volume by design) If tuned you'll be lucky to run it up to 100k miles. With tuning you then have more power that once introduced to the front wheels means low traction...everything has to be planned ...when and where the boost is...Originally Posted by admin
Ok let me answer your question....
R32 in stock form will dyno roughly (200+whp/200+lbs)
1.8t in stock forum will dyno roughly (150-170whp, 160-180lbs)
stock form R32 is faster, but after minor bolt on's the 1.8t will rape a R32. You can't compete w/ the Boost. Now if you spend the money to do a SC or Turbo kit on the R32 you can easily make over 300whp, but then again your talking lots of $$ in mods.
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conclusion: R32: luxury twisty built N/A dub but can be on the pricy side
plug: if your looking for a dub already built i'm getting ready to sell my 4dr 1.8t very soon.
The VR6 is bullit proof and even with boost will run over 200k with no bottom end issues! My last supercharged VR GTI ran to 140k from new for me and then I sold it for 8grand and she is still running strong! There is no way I'm losing 40 hp in the drivetrain, last dyno of my R was 234hp at the wheels. I now have an open exhaust and a turbo will be next! I used to sell VW's and most would end up buying the 1.8T due to pricepoint. Yes you can get bigger HP numbers but FI vs NA is a stupid comparison. I like linear controlled power so I always start with NA engines. The actual Torque band is much more fun in the R then in the 1.8T...it's location on the rpm range suits around town and highway passing dominance/fun. Let's not forget the VR6 makes a special exhaust sound that is very exotic.
VW is the only manufacturer to currently mass produce a narrow angle V configured engine that has staggered cylinder layout with a single head design.(but they are not the first though) Lastly, the R32 is not produced anymore, 1 year run!!!! So you won't run into to many folks that have them until the next version comes out...which will also be a limited run. My sticker was 29,890 and I paid 26,400 and now it's worth 25k or so...got to love it! Buy the R, leave the 1.8T alone...or get the 2.0T which improved on all the mishaps in design that exist with the 1.8T
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) Of course My original point still stands...get a VR and plan to drive it for 200k miles! Now let's see some 1.8T dynos from those who have raped Rs...just so we can decided if there is a bit of exaggeration. Now picture below with another 100HP, yes I do need FI, low easy boost of course. 
