I drew out the torque and HP curves of the 2001 2.4T and the T5 on the same piece of paper. Of course, these are based on optimum octane fuel for each engine.

I was surprised that ( on paper, at least ) the T5 equals the torque of the 2.4T at about 1500 RPM, and rises rapidly above it from there. Although the 2.4T reaches its peak torque at 1800 RPM, the T5 peak torque is so much greater that it is putting out more than the 2.4T even at the lower RPM's.

Further thoughts on this:

* The more high performance tuned an engine is, the more sensitive it is to

being well broken in. The 2.4T may be showing what it has to give

earlier on, while the T5 may require 5,000 - 10,000 miles before it

really starts to show its stuff.

* The T5 is a smaller displacement engine and really needs to be pushed to

feel lively. I don't know about others, but I am reluctant to put this

kind of push on a brand new engine, as you would have to do in a back to

back test drive.

* Then there is the illusive " T5 Upgrade ". who knows what this really

consists of, and what the T5's really consist of that are sitting in

dealer's stocks.

* There is also a psychological factor: When you start out in the T5 your

mind is expecting startling performance, and for the reasons considered

herein, you come away doubly dissapointed.

* Many dealers use " El cheapo " fuel in their new vehicles. The 2.4T can

do pretty well on this, but the T5 ECU is going to rein the overall

performance parameters in when you start pushing it. Couple this with

the other considerations discussed above and you can see how a back to

back test drive of new 2.4T vs T5 vehicles may well leave the T5 not

showing itself too well.