Skoda Octavia RS Reviews
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“I am now in my second month driving a 40K mile Skoda...”
★★★★☆
written by Paul Smith on 03/12/2004
I am now in my second month driving a 40K mile Skoda Octavia vRS Sports Car. Firstly I am very impressed by the equipment level and the performance. Like everyone else, I had previously assumed this car was a 'poor man's' VW. This is clearly not the case. I would however like to balance the opinion found on this site, as it is sprinkled with statements like, "Blows away BMWs", and similar comments related to silly comparisons with other manufacturers.
I do agree this is a fast car in comparison to it's direct competition in the VW Audi market. It should be put in perspective though. I have also owned BMW's of various engine sizes and specs, and the RS would only be quicker than the smaller engined cars, or some of the heavy 5 and 7 series cars with 2.5 or less engines. A standard 325 would embarrass the skoda in accelaration, and make it look silly if the road has bends to negotiate. The turbo lag on the RS prevents smooth gear changing when driving with enthusiasm. This spoils any driver satisfaction. Likewise the handling is firm with little roll and is better than average but lacks a real driver feedback. Overall, I do like this car. It is economical and easy to drive. The performance is very good and the torque provided by the turbo is exceptional. But it is not a BMW and should not be campared with one. It is a different class altogether. Having said all this, it is HALF the price of the BMW so who cares!
Only faults have been, Cruise control failed (micro switch changed under warranty). Electric Door mirrors need sorting out. (When using right hand switch, both sides move). Inherent fault with water running into the boot when tailgate opened.
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“Bought my Skoda Octavia RS to travel,(from Nottingham...”
★★★★☆
written by nottinghamrob on 04/03/2004
Bought my Skoda Octavia RS to travel,(from Nottingham to Aberdeen, and back) for my work as an oilrigger. An average of 425 miles each way. My RS and I know each other well now, but unlike my other girlfriend, she doesn't go into a big sulk when I put my foot down!
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“I have owned my Skoda Octavia RS for 2 Weeks. It is...”
★★★★☆
written by Steve. on 23/02/2002
I have owned my Skoda Octavia RS for 2 Weeks. It is due for its second visit back to the dealers for :-
Rear screen replacement (faulty demisting element),
Electronic management light on dash,
Engine misfire when cold,
Sounds like a diesel when started from cold (when heard from the outside).
Are you sure this is a good car?
Lenny Henry.'s Response to 13667_Steve.'s Review
Written on: 18/03/2002
Having just ordered my VRS your comments are interesting, after an hour long test drive, I found it as much fun to drive as my outgoing SAAB 2.3 turbo... it started fine, was very quiet and went round some twisty back roads, although not as quick as the SAAB i'm sure it will be after the chip replacement. the plus is the 10 grand saving...insurance £300 cheaper. nuf said, i await delivery in two weeks.
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Safedrive.'s Response to 13667_Steve.'s Review
Written on: 01/02/2003
I have had my VRS now for 11 months. I had a coil go, shortly after it's 20K service. This made the car sound like it was firing on 3 cylinders. Coil was replaced under warranty and she's running like a dream. Best car I've owned.
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20739_Biyoushi.'s Response to 13667_Steve.'s Review
Written on: 22/04/2002
Dibbly - I have owned an Audi with the same engine and guess what? It does exactly the same! Overall the cars are on par with each other - though the extra clock in the TT is a bonus. Also, I have been told the 'tapping' noise is due to the oil pressure building in the Cam Department. It wasn't a critism, merely a comment! I've had my car 8 weeks now and covered 7,500 miles without a single fault - I am besotted by the car - they are Superb (Skoda's new model due over here soon!!! Watch out VW Passat... you're gonna loose some market share - and before anyone passes comment, I know Skoda are owned by VW!!
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20139_Lenny Henry.'s Response to 13667_Steve.'s Review
Written on: 19/04/2002
Well, one week after delivery I have to say that I'm impressed, total milage to date is 975 and the only thing i can find to moan about so far is the silly bonnet catch....this part could be a bit more substantial but overall the car is quick, the lack of turbo lag is good. Am having the front mudflaps fitted on Monday, can't understand how i missed that they were not fitted as standard! I have been listening for the knocking on startup, but so far this has not shown up (early days perhaps). Also I could do with a seperate clock somewhere!!!
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19855_Dibbly.'s Response to 13667_Steve.'s Review
Written on: 17/04/2002
Buy an Audi then, same engine, probably the same problems, but pay a lot more, you got a duffer, it happens, complain like hell and any half decent Skoda dealer will ensure all your problems are sorted.
<br>It is a damm good car!
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16342_Www.stevesalf.co.uk.'s Response to 13667_Steve.'s Review
Written on: 19/03/2002
Mine sounds like a diesel too from the inside when starting from cold... it is slightly off putting!! Shame about the faults... I'm sure Skoda will sort it with the minimum of fuss. If you think thats a BAD car see my site www.stevesalf.co.uk and have a look at Citroen C5 woes!!! Thats bad!!!
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Gareth Richmond's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 09/12/2004
There isn't a problem with your door mirrors this is a VW group 'comfort feature', it is supposed to save time or something like that. My RS did it my girlfriends Golf did it, my brothers A3 does it and so does his wifes Leon. I recantly bought a Superb 1.9TDI and guess what - that does it too. It's not a fault, but it is a problem. Sorry, have to disagree with a 325 'embarrasing' an RS, a 330 definatley but the RS will give a 325 a pretty good run for its money, belive me i've been there and done it many times.
350778_Baz1984's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 10/03/2008
My rs has developed a rattle but its on the exhaust system underneath the car but I have heard the is some sort of baffle system that regulates air flow between turbo and exhaust and somehow this can fail and result in your rs sounding like a bus at tick over! Anyone got any ideas?
Garethrichmond's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 10/01/2008
This thread was based on the old 1.8T Octavia. The New 2.0T Octavia will stay with an ST220 quite easily, and neither will give a 330 'a really good humiliating seeing to'!
<br/>
<br/>Mid range on the Mk 2 Octavia is massively better than the Mk 1, I know as I have owned both. The power delivery between the new Octavia and the ST220 is the only real difference, Both are too similar 0-100+ to tell them apart.
Taylos409's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 10/01/2008
it wasn't so long back people would laugh at the name Skodam - how times have changed! But not all things have changed, in response to 6always we can still say 'but it's still a MONDEO!'
6Always's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 28/12/2007
The Skoda is quick and good for lazy mid-revs use but will never compete with a mondeo st220, which is a lot faster than previous mondeo V6s, they are very rapid especially 50mph plus and the st220 can give a 330i a really good humiliating seeing-to so if you can 'just' match a 330i you will definitely not keep up with the Mondeo!
Rcann's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 12/04/2006
I agree. The Type R is probably quicker and nimbler, but has to be worked hard to be so. The vRS has massive torque from 2000rpm so is very quick when you need it on normal roads. Overtaking in particular is quite amazing in any gear. Once you've added the practicality to the equation, I would have the vRS everytime. Had mine almost 4 years and 60,000 miles and it still thrills be (especially when overtaking). Another point to remember is that when you have got used to the performance and you want a bit more, just get a remap. I had mine done a year ago. 228bhp and 340nm from 2500 to 5500rpm makes it awesome for everyday driving. It's still absolutely reliable. Just remember to tell your insurance company!
Garethrichmond's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 12/04/2006
Hello Robert, The Civic feels quicker and more nimble - although they are very even, though a few people have said it's a bit too hard to live with day to day (in the same way that an Evo/Impreza is). The RS is plenty quick enough for any driver! Plus it has the bonus of being practical, roomy and comfortable, though is fun when you want it to be. If had the choice again I would still go for the RS. I've driven the new RS and still prefer the older one - it's all the car you'll ever need, without paying prestige prices.
232745_Robert Bennett's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 05/03/2006
hello all, had an octavia laurin and klement tdi 130bhp for year was a nice drive good torque never had a problem with water in the boot is it a different design thinking of buying a 03 vrs just wondering is it that much quicker im 21 havent that much experience would a civic type r be better
219950_Perklopse's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 07/12/2005
Regarding the entry on 01/02/2005 noisy rear brakes when reversing, just had a new brake pads fitted with balancing weights to trial from skoda to try and resolve this problem, no noise when reversing so far touch wood.
<br>
<br>Fitted at Mitchels Skoda at Cheshire Oaks, Ellesmere Port. Customer Service second to none internet access while I waited free coffee and snacks, nothing to much trouble, I wonder if you would get that with a BM dealership !!!!!
Jon071167's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 12/07/2005
Briefly, the wing mirrors do not need fixing, when adjusting the drivers mirror the passenger mirror moves also, this is common to all VAG cars. no its not a BMW but take it from me, both myself and a colleague have both been able to show 330ci's the way when it comes to straight line acceleration, once in third the skoda pulls away. i agree though with the handling on the twisty stuff, but its half the price of a 330.
Andytt's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 27/06/2005
Tayloos, your problem is that you drive too damn fast, on the autobhan......you should get an M3 that will slow you down during your daily commute..................smile
<br>No problem with bonnet lifting at speed even flat out on the autobahn...........:)
Taylos409's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 27/06/2005
Not had any problems with noise between 100 and 110 (on the autobahn too of course!) but have same problems with rear windows when open at 50+. Feels like your eardrums are going to burst! Still concerned about the bonnet on mine. Garage said because catch is centrally located there will be movements on the sides. Thought all were centrally located and ive never had problems in previous cars when driven at speed. Not convinced it should lift by what looks like an inch and seems to flap about a lot. Would be reassuring if others drivers had noticed this.
<br>
<br>Well it's that time of the year again when it takes 2 hours every sunday morning to get the flies of the front bumper.......
Jazzrs360's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 21/06/2005
Can't agree with you enough Derek. It isn't perfect but the RS is definetely a good fighter against 325i and 330i BMW's and so on as you have proven. However, I now fear that the 330i will now be quicker as the new 2005 model is launched with even more performance then the last one.
However, with the new Skoda Octavia proving it's worth (already winning a What Car award), we all can expect, with some luck, a cracking new RS which should close the gap once again. Look forward to it...
Gareth Richmond's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 20/06/2005
Ps: where is your 'force' Derek, you know just incase as RS is closing us down at speed...........
Gareth Richmond's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 20/06/2005
Well, you can't argue with the law can you! Thanks Derek
Derek Hearn's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 16/06/2005
guys, I would like to add something. I have owned my car for nearly 3yrs on a 52plate. I brought the car after driving it on a police driving course(yes i am a cop). I took it across to germany along the autobahn and it cruised along like a scud missle at 145mph without causing me any alarm. one point i would like to raise is that at 100mph it goes through some noise barrier, shaking thing but on reaching 110 it goes away again, anyone else get that?, also, on opening a rear window at 50/60, it feels like the rear window is going to blow out.
<br>All the reviews on here are about Skoda v BMW and whose the fastest, which drivers got more bottle. I raced mine against our area response car, police car, Bmw 330, being driven by an experienced advanced police driver, there was hardly anything in it! Our force are using the skoda as unmarked traffic cars, our firearms units use them, we are changing the area cars to the Vrs, better for in and around towns, chasing vehicles, and the cost. Why pay £30k plus for something you can get for less than half that price that does in my opinion a better job.
Gareth Richmond's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 03/05/2005
I wonder if performance VW's, Audi's and Seat's have the same problem considering it is the same brake set up or could it be that the open design of thw vRS wheels means they are more prone to wet roads?
Paul Smith's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 28/04/2005
rcann, someone who talks sense. Yes water can be a problem on some other cars. But the Skoda problem IS now a known problem and this is why. Almost any car will have a delay in brake response if the discs and pads are drenched, ie having driven through a flood or a ford for example. However if they are working correctly normal rain soaked roads are not a problem because the disc is spinning against the pads which are actual touching, very lightly but touching. So unless you actually drive under water as described earlier the brake should respond within a full turn of the wheel. One wheel turn at 70mph is so fast a delay will not be noticed. On the Skoda however my local garage were able to insert a 10 thou feeler gauge between each pad and the disc 5 minutes after applying the brake.
<br>
<br>So it appears the problem lies in the pads retracting slowly away from the disc rather than lightly touching as they should do. Water builds up and I recon it takes possibly 10 revolutions to dry the disc on application.
Rcann's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 27/04/2005
I agree with Jazz. I have come up against several 330's, that were in the mood to have a go, over my 3 years of owning my vRS and none of them got away. I believe the 330 is a good match for the vRS!
<br>On the subject of the brakes, as it has been rather stormy of late, and having driven through a few of them (storms that is), I too have witnessed a delay of perhaps a quarter to a half a second when applying the middle peddle. This is surely normal? I have driven quite a number of cars over the past 23 years and seem to remember that this is common in all. Simple common since that when the disks get soaked, the pads need to clear the water before they make contact. I understand that BMW are about to introduce a new system which actually lightly applies the brakes periodically when it is wet to wipe away the water. That said, even BMW recognises the phenomenon. Can't blame Skoda for that.
<br>Reference the bonnet catch - mine is fine!
<br>Reference the tailgate dumping water into the boot - well yes, bloody stupid if you ask me, but someone did tell me that a 3 series coupe does exactly the same thing (bootlid rather than tailgate of course)!
Jazzrs360's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 26/04/2005
More reasons why the good old RS (or vRS if thats what you lot want to call it)is a sensible choice and can stand up to Beemers and the like.
<br>Recently met with some old friends with our motors. One had a 2004 330i touring, the other a Mondeo V6 Zetec and the other an immature dude with his tarted up Clio 172. After a brief chit chat, we were naturally going to do some commenting on each other's vehicles. On looks we all agreed that the Skoda was classy (well, its black) but slightly predictable for a sporting family vehicle. The Ford was sensible but even with Matt's 17" OZ wheels, it still didn't give out the sporty vibes. The Clio with the body kit and neons...well, we all agreed that end of the day, kids will be kids. On the road John led the way with his 330i. Now I know its an estate, and maybe thats partly why I could comfortably keep with him in the bends even on the greasy lanes, while the poor Clio was stuck behind Matt's Mondeo, which I'll admit, wasn't all THAT far behind us, but enough to make me grin. At the bar I had a little spin in the Clio- very sharp and hugely nimble, but, and this is surprising as its so small, it didn't feel like it had the punch of the Skoda. I didn't get to drive the 330i as I needed to...retire for a bit (damn it) but John took the Skoda out while I was in the bog and reported back later that although it sounded quite tame, it did feel as quick as his 330i and as nimble provided you keep the Turbo in use. Driving the Mondeo V6 2.5 was actually quite nice- I liked its ride and it felt quite plush, but it's speed was no where near any of the rest of ours. Ben (Clio driver) liked my Skoda alot and offered to swap cars. I laughed in his face.
<br>So after a fun-filled day, we all agreed that the 330i was probably th best car allround, the Mondeo was a decent drive and very grown up and the Skoda was a bit of a Jackyl and Hide- relaxed and mature at low speed but potentially a rapid sprinter otherwise. The Clio was just so much fun, but reports of reliability and the fact that my boyish friend has made it look like a boy-racer's work box means that it was given the thumbs up only to a certain extent by me and by the others. I then overtook John, on the otherside of a mild hairpin in his 330i Touring with my Skoda on the way back to my house when he wasn't expecting it just to rub it in. He flashed me and tried hard, but behind is where he stayed. Update- RS needs new brakes but aside from that, its been sound, and returns around 38 mpg combined, which blew the grin off Johns face. Game, set, match.
Paul Smith's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 26/04/2005
Amazingly both my RS and a second one (year newer) both owned by my company, had equaly dangerous brakes in the wet. Even more incredibly another RS owner on this forum also has the problem. Now I consider this to be a very serious fault. I can't think of anything more serious in fact. Anyone owning an RS should be aware of potential fault which could kill them or someone else. The purpose of this place is to review products. If you only wish to see positive comments then you are looking in the wrong place. But the fact my bonnet did not open at speed is positive is it not. Slightly puzzled about your engine blowing up comment.
Gareth Richmond's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 22/04/2005
Paul Smith - I think you have a love for the vRS but just can't bare to admit it. At least it's only bushes that went at 50'000 miles not an engine like in the M3. With regard to the brakes for every 1 person you find who has had a problem there will be 100's that haven't, remember all cars have problems as they are a manufactured good. We like our vRS's and as a previous comment said we have chose them over other cars, so please stop the negative posting, post something constructive rather than critical or post nothing at all.
Paul Smith's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 21/04/2005
No bonnet lifting. But have had the following problems:-
<br>Brakes dangerous when wet.
<br>Rear brakes bind and make noise when reversing.
<br>Roll bar bushes fell apart at 50K.
<br>Air bag warning light keeps coming on, then gets reset at service.
<br>Front subframe moved sideways(common apparently) making camber geometry unsettable until dealer reset position.
<br>
<br>All the above have also been experienced on a collegues RS except the roll bar bushes, but he only did 40K. Both cars are now gone thank god!
Taylos409's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 21/04/2005
Still in an interesting debate going on then here :)
<br>
<br>Anyone had any problems with their bonnet lifting at high speed ? I've had mine in 3 times and they have adjusted the catch but i still have problem. The catch seems pretty flimsy. Garages say they can only test up to 70mph
<br>
<br>On 25,000 miles now and that's only problem i've had except the bloody water running in the boot and speakers after its rained........
Paul Smith's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 29/03/2005
Am I missing something here?? What on earth was that comment about? Who is trying to cover up their identity and why whould they? Could it be a reference to BOB & ME being the same person? Nothing underhand just a cockup registering. I would be quite happy to use my own name as I am sure you would. As far as drag racing times are concerned, who cares, my critisism was the Skoda's handling and stopping performance not how quick it could do a quarter mile. Oh and BMW rear their head again!! Do you compile spreadsheets of facts and figures from motoring magazines. I bet you do. The rest of your comment/rant is not clear as to what you are driving at or the point you are making. I thought this was a RS review? Calm down and stop being so offended by people making constructive and factual comments about the car which should be the subject of this review. Finally you should be aware that regional police forces swap their unmarked cars around so Wiltshire may be using other vehicles now. They may even be Skoda RS's who knows?
Gareth Richmond's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 29/03/2005
For various reasons (mainly work) I have spent most of my time in a Superb Tdi-130 (wonderfull motorway car) latley, however I did climb back into the drivers seat of a vRS last week and within seconds I recalled why my three years of owning one were so enjoyable. Always was a great car, always will be. I must write to the Met Police at some point and tell them who ever they get to do their car tests are wrong because according to their tests the vRS has the best brakes in class!!! Hence the reason so many forces around the country are using them as both marked and unmarked high speed pursuit cars. In three years I never had any issues with brakes, either in the wet or dry, and everybody who drove it said the brakes were A1, including a few guys who spend their days on very fast bikes and know a thing or two about stopping power. When I got back into a vRS the most striking thing was......... the brakes. I had a drive of a VW Golf R32 recently, there was nothing in it between that and the Octavia. May go for the vRs Estate next, that would annoy people - being out done by a Skoda Waggon!
Andytt's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 24/03/2005
Well, well, well, isn't it interesting how the anonymity of the internet produces a number of different aliases, it is obvious who is who though.
<br>JazzRS360 you are preaching to the converted there is only ONE person on this thread who cannot understand what standard VRS's can do to BM's, he is guilty of badge engineering and drives a N/A VRS badged Octavia, we all know who this is don't we.
<br>I would just like to add that I am in total agreement with your findings, they have been proved in the mags and it is official that the VRS is as fast as a 330, no pub talk in the world can refute that, especially when everybody else who owns turbocharged ones can back this up from experience.
<br>Besides my car at a well run in 98,000miles proved last weekend at the Pod that it can run faster than even Autocar's new one that ran a 15.4 sec quarter mile, I posted a 15.1 second run @ 92mph, a modified M3 evo with supposedly 350bhp ran 14.2 secs @ 95mph go figure. Oh and by the way my mildly modified 944 silver Rose ran 13.3 @ 107, which incidentally destroys M3's and M5's and M1's in fact every generation of every half decent M car ever made around both Oulton Park and Goodwood, again various road and track tests have proved that when the going gets tough the so called Motorsport BM's cannot compete against the likes of Automatic Supras, 968's and the like never mind a turbo 944 that one should remember is up to 17 years older. Even my nearly standard 260Z has pulverised an E30 M3 around Goodwood.
<br>One should not be mesmerised by all the M tec hype, we should remember how Audi V8's pulverised the Shnitzer prepared M3's in the German touring car championships.
<br>On the twisty bits the Skoda is as fast as its traction control will allow, with this switched off an M3 will not see which way you went on a twisty wet road PERIOD. You don't get roads with any more twisty bits than the POD - M1.
<br>And by the way a Lexus SC430 that is supposed to be limited to 155mph cannot live with the Skoda at very high speed, as witnessed by Wiltshire police, they drive navy blue Lexus GS 430's up and down the M4, very unmarked, so beware!
<br>Evo 8's have been known to be taken by surprise by the performance of the Skoda.
<br> <br>All in all owners of some very fast cars have the utmost respect for the capabilities of the Skoda, except that is for a certain somebody around here, who has a penchant for aliases and drives a non turbo VRS, and believes that cars notorious for terminal engine failures at 40000miles are better quality than a Skoda.
Paul Smith's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 24/03/2005
In answer to Jaz... I agree with almost all you say but.... To be fair handling should not be compared with the Vectra. That car has a legacy of bad handling (apart from some SRi models) but it should be remembered that despite my earlier critism of the RS, it is a fast car and should have brakes and handling to suit. It has neither. When dry the brakes are OK but get them wet and it's a different story. In this day and age rain should not effect any brake system, let alone a 140mph+ car. As I said in my original review the handling is OK but not good and not equal to the performance. So I may have exagerated saying a garden shed, but I still stick by my comments.
Jazzrs360's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 23/03/2005
With all due respect to what Andytt said, he is right, at 15k there is a huge selection of fast cars and most of us here have chosen the Skoda Octavia vRS because we were most impressed with it. I for one test drove a brand new Subaru Impreza 2.0 WRX (£20k) when I wanted to buy a new performance car, the Scooby's ride wasn't to my taste and although it was seriously quick, I did't feel like it was the car I could comofrtably live with. The vRS on the other hand, was calm and civil when you needed it to be, but it was also fast and effective. It's ride was a lot better then the Scoobys, and fine, I admit it wasn't quite as fast, but it was right behind. So I signed the order form and left the Skoda dealer a happy man! Of course the Skoda won't handle quite as well as a BMW 3, but trust me, if you say it handles like a garden shed, take my advice: Drive a new VECTRA SRI 2.2i which retails at almost £20k (I drove one as a courtesy car by my insurance) and you will truly find out what a garden shed feels like! Climbing back into the vRS felt like climbing back into a proper sporting car, not some pretentious, bulky and sliggish machine which costs 5k more!
Jazzrs360's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 15/03/2005
I think you judge the RS a little harshly. I have covered over 50k miles in my 2001 model and let me tell you, anything slower then a 330i has NOT beaten me. After around 40000 miles, it really did begin to feel like a true sprinter. Maybe it is because I am so used to the RS I am able to change the gears perfectly, but on occassions I have out-raced a 328i Sport as well as a new Merc SL350 (yes, really!). And besides that, the RS costs a mere £15k, so it isn't really fair compare this to a BMW. To be fair, a close call would be an Impreza WRX Sportwagon, as I found out last week. The Scooby, a 98 model, began to pull away from me at lower speeds as my wheels spun, but astonishingly, and I do not lie about these things, I managed to catch it up and pass it. My advice, allow the engine to run in enough, feed it super-unleaded and you'll notice that it really does become a force to be reckoned with. ;)
Keith Smith's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 14/02/2005
Don't get me started on S types, or should I say Ford Mondeo with a wood dash!!! Now that's one car that the Skoda can compete with in every performance category.
Gareth Richmond's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 09/02/2005
Keith, you are right on the money. This started out as a 325 V RS in terms of straight line performance, as I stated in my first comment the RS would give the 325 a good run for its money, you seem to have proved this to be true. as for handling I don't think there are many every day cars that will out handle a 3 series (I've driven a Jag X Type, for simlilar money to a 3 series it's not in the same league). Most RS owners will be basing there experiances on Motorway runs, therefore no bendy bits, and as your track day proves they are vary similar. After months of debate we seem to have all found a common agreement, though if we were down the pub it would have been sorted in a few hours!!! what shall we discuss next......................
Gareth Richmond's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 09/02/2005
Paul, an amicable end to an interesting debate.
Rcann's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 08/02/2005
A final comment from me too. I must say it is nice now that things have calmed down - thank you Peter. I think that owners of Seat Cupras do have similar experiences and make similar claims/comments - just not in Skoda vRS forums. The basic principle here is that we have been making arguments between BMW 3 series (325 to 330 and even M3) and Skoda Octavia vRS simply because they are essentially very similar. The fact that such an arguament can be sustained is credit in itself to the Skoda. Remember that the Skoda is probably nearly half the cost of a 'comparable' BMW. I love the fact that it will keep with a 330 in most situations and that it has a Skoda badge.
<br>Finally, I would like to point out that Paul's scores for Performance (5/10), Practicality (3/10)and Reliability (3/10)appear rather harsh.
<br>On the performance side, I agree with what has been written before in this thread - where else can you get sub seven seconds and 146mph for less than 15k (+ with 5 seats and 4 doors)?
<br>For practicality, where else can you get 5 people in the car and your washing machine in the boot without folding the rear seat down (I've done it! - don't ask why). Reliability - apart from the stupid coil packs, they don't go wrong. At 42k miles, mine has been faultless.
<br>Thanks all for a stimulating debate and continue to enjoy your vRS'.
Keith Smith's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 08/02/2005
What a great spat!
<br>I think I can put all these arguments to bed with my own experience at the end of 2004 at a great track day at Donnington Park.
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<br>First of all I am the owner of a M3 (sorry Skoda owners). Myself and a friend attended the track day to have a day of blatting around the track without worrying about Mr Plod or his cameras. Now my friend and work collegue (Martin) has an RS Skoda, we both turned up with our respective cars. We also met John Locke at the circuit with his 325 BMW. Soon we were all firm buddies and were racing, sorry, testing our cars and comparing them.
<br>The Skoda RS had a set of Yokohama tyres (on track day wheels) fitted prior to going on track. Other than tyres the car was totaly standard.
<br>The 325 had standard sized Continental tyres, otherwise standard.
<br>During the day we all drove one anothers cars also. To start with let's remove my own M3 from this comparison, because I am sure nobody doubts this realy is in a different league from the 325 and RS from a performance point of view, and demonstrated this on the day. To scotch arguments regarding comparitive performances, we all (3 of us)discussed and agree with the facts I am about to detail here. They are fact and I think a very good comparison.
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<br>Firstly it was a warm day 23C so the skoda was not as fast as it could have been. However I (we) think the turbo is a fairly mild unit and not so effected by air temperature. We found that on the non bendy bits, the RS would indead stay with the 325 but could not pull away. When the BMW was behind and slipstreaming, it could pull out and get almost but not completely past the RS. The other way around the RS could NOT make progress on the 325 when trying to pass although it could stay with it. So from a power point of view there is very little between them. It seemed the RS WAS quicker accelerating below 60mph, but it was very marginal. Above 60mph the 325 was slightly quicker but these observations may be down to ratios etc. Once the 2 cars entered bends however it was a different story. If the RS was on the bumper of the 325 entering a bend, it would be 5 or 6 lengths behind by the exit. The RS just CAN'T handle or brake like the 325. For example, after 2 or 3 quick laps the 325 could outbrake the RS by 20 or 30 metres!! Also it could carry at least an extra 10mph through the bend. If they were racing for real, the RS would be (at Donnington) about 10 seconds slower a lap. In a real 12 lap race it would be on the point of being lapped
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<br>OK. don't get me wrong. We all had a very high respect regarding the RS performance, we all had a go in the RS, but sorry guys, Paul Smith was right, it is not in the same class.
Paul Smith's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 07/02/2005
In reply to Gareth Richmond. I was about to reply desputing I said the RS was rubbish. However looking back I see one of my comparisons DID make that comment. Obviously you are right, is clearly is not rubbish and my only defence is the level of emotional rebuffs was at it's height then. Up until that point I was not realy knocking the Skoda but rather the boy racer comments comparing with other manufactures. What began as a sensible and balanced review degenerated into a school playgrond argument. Peter was right in pointing out the purpose of this site. I even noticed some of my comments had been sensored (by Peter presumably) so I was not blameless either. So this is realy my very last reply/comment and I love my RS!!
Entonox's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 06/02/2005
This is far and away the most entertaining thread on the site - well done all contributers - boo to the comment police, but i suppose meeting up will only result in some 2fast 2furious type action....
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<br>As for me I've been looking all over for a car to bring a smile to my face after 2 years of 3 series/A4 boredom.
<br>The result of my research is a 53 plate vRS 7000 miles in silver for £11K. I've gone for an Estate to stop the water problem and keep the family trips stress free!:-)
<br>New stereo is on order and I'm considering a switchable chip for BM baiting (my mate's M3 for a start - can't wait).
<br>I'll be keeping an eye out for those coil failures that 2 or 3 of the 92 reviwers have mentioned, and by the way the key for me was the guy in this thread who appears to own fast cars by the dozen and drives them all for fun. He clearly loves the vRS, and to me that says it all.... If you can buy every car (and he has), get this one and you will not be disappointed, in fact you will grin from ear to ear.
Paul Smith's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 04/02/2005
Just seen Peter's comment so I guess the grand prix is canceled. Anyway just to answer Andytt and the bit in his comment about company cars. My RS is my property not a company car. Also all my past BMW's (2) have been mine also. The new M3 will be a company car although I own the company. Primarily the RS is used for towing our VW Golf racing car to circuits across the UK for which it is good particularly with it's high torque. Finally,... and this will be my last comment, all my replies are aimed at the Skoda owners who exagerate it's capabilities simply because it's a SKODA. It realy is a good car, but so are most other cars nowadays. I think there are about 4 other models across the VAG range with identical engines. Why don't their owners write about 'blowing away BMWs'?
121621_Peter25's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 04/02/2005
It's been fun reading all the comments on this review but I think we've got to cool it down a little - its my job to look after comments and reviews in the car section of Review Centre and I'm going to have to get a little stricter. I wont be able to approve any more comments that talk about meeting up (it wouldn't look great if something went wrong) :-) I'm all for you discussing the good and points of the car but if I think a comment is a bit too aggressive I cant put it up, Review Centre is a place where people can chat and discuss in a friendly environment and we don't want to scare off any new users. I wont be closing this thread so you can still keep posting, if you want to, but lets remember everyone is allowed their opinion and we should all try our best to respect it. Peter
Gareth Richmond's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 04/02/2005
Never has a car devided opinion so much, I just can't wait to hear the next comment. Paul/Bob or who ever you are, I assume the RS is just a stop gap until you get your M3, if so why didn't you get one of your beloved 3 Series instead. This is about perfomance per pound, it's not fair that you label a £14,000 car with such good performance 'rubbish'. Of course the 3 series has better build quality etc, it should do it's more expensive. Plus remember Skoda have only been doing this seriously for 5 years, BMW have a big head start on them. Let's look at what you get from BMW for £14,000, erm....... that's right - NOTHING! Let alone Sub 7 sec 0-60, 146mph, leather, air con, traction, electric everything.........the list goes on!!!
<br>PS: The new RS will have the same engine as the new Golf GTI, though it may be put up to 225 bhp, thus settling this argument once and for all.
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<br>PPS: Paul, enjoy your M3, now that is a car we all agree is great. Though, I hope you've been paying attention to the stories of engines blowing up after 40,000 miles. See Even BMW have there faults, just that at £40,000 you expect them less!
Paul Smith's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 03/02/2005
Lets do it!! Brilliant idea.. What a conclusion to a simple review. Who will captain the Skoda anoraks team? I suggest the best test would be a quarter mile. That way no speedos are involved (which on my Skoda is 5mph fast at 80 and 8mph fast at 100 according to my GPS, could explain alot!) the first across the line. I can borrow my old E46 328 sports coupe (auto, but using the sport setting). This weekend would suit the Skoda due to cold temps giving that extra bit of HP, not so critical on the BMW as it does not need a turbo. I think the older 328 is about the same BHP as the later 325 so it should be a good test. Result to be posted here.
Andytt's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 03/02/2005
rcan, you are preaching to the converted, you will only be wasting petrol dealing with the 325, best save it for more serious cars. Matey smith is now having a go at diesels he does't seem to realise that the most widely aclaimed of his beloved BMW's are now diesels, and VW group diesels are among the best in the world.
Andytt's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 03/02/2005
Now Paul Smith, Bob with Skoda or whatever your name is, I have read about 92 postings from real enthusiasts who have the utmost respect for the VRS, they have like myself driven one for more than the 3 months you seem to have.
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<br>I dont like the way you look down your nose at Skoda owners who you seem to think have just graduated from 1.6 Vectra’s or Mondeo’s. I have read enough drivel on the various pages of this forum and refuse to tolerate it any longer.
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<br>Take it from me mate, most of us own our VRS's by choice, you will probably find most of the contributors on this forum could own a new BMW M3 if they wanted, it appears you have no choice in the matter you have fallen into one by accident (company car pool) on your way to a used 318 compact, but due to an ignorant and childlike fascination with BMW's cannot accept the facts as they stare you in the face.
<br>You do not deserve to drive such a fine car as the VRS, and you talk of me getting the Skoda induced chip off (not 'of') my shoulder
<br> <br>I bought mine on my way to buying a late £30,000 M3 convertible for a friend, we were so impressed with the dusty but serious looking Skoda in the corner of the dealers yard that we went for a test drive, and ended up buying the Skoda instead, my friend felt so shortchanged by what he felt he was buying in the BMW V the 5K Skoda that he ended up buying a lhd 996 a few weeks later, he hasn’t stopped grinning since and neither have I. You see being a car enthusiast, even though I did not need yet another car I could not resist the VRS at 5K, probably the best value performance car I have ever bought other than a Chevy engined 280ZX I bought in my youth for 1K.
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<br>You are clearly a BMW badge snob, and obviously not a car enthusiast, after all which serious driver drives an automatic 3 series, as you were foolish enough to admit.
<br>I hate to burst your bubble old chap, but you clearly have no idea what a real CAR is all about, you have made patronising comments about the Octavia RS and you have been even more patronising of the many enthusiastic VRS owners found on this site.
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<br>You claim 0-100 is more meaningful, I wonder what edition of EVO you found that in, well I posted the 0-100 of the Skoda V BMW 330, what more do you want, I see you do not mention the 60-0 times of the VRS that are on par with the latest M3.
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<br>My dear beloved 240Z equipped with triple 40 Webbers regularly LAPS BMW E30 M3’s round Goodwood, I think the Skoda might also, and I speak with a lot of racing experience.
<br>Skoda (on their own), VW and Audi has a pedigree in the world of rallying, BMW doesn’t
<br>Audi V8’s of which I happen to still own one were notorious for thrashing BMW’s in German Touring car racing, in the late 80’s early 90’s, again giving Skoda a racing pedigree on two fronts, firstly the original Skoda rally cars and now in sharing platforms with said VW/Audi, Skoda even went one better for us and braced our (VRS) rear suspension struts, racing experience and pedigree backed up by more R&D in the form of VW parts bin. (Yes that is what those triangulated bars in the boot are for)
<br>I have had the privilege to own more different serious performance cars than you have had BMW’s, and probably hot dinners, let me put your so called M3 in perspective, in 1996 I had a number of races with a friend who had a BMW M3 Evo with my 300zxtt (which I still own) the Nissan was bog standard at the time and it beat the M3 by about three car lengths to well over 120mph (on the German autobahns of course) after which my friend bottled out as he had just bought the car and claimed it was not as stable at speed as his Audi A8, yes an Audi which happens to share its gene pool with the Skoda. We were both of the conclusion that the 300zx was marginally faster, we then went to Santa Pod a few weeks later, the Nissan did the standing ¼ mile (a much better indication of a cars straight line performance than 0-100 ) in 14.1 secs opposed to the BMW’s 14.4 secs, and another friends NSX 14.2, another friend has a Porsche 944S2 that also did 14.4, we then went to Oulton Park on a track day which was meant to be for 200bhp plus Jap cars, but due to low bookings my friend was able to run his now well run in BMW, guess what! it could not live with the ZX round the full circuit.
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<br>Now the 300zxtt is one of my slower cars, my usual track day weapon is a mildly modified Porsche 944turbo S (Silver Rose) one of 69 in the UK, go do a search, it has a genuine 325bhp as Geoff at AMD will testify, now this car is in my business partner’s opinion (he owns a 6 month old M3) significantly faster than his BMW his third late model, he went from a manual, to SMG and now back to manual, now my partner is a very handy driver who regularly thrashes the boss of Alpina UK (Sytner) round various race tracks in the country.
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<br>In our barn at work we store a number of exotic cars for business acquaintances and friends, these range from Ferrari 360’s, Aston Zagatos, Vantages, cooper sports cars, e-type racers, the list goes on, so you will see that we access to enough serious cars (note no cooking BM’s, except for a rather nice M1) and are constantly exposed to owners showing us what their cars can do.
<br>The slowest car I currently own is my trusty Skoda RS and it is funny how it still brings a big grin to my face when I dice with my biz partners M3, he also has the utmost respect for the Skoda.
<br>Now build quality wise you should be very careful before you go spouting your mouth off in rubbishing VW group products in comparison to BMW, I can assure you for instance that the E30 BMW was nowhere near as well built as the 1983 Golf GTI that preceded it, Audi’s and VW’s these days regularly shade the build quality of BMW’s, and their interiors are generally regarded as coming from a class above the BMW’s.
<br>BM’s have been known to rust like heck, when Audi’s were galvanized, and VW’s were so well protected by wax you would think they were galvanized. On BMW’s, first the cills fall to bits, then the chassis rails, followed by inner front wings, you will never find that kind of rust on any VW/Audi/Porsche of the same era, furthermore having owned a number of BMW’s myself I still own a Zeemax 735i with 35,000 genuine miles, (only because nobody wants it) I can assure you that BMW’s larger straight six engines of the late 80’s early nineties were seriously flawed in the cooling department…….their water pumps were so woefully inadequate that I have just replaced my 735’s for the second time in 35000miles go figure about build quality, Oh and by the way I have also just been able to get rid of a 525e Yankee spec 2.7 that had an impeccable service history 100,000 miles and a seriously warped head as a result of said BMW water pumps. (Also well documented on the internet) Master engine builders my backside.
<br>The leather interiors of BMW’s do not wear as well as for example my old MK2 Scirocco Storm. Quality, Quality, Quality, real quality not perceived quality when new.
<br>The seat trim of the early 3 series BMW’s would be shredded with the same mileage as its mint VW counterpart, I know this again from experience.
<br>Just look at a typical 96’ 3 series leather interior compared to a much older Golfs or Corrado’s, your claim about BM quality V Skoda / VW / Audi is a joke.
<br>And so you see my dear boy, in my experience BMW’s are very fragile mechanically even when maintained to the highest standard, they rust like heck and had a very nasty habit of sleeping in the nearest ditch when driven with gusto in the wet or dry, (before electronic driver aids rescued BMW’s reputation) You will not get any VW/Audi/Porsche owners complaining of these faults, and since the Skoda belongs to the same gene pool…..ditto Skoda owners, it should also be noted that probably due to their rally expertise it is widely acknowledged that all Skodas ride and handle more deftly than their brethren at VW, (see Autocar 16th may 2001) my experience on the road also bears this out.
<br>I also own an 1992 Audi V8 with 100000miles on the clock this still looks and drives like new compared to my very tired looking and running 1990 735i (35000 miles), by the way in every performance, economy, style and quality (perceived and real) yardstick the Audi pulverizes the BMW. So much for BM quality compared with Skoda/Audi/VW.
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<br>In conclusion you should go back to your beloved company owned BMW’s and leave us poor Skoda RS owners alone, in ignorance of the big bad world of fast BMW’s……LMAO
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<br>Oh! by the way another friend has just had a new engine put in his 18month old BMW M3 because the Vanos system failed and destroyed his engine, go ask BMW Heathrow who charged BMW UK 11K for a new engine (warranty) he has sworn his next car will not be a BMW. He used to swear by them having owned mainly M models (unlike you) he has since grown up and learnt his lesson about the BMW hype, Quality yeah quality, I seem to recall the only serious problems found to blight our Skodas are faulty coils probably made by a BMW parts supplier…………………. go figure boyo.
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<br>On the subject of coils I’ll give you some free advice, you should get yours checked out, your car is probably running on 3 cylinders and it will not cost as much as Vanos induced faults.
Rcann's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 02/02/2005
That's more like it Andytt! Any more of you out there with related facts and figures? I know someone with a flashy 325 Sport thingy and am considering arranging for a head-to-head standing start just to prove the point once and for all, though I know what the outcome will be. All this proves is that people have different opinions, as ever, and the weather conditions will play a significant part I guess - what with one being FWD and the other RWD. The proof of the pudding is in the eating. Your figures reflect accurately my experiences to date. That's the definitive proof if you ask me!
Paul Smith's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 02/02/2005
Just a reply to 'Andytt'.
<br>I think you must spend your life reading car mags and I bet you have NEVER driven anything faster than a Skoda RS. I guess if you just got out of your 1.6 Vectra or Mondeo the Skoda must seem exotic. 0-60 is the most meaningless statistic to rate any car. An M3 can do that in first gear. 0-100 is more meaningfull. I am driving a Skoda RS every day and can tell you that in the real world it is rubbish compared with any BMW 325 upward. In build quality and handling it can't compete with ANY BMW. Get the chip of your shoulder and face up to the facts which are not anything like your version gleaned from the popular motoring press rather than actual experience in proper cars.
Andytt's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 02/02/2005
Now on the issue of performance, the skoda VRS will destroy a new 325 manual according to autocar, also it was compared with the performance of a newly introduced 2000 model 330BMW in 2001 with an identical 0-60 time of 6.7 secs, and a top speed only 4 mph less in top 0-100 in the Skoda was 16.7 V BM at 16.5 so you can see you will need a bmw to match it in a straight line, it is only the very latest 2004 330i sport that can beat it to 60 in 5.9secs
<br>Now 60-0 Skoda will beat the BM330 with a time of 2.6secs V 2.7 you will need a new model M3 to stop in the same time.
<br>Handling wise I would challenge any average BMW 3 series driver to beat me on a wet winding country lane, with the traction control switched off I can usually anhilate very serious performance cars like Boxter S's and 968CS's the average 3 series BMW wouldn't see which way I went PERIOD
<br>The only 5 series that can beat it to 60 is the 540 up with 6.2 V 6.7
<br>To put the Octavia's 0-60 performance into perspective it can beat a Mazda RX8(7.1secs), Merc C320 (7.1), Audi tt 180bhp (7.4) Mk 5 Golf gti (6.7) with top slower at 136mph the VRS is nearly as fast as a MG ZT V8 (6.5), sierra RS Cosworth (6.6) with the same top speed, the list goes on The Skoda VRS is the best performance car you can buy for the money and remains so till this day, by the way my 51reg red one is for sale at 5K with FSH and 95,000 miles
Paul Smith's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 01/02/2005
Have just spoken to my dealer (Winchester) about the brake problem. They say it is a known problem with the Pussat but they have not heard of the RS suffering from it. Well they have now. They have given me the usual stuff about it could have non standard pads etc (it hasn't) and have agreed to check it. I also mentioned another brake problem ie noisy rear brakes when reversing. They are aware of this and have a factory mod to fix it.
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<br>From what I hear, the new RS is to be a diesel for gods sake!! Ok we all know modern diesels are good, but please. "Once you get on the motorway you just would not believe it's a diesel bla bla..." yea right!! I could be wrong though it's only what I heard.
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<br>Just finaly, 'Bob with Scoda' and me are the same person, I don't know how I ended up with 2 IDs but it should explain any confusion I hope.
Taylos409's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 31/01/2005
Hmmmm, maybe I did go a little over the top, I don't do double the speed limits (honest!) Being serious for a minute, I have a problem with my bonnet lifting at high speed. It originally started doing it at about 80-90mph. Took it in they adjusted the catch. Next time at speed it still did it. Have took it in 3 times now and it still lifts albeit now when doing 100+. It gets more worrying (esp when overtaking a 325, only joking!) if windy. Garage keep saying they can only road test to 70mph. Has anyone else had an issue?
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<br>Glad its not just me Bob, I had same problem 2 weeks ago. Driving in torrential rain on M1 and saw traffic slowing ahead, applied brakes and nothing happened! Let us know what the dealer says please.
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<br>Have you any more details on the new RS?
Paul Smith's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 31/01/2005
If racing BMW is your game, then Skoda's the name......
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<br>OK This is my final comment (unless someone keeps me going with silly statements).
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<br>Yes,,, the RS is a fast car.
<br>Yes,,, it is probably the best value vs performance car on the market.
<br>Yes,,, like every other RS owner I smile from ear to ear when a some BMWs can't keep up and love the look on their faces.
<br>Yes,,, to anyone in the 15K bracket this must seem like a BMW
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<br>But....
<br>It is NOT as quick as a MANUAL 325.
<br>It corners like a garden shed. (compared with a BMW)
<br>The brakes are not up to the performance and are seriously effected by water.
<br>It is quite noisey over 80mph (on private roads of course)
<br>The sun roof is smaller than the ashtray.
<br>It still has that green badge which I still have problems comming to terms with.
<br>And finally my M3 is being delivered next month, so bye bye RS, may you rest in peace in that caravan park in the sky!!!!
Rcann's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 29/01/2005
In the interests of keeping this facinating debate on the boil, all I will say is that I have owned my vRS from new for two and a half years and covered 41k miles. Still love the car, which incidentally got quicker when I fitted a K&N air filter. Apart from the K&N it is standard. During my ownership I have come up against several 330s, none of which got away (straight run from the lights) - though I would agree that they would if corners were involved. I haven't had any 325 owners even bother. I did get a little surprised when I tried to loose a Merc which was on my rear bumper. When it overtook, I saw the E55 AMG badge, so didn't feel too bad about that one!
Bob With Skoda's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 26/01/2005
So we agree then, read what I said originaly and nothing differs from your comments other than you prefer your Skoda to a BMW and I don't. Most Beemer drivers didn't buy their car, their company did so pop goes your only advantage!!
Gareth Richmond's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 25/01/2005
Let's get this sorted before it gets out of hand. In my original comment I never said that the RS would beat a 325 I said it would give it a good run for it's money. Where the RS does have the 325 beaten is the fact that a car you can now pick up for under £14,000 (if you try hard) runs a car costing well over £20,000 (in poverty spec) soooooo close!!! The 325 is a great car, i'm sure no one will disagree, but they are also more common than a Chav! As someone said in a previous review 'reverse snobbery is a great thing'. The fact that the lowly Octavia has more reviews than any other car here and so many people discussing it must be for a very good reason, and that reason is it's a great car when you consider the whole package. When I very first drove mine I said this will do for Skoda what the Impreza has done for Subaru. Well the RS has the new, more powerfull, more aggressive looking version out this year. That allied to the fact that fewer people are laughing at the little green badge must be worrying a few people. At this rate of growth the VAG will start wondering if they have backed the right horse!
Bob With Skoda's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 19/01/2005
Just an update to my original report. I have now owned the car for 4 months and stick by all that I said before despite the comments by others about BMW's etc. I wish people would read my comments properly. I never desputed it was not quicker than a 325 auto (most of em are autos) but that's about all. Saying you beat em when their bottle has gone is not the beemer's fault but the bloke driving it want's to live a bit longer, and you are determined to prove your Skoda is quicker even if you kill yourself. Anyway the only reason I am adding this comment is because I have identified a serious, and dangerous fault on my RS. I am not sure if it is just my car or common to all. When driving in heavy rain the brakes fail to work AT ALL for almost a full second until the pads clear the water off the disks. During a trip from Hampshire to Newcastle in the recent bad weather, I had this happen to me 3 times, and on one occasion I was lucky to avoid hitting the guy in front. I am taking this up with the dealer, but if it is a common fault all you other RS owners should be aware.
Taylos409's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 14/01/2005
I'm with Gareth. I've had a couple of good battles with a 325i and I won both times. Fair enough its normally down to the bottle of the driver but i had no problems keeping up and no problems overtaking once he bottled it. Top speeds are almost identical and 0-60 is fairly close. Most of the comments made about blowing away BMW's that Paul Smith takes offence too are again in my opinion correct. 3 series drivers look down their nose at the RS because its a skoda until you leave them behind. Even a 330 would not leave the RS miles behind as claimed.
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<br>If you can do 0-60 from the lights chances are you are doing double the speed limit, try doing that on the motorway and there won't be many keeping up with you.
Taylos409's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 14/01/2005
The RS would blow away all 318's as well as some 5 and 7's and on a high speed run (motorway) would certainly give the 325 a challange. Even off the mark it would be close. Top speeds are almost identical. I have also had no problems keeping up with a 325 and no problems overtaking when the BMW driver bottles it because he doesn't want to bend his over rated, over priced car!
Bob With Skoda's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 09/12/2004
By the way, thanks for the info re the mirrors. What a stupid idea though!!
Bob With Skoda's Response to Paul Smith's Review
Written on: 09/12/2004
Thanks for your comment, but the 325 you are comparing MUST be automatic, because the manual would trounce the Skoda, and my old 328 sport Coupe (which was an auto) was also quicker. Don't get me wrong, the Skoda is a quick car, but not all that quick. And around corners it is a bit quicker than the handling can cope with. But it's great value for money but again not in the same class as BMW.