Cabriolet Questions

[C.A.R.]

1) Cabriolet/hatchback differences.

Looking at the panels I don't know which are the same/different. I know the doors aren't the same but what about the wings/bumpers etc?

As already said, the only matching body panels are from the wingmirrors forward - everything else is bespoke to the cabriolet

2) Exhaust.

Is there a difference in exhaust for the cabriolet ie is it a longer system? I will be putting a GTi6 manifold and cat one on there soon

Different centre-section, I believe the whole thing is longer. If you want a sports exhaust the easiest thing to do will be to get one made up / custom fabricated.

3) Interior.

Is the seats, carpet etc the same? I'm looking at getting blue S16 seats but I'm concerned about the back seat fitment.

Seats just won't fit I'm affraid. Rear bench is narrower for a start and the front seats are on different sliding mechanisms. If you wanted to retro-fit some other seats then you're looking at taking the seats off of their existing runners and fitting them to your desired seats. Could bolt straight in - might not. Rear bench certainly won't though.

4) Brembos.

Will fit behind Cyclones with 15mm spacers? Also, if I was to convert to stud and nut how long can you get the studs?

Yes I believe that is the case, however I have never bothered myself, whilst the cabriolet is heavy the GTi6 or 206 GTi180 setup is more than adequate stopping power, so can't answer your other question either...

5) GTi6 bits. (Most importantly)

I've seen that the GTi6 'box and inlet can be done. I'm looking at doing the gearbox first but I've heard that the GTi6 gearbox needs a new steering rack?

No point really, I have owned a 1.8 hatch and done the manifolds myself and bought a 1.8 cabriolet which had already had the work done. It did circa 22mpg on one full tank of fuel - it was over-fuelling like a bitch. Really not worth it. The only way to get it to properly work is to go aftermarket ECU route - which is going to cost more than any GTi6 engine conversion. If you want more power, get a GTi6 donor car and swap the engine, box, ECU, engine loom, clocks, power-steering rack, front brakes, cooling system (rad / pipes etc.) and exhaust downpipe. This is definitely your most cost-effective way to more power.

6) What phase is my car :embarrassed:

Phase 3, identified by the clear headlights and clear foglights (phase 2's had frosted)