More news on Volkswagen - or Audi - or Porsche

August 23, 3:16 PMAutomotive ExaminerKyle Busch

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Well, that title is hard to explain at first but you’ll understand by the end of the article.

Volkswagen has resurrected plans to build a mid-engine coupe and tandem roadster. VW has never had a lack of ideas with some of their concept vehicles they have had over the years, and if you have read some of the recent past articles here in the Examiner, you’ll see what I mean.

VW is planning on having a concept version of the mid-engine, lightweight two-seater at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November. They say that if public opinion is positive, then the car could be in showrooms by 2011. I must say that if it’s anything like the pictures and descriptions I have seen and read, then public opinion should be VERY positive.

Will VW's concept car make it to the road? Likely yes!

The car is described as being stylish and lightweight with genuine sporty performance and also class leading fuel economy. What more could we ask for?  

VW is considering a 170-hp, 1.4-liter twin turobocharged TSI gasoline engine and a new 125-hp, 1.6-liter TDI common-rail diesel engine, both transferring power to the rear wheels through a seven-speed double-shift gearbox. Weight of the car is under 2200 lbs. Will it be fun? Yes!

Now, to explain what I meant in the title. If you didn’t know, Volkswagen Group (Volkswagen AG) is the third largest automaker in the world and the largest in Europe. Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche have always had close working relations. Audi is a subdivision of VW, and Porsche used VW components in the 80s to make the 924. The original VW Beetle had its engine in the rear, and the Porsche 911 began and continues to have its engine at the back even to this day!

During the past few years, Porsche has been purchasing VW stock, and Porsche will soon actually take control over the VW group.  Since VW and Porsche have always had a close working relationship, Porsche does not want another entity outside of the group to take over and control Volkswagen. Porsche is currently the most profitable independent auto manufacture. In addition to high-end sport cars, the company wants to expand its base to get more of the mainstream auto market and thus its potential profits.  The bottom line - Porsche wants to stay independent, call its own shots, and remain profitable.

The Porsche 914 also had a vertical rear window

With VW looking at building this two-seat mid engine roadster, Audi is also considering building one, possibly called the R4. Power coming from Audi's new EA888-based 211-horsepower, 2.0-liter TFSI gas engine or a 200 horsepower twin-turbocharged 2.0-liter TDI common-rail diesel being very likely.

Porsche is a master at repeating automotive design cycles while adding new technology to make modern vehicles appealing.

Well, with all of this going on, Porsche will likely also build their own version which can be seen as resurrection of the 914. Regardless of if it’s a VW, Audi or Porsche, I can’t wait! Can you?

Kyle Busch is the author of  “Drive the Best for the Price…” He welcomes your comments or  car questions at his auto web site: www.DriveTheBestBook.com.