Sorry for creating all these posts, but there are a bunch of questions that I haven't been able to find the answers to.

This specific one is what the mechanical difference between the GLT and Turbo/R models is. Are only the turbo and tuning different, or is the engine signifigantly different as well? I know the GLT has .1L more displacement, but are the pistons/rods/compression ratio the same (strength)? Could you create a a Turbo/R model by reflashing the ECU and swapping in a larger turbo? Thanks guys.

 

I'm pretty sure that the turbo engine has lower compression than the n/a version. And evidently Volvo felt that they needed to drop that .1L in order to make the engine stronger to endure the increased output of the turbo application. If the factory felt the need to strengthen the engine, i wouldn't think of turbo charging the GLT...although i'm sure it's been done.

As for the difference between the turbo and R, i'm pretty sure the only difference is in the ecu and tuning (besides firmer suspension and possibly ride height). I don't know if the tune is the only difference or whether the R has a whole different management system. But you can definately get a stock turbo ecu reprogrammed by people like IPD, Viva, and others, to increase the hp to more than what the factory R had in stock form.

 

I just wrote a response to the differences in another thread in either the General or New Member forum.