Looking for input regarding the “off the line” acceleration of the 850R and any other similar 850 turbos.

I have a 1997 850R and the “off the line” acceleration from a stop is muddy like the transmission is trying not the spin the tires, until the car hits 5 to 10 mph. The air box is stock, the catalytic converter has 130,000 miles, mated to the 4-speed automatic with the driving switch is set to “Sport” and “Sport”.

I am of the assumption this is a characteristic of the transmission, as the throttle response seems reasonable. Or, would this be a lack of power before the turbo spools up?

Does anyone have any first hand experience on this?

 

You may want to see if you can find an app to measure your 0 to 60 time. I'd expect a flat start to be in the 7.0 second range. Don't believe stats from magazine tests as they use tricks like power braking to spool the turbo for a wheel spin launch with the TRACS turned off.

As a past owner of a 95 850T, I'd say yes there is some turbo lag until about 2500-3000 rpm when it comes on. The Sport mode moves up the shift points so once you get on boost it stays there through all the gears.

Have you ever done a drain/fill or a flush of the transmission? A quick paper towel test should show reddish brown color to the fluid. If its more brownish black then you will benefit from a drain/fill (3x will get 85% clean) or a flush (you can tap into the cooler lines to do a flush - check youtube for vids and ebay for kits if interested).

As to the engine, the airbox is actually quite good OEM. You may also want to check your tune (cap/rotor/wires/plugs). Note good ol' copper core plugs work best - consider OEM over triple platinum/iridium bla bla bla and make sure the gap is correct (.028 if I recall).

 

I have a 96 855R that has low power until around 3,000 rpm then it feels like it's over boosting and will spin the tires. Was wondering if it could be an issue with the CBV having an issue. It doesn't have a smooth buildup of power like my 97 850R does.