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As with all of you, I’ve been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to own a GT4. As you are all very well familiar, everyone is ranting and raving about how amazing the GT4 is. I, myself don’t mind the long gearing, but I do notice that it is not until about 5,000 RPMs that the GT4 starts to pull.
When I first took my GT4 autocrossing and would come out of a slow corner into the straight, the RPMs had to build up before my GT4 was able to really push.
If you’re like me, you’re always looking for more. I’m very careful with my selection of modifications for my GT4 and I have always aim to mod my cars as tastefully as possible.
I had the pleasure of dealing with Dan Mermelstein from Vivid Racing. He told me about the +20 hp /+15 tq gains of the VR Tuned ECU flash and was very helpful and prompt with the whole process.
My GT4:
No performance mods other than the racing stripes.
About 1,150 miles before the flash.
Now at 2,000 miles.
Before the ECU flash:
I drove over to a racing shop where’s Dan’s friend was able to do the flash for me. I brought my friend along so he can also use his objective seat of the pants (acceleration) judgement. It was a nice 1 hour morning drive so along the way I was able to do some pulls from various RPMs.
When I arrived, the flash was nice and easy. I was so busy gawking at all the race cars and slowly creeping around. There was even a Caterham Lola SP300-R, but for discretion I will have to keep the pic to myself. Looking at the timestamp of my pics, it appears that it took less than 30mins.
After the ECU Flash:
Off we go to terrorize the streets of this dainty town. Well actually on my way to the highway I keep my speed low- as if my bright red car, racing stripes, and aerodynamic picnic table on the back doesn’t bring enough attention. I give a quick little pull with about 80% throttle and wow! To my surprise I notice the difference immediately and so did my friend!
I hit the highway and do a few pulls and I’m actually amazed. There’s only one good way I can describe it. I used to have a 2005 modded Acura RSX-S as my first car and there’s a noticeable increase in acceleration when you crossover to VTEC. I get the same experience but even in the lower-mid range. When I am in the low RPMs (let’s say about 2,500 RPMs) and mash the throttle at about 2,800 RPMs you get an audible and perceptible VTEC-like crossover. It sounds as if the valves open up and you get a smooth and immediate surge of power. On a downshift, the acceleration is immediate! As per my passenger, the torque actually pushes you into the back of your LWB seats (or Sofas for the less fortunate…I’m kidding). The torque that was lacking in stock form was now apparent even in the low-mid RPMs. This makes driving around town much more fun than it was before! My lady also notices the difference in acceleration as well. As per her request, I now have to warn her if I’m going to suddenly downshift and accelerate.
Now some of you are probably wondering if the power drops off in the higher RPM range. I’ve driven about 300 miles since the flash and from my experience this little GT4 just keeps pulling and pulling all the way to redline.
Dyno? Sorry, I do not have before & after dyno figures and I honestly don’t care to have one as I love the way this flash added to my already euphoric experience with this car.
Sound! It was just brought to my attention that the vales open up at 3,500 RPMs. I don't know if that is 100% true but if it is, it makes complete sense! Since the flash my GT4 seems louder and more aggressive! When I step on the throttle you can actually hear the valves open up even below 3,000 RPMs. I even feel like the exhaust seems to pop and crackle a little more!
Overall the customer support and communication with Vivid Racing (Dan) was excellent and the VR Tuned ECU flash far exceeded my expectations. I’m more than happy with the results! I can definitely recommend this flash. Thanks Vivid Racing!
