never driven the GTI but ill tell you that i love my GSR. the fact that i can brin git up to 7500+ and then shift is a great feeling. I wish i had more HP and TQ..........but thats why im going turbo. handing is real nice IMO and they are cheap to fix and mod. they got everything for tegs. just make sure if you get one no becareful and not to have TOO much fun=)