What is the Difference Between a GTI and Golf R

In-Depth Comparison of the MK7 GTI and Golf R Engines: Key Differences in Power, Components, and Performance

VW Enthusiast look at the 2.0t engines in both the Golf R and GTI, and wonder how are these different.  Below we are going to outline all of the mechanical differences that makes the Golf R difference from the GTI.

Now that we have touched on the main basic differences of the parts on and around these engines, we have torn down these motors to compare them side by side.  Below is a list of differences we found during our tear down of a GTI and Golf R engine both from 2016 model vehicles.

Intake Cams

Both the GTI and Golf R intake cams have the same lift measurements as measure in our video. This means the cams allow the intake valves to open by the same amount, letting in equal amounts of air into the combustion chamber. However, while the part numbers of the cams are different, but they look almost identical.

Other notable differences are in the cam adjuster part numbers. Its possible the only difference is the cam adjuster coming from different manufactures, but its also possible these have different adjustment ranges.  The cam lobes on the GTI cam are splined but only press fit on Golf R camshafts. In general, the intake cams appear to be interchangeable between the GTI and Golf R, but since we have not tested this its not advisable to use the much less expensive GTI cam in a Golf R until this has been verified. 

MK7 GTI Intake Camshaft

MK7 Golf R Intake Camshaft 

Exhaust Cams

When it comes to exhaust cams, the Golf R holds a slight advantage. While the valve lift appears to be the same between the GTI and Golf R cams.  The exhaust cam has a longer duration on the larger cam lobe —how long the exhaust valves stay open—is slightly longer in the Golf R. This allows for better exhaust scavenging, which helps the turbo spool up faster, leading to improved power delivery at higher RPMs.

MK7 GTI Exhaust Camshaft

MK7 Golf R Exhaust Camshaft

Cylinder Head

The main physical difference between the North American GTI and Golf R engine is the presence of a secondary air system in the GTI’s cylinder head.   This is an emission system that is absent in the Golf R. The secondary air system helps heat up the catalytic converter faster on cold starts, improving emissions control.

One of the standout differences is in the cylinder head material. The GTI is made from aluminum alloy AlSi10Mg, while the Golf R head is made of AlSi9Cu3.  The Golf R head offers better thermal properties for better heat dissipation, which is crucial when running the engine harder, especially in performance situations. Interestingly, the Golf R cylinder head is also approximately 3 lbs lighter than that of the GTI, further adding to its advantages.

Valves and Valve Springs

The valves in both the Golf R and GTI engines appear identical in size and structure.  When cut open the valves on the Golf R appear to be hollow and likely use a metallurgy that can deal with heat better. 

The valve springs also have different part numbers between the two models. It’s likely that the Golf R’s springs are stiffer and better suited for handling higher RPMs and power output, though this difference is more relevant for those pushing their engines to the limit.

If you were upgrading either of these parts you are very likely to select aftermarket options.

GTI Intake Valve 
GTI Intake Valve Spring
GTI Exhaust Valve
GTI Exhaust Valve Spring

Golf R Intake Valve
Golf R Intake Valve Spring
Golf R Exhaust Valve
Golf R Exhaust Valve Spring

Engine Block Composition

While the Golf R and GTI engine blocks look almost identical, one notable difference is where they are made: the Golf R engine is built in Germany, while the GTI engine is manufactured in Mexico. Despite this, there’s no clear evidence that the German-made engine is superior in terms of performance or reliability. Both engine blocks share similar oil and coolant galley, freeze plug sizing and locations, and the crankcase ventilation channels.

Pistons and Compression Ratios

The pistons in the Golf R and GTI also differ slightly. The Golf R's larger piston dish results in a lower compression ratio, allowing it to handle more boost and power output from the larger turbo. The GTI piston, on the other hand, has a higher compression ratio, making it more suitable for its smaller turbo.

Despite rumors circulating online, the Golf R's pistons are not forged. Both Golf R and GTI engines appear to use pressure cast pistons, offering slightly more strength than a standard cast piston. For those looking to push their engines to the limit, aftermarket forged pistons would be the best option.

Upgraded Mahle 82.5mm Pistons

Upgraded Mahle 83mm Pistons

Connecting Rods and Crankshafts

The connecting rods in the 2.0T Golf R, 2.0T GTI, and the 1.8T MQB Engines are forged, which is good for those looking to tune, as the stock rods can handle moderate increases in power. The forged rods can be identified by the wide parting line in the middle, a byproduct of the forging process, versus a slim singular line created by the casting process.

As for the crankshafts, both the Golf R and GTI use forged cranks. However, they differ in part numbers, with the Golf R's crankshaft possibly being a stronger metalurgy to support its higher power output. Both engines use the same bearings on the crankshaft and connecting rods, making them interchangeable between the two models.

IE I Beam Connecting Rods w ARP Bolts

IE Forged Connecting Rods 144X22 

Piston Squirters: Small but Notable Difference

Another small but notable difference is the piston squirters. These are designed to spray oil onto the bottom of the pistons to keep them cool during operation. The Golf R’s piston squirters have a slightly higher flow rate, which helps maintain optimal piston temperatures under extreme conditions. The difference in diameter between the GTI and Golf R squirters is marginal but could make a difference for those pushing the limits of their engine’s performance.

MK7 GTI Piston Squirters

MK7 Golf R Piston Squirters 

Conclusion: A Better Engine for More Power

The MK7 Golf R engine is built for higher performance with better components that are designed to handle more power and stress. The GTI engine is a solid platform, but when compared side by side, it lacks some of the refinements found in the Golf R.

If you have a GTI and are looking to upgrade your engine, building your engine with Golf R parts would not be the play.  Aftermarket parts like pistons and connecting rods would be much more capable to hold up to big power.  If you were doing a big engine build  on a GTI engine you could consider things like Golf oil squirters or exhausts cams for the added protection found on those vehicles.