Airtec Motorsport front-mount Intercooler upgrade for the Volkswagen Golf Mk4 1.8 20VT, designed to replace the restrictive original Intercooler and pipework system with a much more efficient solution offering higher airflow and improved cooling performance.
This intercooler utilises a single-pass 60 mm high-flow core, allowing the Intake air to flow through the system more quickly and efficiently. This results in lower Intake temperatures, better response and more stable performance at increased boost pressure.
the intercooler has been extensively tested on the dynamometer at AMD tuning, where a gain of 12 hp in the mid-range was measured on a Stage 1 setup. Higher stages of tuning benefit even more from the improved cooling capacity and airflow.
The kit retains the original fog lights and crash bar, although a slight adjustment to the crash bar is required, as described in the fitting instructions. In addition, the rear of the central grille section must be modified to ensure a correct fit.
The set comes complete with 4/5-layer silicone hoses, stainless steel hose clamps, mounting brackets and all necessary fixing materials.
Test results
rolling road tested with Stage 1 software
Original
Intercooler• Intake temperature before Intercooler: 128
°C• Temperature after Intercooler: 49 °C
Airtec Motorsport
Intercooler• Intake temperature before Intercooler: 126
°C• Temperature after Intercooler: 23 °C
Result: +12 hp gain in the mid-range and more stable power delivery without heat soak.
Benefits
• 60 mm high-flow
core• Lower Intake temperatures•
12 hp extra power gain on Stage 1
setup• Better airflow than OEM system•
Flowed cast end tanks•
4/5-layer silicone
hoses• Retains original fog lights & crash
bar• Available in Pro-Series Black
Compatibility
Volkswagen Golf Mk4 1.8T – ’98–’04
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the advantage of this intercooler over the OEM unit?
The Airtec Intercooler offers significantly better airflow and much lower Intake temperatures, enabling the engine to deliver power more consistently.
Does it require any modifications for fitting?
Yes, minor adjustments to the crash bar and the centre section of the grille are required for correct fitting.
Are the fog lights retained?
Yes, this intercooler retains the original fog lights.
Is this intercooler suitable for higher power outputs?
Yes; the higher the power output, the greater the benefit of the improved cooling capacity and airflow.