24 Aug 04
So what does your £400 buy you? Not just a better manual gearbox (with closer ratios) than the SensoDrive and that extra 15bhp, but also stiffened suspension and more direct steering, which make for a better driving experience. The VTS feels sharper on the road; its ride is a smidgeon fidgety around town, but composed at speed, with good body control. The steering's extra directness has improved it, too. It's still finger-twiddling light around town, but firms up noticeably at speed, and has good response. The chassis grips well, and is agile enough too, with some scope for line adjustment if you turn in on the brakes, but it's always safe rather than edgy, and there's unobtrusive stability control to back you up.
The engine's quite a good thing too, revving with enthusiasm round to its new red-line at a little over 7,000rpm, while developing peak power at 6,500 and peak torque, of 105lb/ft, at 3,750rpm. Power delivery feels broad and linear, with no peaky surge at the top end, so it's a pleasure to use. Some high-pitched whine does accompany the more satisfying rort, though. Brakes are strong, albeit over-servoed at the top-end of the pedal's travel, while that manual gearbox is positive and has an average length of throw.
Performance is brisk. Nought to 62mph takes 8.3seconds, and the VTS goes on to a top speed of 126mph - pretty good figures for a car of its size and power. Like other C2s, it feels spacious in the front, less so in the back. Since the driver's seat adjusts for height and the steering wheel for reach and rake, everyone should find a comfortable driving position. The sports seats are snug and supportive, too, even if their exaggerated side bolsters look a little cartoonish.
