When/why we need x-member bracing

[UrGTI@aol.com (UrGTI@aol.com)]

OK so we need a good metalurgist on the list to step up and do some analyzing 
of the early metal vs. late. Perhaps when they went to the A2 generation they 
did change the formula in the metal. That would go along with Neals theory. 
>From my old physics class I do know less malleable (sp?) metal equals less 
flexibility and is more prone to breaking.

I can toss my experience in FWIW I have run a 2.0 16v in my 80 and see no 
stress in my chassis.  I also drive it about at hard as possible and run drag 
slicks at the strip. Before the scirocco I had the engine in a rabbit and no 
problems there either. I actually ran into the hiway median and swayed the 
front so much I had to customize the front cup. It was very tweaked but the 
metal did not crack anywhere. I have been know to get airborne in my cars 
too. I also run Bilstiens and 350# rate front springs with no upper stress 
bar only 16v lower. Stock side mounts with motorsport rear and poly front.

Jasin