Because the ARP4 was marketed as a fast and comfortable tourer, there are many owners who, not unaturally, expected it to also have some torque, which it hasn't.
My opinion, for what it's worth, is that MMC specified the wrong engine, it should either have been the 3.7 V6 or a 2.5 Duratec, whereas, what they have installed is, effectively, a full race engine that only fully comes alive beyond 5000 revs. Sure it is drivable below that, but there is no pull, the driver really has to change down 2 gears to get into the power band. Not everyones cup of tea, as we are finding out.
It is also a bit L O U D, easily overcome with a longer straight through silencer, but enough to put off some new owner [s].
As one of those who did decide that the ARP4 was not for me, I could not agree more. I was completely hooked on the car's pre-sale marketing description which seemed to offer something very special - a fast touring car with a great look and trim but I was very disappointed with the lack of low down torque and the fact that I had to put my biking ear plugs in to enjoy driving it. I still love the car's looks and regret that it didn't meet my expectations. However, I delight in the pleasure which it is clearly giving many of the ARP4 owners - SFO seemed to have had a great blast in the car when circuiting Ireland last month.
Anyway, my new Roadster is in build at the moment and I am getting excited once again at the prospect of taking delivery later this month.
Happy days!
