Wow. Good timing. I have EXACTLY the same problem (2001 1.8t 4X4, bog standard).

Starting from cold the engine bumps around 4-500rpm for a couple seconds. Press the throttle and nothing happens. A few seconds later BAM the power floods on. It started very slightly and only lasted a second or two, but the other day the car was sitting for about 30 seconds before it revved normally.

The car was serviced in Sept (before I got it). I have a VAG COM cable and the last time I plugged it in it registered nothing (either not a single error or I'm not using it correctly).

I have no warning lights on the dash. Other problems I have at the mo are: occasionally fails to start first time from hot, coolant level seems to be dropping slowly (but no noticeable puddles or drips), cars mists up constantly unless air con is on (suspect leaking heater?).

Would a drop in coolant level or pressure cause something like this? If it was a faulty sensor I'd expect the engine management light to come on?

The rest of the time the car is 100%. Smooth and powerful, temp stays normal, good fuel economy, no dropping of oil levels, no gunking under oil cap etc...

Wow. Good timing. I have EXACTLY the same problem (2001 1.8t 4X4, bog standard).

Starting from cold the engine bumps around 4-500rpm for a couple seconds. Press the throttle and nothing happens. A few seconds later BAM the power floods on. It started very slightly and only lasted a second or two, but the other day the car was sitting for about 30 seconds before it revved normally.

Snap!!! same year, same model, same problem, i'll see what it's like tonight on starting, was ok untill 2 night a go now doing it only from cold.

:cheers:

Blanchie