There were a few emission changes according to the dealer, the '00 are LEV where as the '99.5 were TLEV. Usually the emission stuff makes them slower but who knows maybe this time they got some added H.P.

...the "faster" response you're feeling is likely due to the "drive by wire" throttle on the 2000 models...basically, 1/4 gas pedal is not really 1/4 gas pedal...it can electronically be increased to say 1/2 and therefore you "feel" like it's pulling harder.....

Just my guess but that's what I would wager on...there were no other mechanical changes to the engine to account for increased power.

-Ash 98.5 1.8TQMS APR/K&N

Just took delivery of '00 2.8 qs/tiptronic; having driven '99 2.8 sport and non-sport (both Tips) the day before, both my wife and I commented on the increase in perceived pick-up in the '00.

However this was acheived, I like it.

LIY