Volkswagen Golf Hatchback (1992 - 1998) 2.0 GTI 3d (1996/P) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Either tight or poor! I'd like to think it shows i'm the gti enthusiast that i am. Old golfs have a certain style i think and this one looks like new with a bit of polish.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Everyone likes it, and even if gti's aren't there thing, nobody laughs at you in a golf gti do they? No matter how old! Always gets respect despite the fact that its performance is pretty ordinary these days.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Definately. Although i'd obviously like to try 16v and would love a VR6. Although this is a good compromise with fuel prices as they are.

What are you likely to buy next?

Been thinking about something new and economical as i do about 25k miles per year. Costs of new cars do not make sense when theres nothing wrong with my old golf though! Mazda 2 diesel, fiat 500? Just wouldn't make me feel as proud as driving the gti!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£1,350

When did you buy the car?

January 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

Pretty good i think. £1350 from ebay, 73k, spotless and solid as a rock!

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Owned 3 three mk2 golf gti's in the past 5 years and have loved each one. Needed something lower mileage so this was the obvious next step. I just love Golf GTi's!

What was the dealer like?

N/A

What's it like to drive?

I read lots of reviews before buying, most saying how mk3 gti is soft and not as good as MK2 / MK1! Its rubbish! This one has much better composure, where MK2 would crash and bounce off line (on NEW standard suspension!)this one sits solid, has little body roll and more grip. Not quite as light and agile true, but on a bumpy country road this actually handles best! Engine is nice and smooth with good torque but definately not as quick or as fun to rev as MK2 8v. Just feels a bit flat and gutless. I do get 40 - 45mpg from every tank full though, which i think is excellent for a 2.0 gti! Nice and refined car, much more so than MK2 and very soild feeling with no squeaks or rattles. Feels a lot more modern. My MK2 feels the most fun and exciting to drive though!

What's it like to park?

If you cant park this you shouldn't be driving!

Have you had any problems with the car?

Done about 15k in it so far. An exhaust rubber which cost about £1 and took me 2 minutes. Rattly heat shield strapped up, although exhaust still sounds a bit blowy at manifold/downpipe. Engine has a slight stutter/miss around 3,000 revs and is generally a little rough. Apparently quite common on these though no body seems to have a definate cure. Not so bad as to spoil drive though.

What's most practical about your car?

Its a medium size hatchbach, i.e. completely practical!

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Sounds strange but the brakes! After years in MK2's these are fantastic!