VW Golf GTi Hatchback 1981-

Want to know everything there is to know about this car?

  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    A classic for under a grand.

    Costs

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Lots of parts need replacing, but firms such as GSF keeps costs to a minimum.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    No PAS on my model. Steering very heavy in car parks, but otherwise spot on.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Can compete and upset with the majority of hot hatches. 16v engine lacks torque over 8v counterpart.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Always starts and runs like a gem after 140k miles.

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Car prices coming down, so boy racer muppets now getting their hands on them.

    Comfort

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Recaro-style seats and good suspension gives a comfortable ride as standard.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Still a target and easy to get into. Immobiliser and alarm a must.

    Service

    2 out of 5 2.0

    VW best left to those little odds and sods you can't get from moto factors.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Worn valve stem seals only problem I've had, but she has done nearly 150k miles.

    Other

    CV gators all seemed to split one weekend, but other than that no problems.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes