Volkswagen Golf Hatchback 1.8 GTI 16V 3d (1991/J) Owner Review

+ Well designed dash layout & driving position, good multi function computer (especially for its time) - Prone to 2nd gear crunch (esp when cold), one of my biggest concerns is safety - old design and very few safety features no airbags, no ABS..

+ Mk2 16v still gets best Golf GTi rating in Evo magazine, when revved hard (>4500rpm) car flies! - Does not have enough low down torque, 8v supposedly quicker to 30mph...

+ In over 2 years of ownership it has always started first time every time and has never broken down, get one with FSH to maximise chance of reliabilty - Has needed a few parts replacing but it is a 13yr old car

+ Still cool to be seen in one and still gets respect from others on road and looks from people in street, try finding a car with better image for £2k from that era (1.9 205 Gti maybe..) - Not much..

+ Comfortable seats, ride not too firm, plenty of space in back and boot - Could do with higher spec (eg you wont find one with air-con..), noisy at motorway speed (@80mph it revs at 4k)

+ Its a 13 yr old car so not very tempting to thieves (unless yours is mint see above..!) - May be targetted by joyriders, very easy to break into: Fit armour door locks (very easy + cheap) and an after market immobiliser/alarm

Engine

Needed new engine mount, starter motor

Other

Rear brake caliper went: these cost £300 new buy a reconditioned one for £100

Did you buy the car new?

Used

Would you buy the same model again?

Yes

Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

Yes