Volkswagen Scirocco (1984 - 1992) GT 3d (1985/B) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

If it's unmodified it says that you appreciate a good car and dont mind standing out from the crowd (particularly with the storms which are worthless if modified). If you put big alloys on it and paint it purple it says "ive ruined a great car"

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

Everyone loves it.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Hopefully I will keep the one I have for a long time as I plan to restore it to an "as new" level. However i have had a scirocco before.

What are you likely to buy next?

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£1,250

When did you buy the car?

November 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

I paid £1250 for it. That might seem a bit steep but it has only done 124k with a full service history (not bad for a 23 year old car)

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

This is actually the 1.8i Storm (not listed in Parkers drop down list) I bought this car as a hobby as it is one of the 600 Scirocco Storm's ever made (300 in Havana Brown and 300 in Cosmos Blue). The idea is to restore it to it's original condition.

What was the dealer like?

Got it from a private collection

What's it like to drive?

These cars are a thrill to drive and handle like nothing else on the road. Ignore those fools who say the steering is too heavy and the brakes are rubbish - all you need is a bit more effort to get a really rewarding driving experience. Remember the Scirocco weighs 350kg LESS than a new fiesta so the 112bhp 1.8i gets to 60 in about 8 seconds.

What's it like to park?

Parking is easy as the car is quite small and easy to see out of. Beware, no power steering (but my mum had one for 17 years so it can't be that bad).

Have you had any problems with the car?

This one runs and drives fine. 1.8i DX engines should run to 200k plus if looked after properly. Look out for rusty fuel filler pipes (under rear wheelarch) and check the bulkhead where the clutch cable comes through - it tends to give way due to metal fatigue. Also check for a crunch when engaging second gear - this can indicate a worn synchromesh. Avoid carb models unless they've had a Weber Replacement.

What's most practical about your car?

The boot is plenty large enough. Don't expect to get people with legs into the back seats.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The Storm models have leather seats, which are very pleasant. Check they aren't worn too much as replacements are VERY hard to find. Storm also has electric aerial and headlamp washers.