Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet 1.8 GTi 2d (1990/G) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
You can"t buy a cheaper, more reliable convertible.
Costs
Mechanicals are fairly basic by modern standards, so labour charges are kept to a minimum. Hoods are cheap to replace (top quality one from Hoods Galore is about £380 fitted).
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On the road
Driving
Brakes are the same as Golf Mk 1 with small front discs. It's certainly worth considering upgrading to bigger discs and calipers.
Performance
I don"t agree with Parker's rating. The engine loves to rev. Get a low mileage well looked after one and you"ll be amazed how many more powerful cars you can keep up with. It helps not having a 'cat'.
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Living with it
Reliability
Never ever broke down - why should it, it"s a Volkswagen!
Image
Image is fantastic. When it's polished everyone gives you a look. Quentin Wilson was right when he said it was the best looking cabrio going for less than £6k.
Comfort
Driver comfort is great, but heater isn"t up to much, so wrap up in winter. Anyone in the back gets seriously blown about with the hood down.
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Security and Service
Security
What security? If you"ve got a cabrio of any make someone can just cut the roof. At least with a Mk 1 cabrio you can get a good one for about £3,500 - so if someone does steal it, it's not so bad.
Service
VW just want to rip you off. But there are a mass of aftermarket companies to help out with cheap parts and low labour costs
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
These engines go on forever. This is my 4th Golf and all the others have done well over 170k miles.
Other
Hoods should last about 10 years if looked after. Watch for cracks where it creases above the doors.
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