VW Golf GTi Hatchback 1981-

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

  • Economy

    Value

    1 out of 5 1.0

    If you want a Golf, don't get a 1300cc.

    Costs

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Usual VW service / parts charges.

  • On the road

    Driving

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Felt solid but far to heavey for this engine.

    Performance

    1 out of 5 1.0

    The WORST! Imagine driving a car with the handbrake on.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    1 out of 5 1.0

    New starter, heater matrix, water pump, hoses, boot lock, washer motors, battery. All went wrong in 1 year.

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Better than an early Nova or a Fiesta.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    You feel like you're in a solid car.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Naff trigger grip handles are easy to break into.

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Make sure your Golf had alterations to the heating system (VW recalled this model). They were uninterested in carrying out the work on my car.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    The worst thing about my car. Felt like 2bhp.

    Other

    This car put me right off VWs for a while.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    No