VW Golf GTi Hatchback 1981-

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

  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Second hand parts available cheaply. Easy to work on. Cheap to buy.

    Costs

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Running this kind of car isn't very cheap fuel wise, but hey if you want economy, go buy a diesel.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Great handling. Very, very quick at higher revs, pushing you into your seat! Loves to be thrown about. Great fun!

    Performance

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Superb, but slighly hard on the suspension on long drives - what do you want for a 14 year old car!?

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Rear calipers prone to seizing and watch out for rear arches. Look for obvious repair work on body and a HPI check is a must. Check out how quick it gets hot and that the cooling fan works!

    Image

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Classic cult car, becoming very rare. If you've got a good one keep it and make a few quid on it as prices are sure to rise for a mint one.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Comfy seats. Hard ride, though, for long distance, but you cannot have everything!

  • Security and Service

    Security

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Get at least a Cat2 immobiliser on it as your insurance company will not touch you otherwise. If already got one, make sure you get the certificate or it will be invalid to the insurance.

    Service

    5 out of 5 5.0

    N/A - never used them. Use a specialist in Cheshire called Golf Nutz.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Regularly change the oil. PAS belt always squeals.

    Other

    Check cooling fan works and internal heater works too, as heater matrix leaking can cause a big bill.

    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