Volkswagen Jetta 1.8 GTi 16V 4d (1990/H) Owner Review
-
Economy
Value
Much cheaper to buy than Golf counterpart.
Costs
3rd party parts easy to come by at much less cost. Fuel economy excellent for performance car - sometimes upwards of 40mpg!
-
On the road
Driving
Superb. Involved and handles very well for sizable saloon. Refined ride and much quieter than Golf models - less rattles etc.
Performance
Excellent. 0-60 is achievable in less time than stated 7.9. A fast car. Be prepared to drive it well past 4000rpm to find the real guts - can feel a little tepid before this.
-
Living with it
Reliability
Basically sound car. A few minor problems with my car, fixed inexpensively. Condition reflected in price when bought, however reasonably cheap performance motoring. (It has done 133k miles).
Image
Lacks cult status of its sister car. Less grandaddy than other Jetta models; makes a different kind of statement.
Comfort
Seats are much better than non-GTi models. Nice velour trim not found in Golfs and much nicer rear bench. Steering is nicely weighted on open road, but find one with PAS for parking (mine doesn't have).
-
Security and Service
Security
Lack of alarm or immobiliser. Door handles are weak. At the very least, invest in some protective door plates.
-
Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Nothing that shouldn't be expected on a 12 year old car.
Other
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