Volkswagen Polo Hatchback C 3d (1986/C) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Bought it for €200 from a very careful owner. Handy little load carrier (more of an estate than a hatch). Basic equipment and yesterdays technology but who cares?
Costs
DIY servicing is the norm if you have one of these. Spares are very cheap from scrapyards and the like and rarely needed anyway. Very cheap and easy to keep on the road.
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On the road
Driving
There are other small cars of the 80s that are more nimble but its still a good drive. Steering a bit heavy for something this small, even if it does lack PAS. No brake servo, but they do the job. I like the driving position and visibility.
Performance
1050 engine is willing but noisy. Needs hard work on the open roads and can struggle under a full load. By no means hopeless though. Feels lively when driven solo.
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Living with it
Reliability
Needs to be serviced regularly but once looked after they seem to run forever. Very simple by modern standards anyway, so not much goes wrong anyway.
Image
Mk2 Polos are well in banger territory now but a lot of people have them (especially students) so I never feel embarrassed. Not that I would anyway, I think it's a great little car.
Comfort
Very roomy for something so small. Versatile luggage space carries just about anything. Seats aren't all that comfortable though. Suspension setup gives a bumpy ride.
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Security and Service
Security
The previous owner put in an immobiliser & gearstick lock. Security generally isn't great on these old cars but then again thieves tend to steal faster and more exotic stuff.
Service
If it's an easy job I do it myself. Otherwise I get a hand from my mates. Nobody with an old Polo wastes money on VW servicing when the cars are so straightforward.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Rough when revved but always up to the job. Seems to be no known way of wearing it out.
Other
Hands down, best car you can buy for so little money. Just goes on and on once you look after it properly.
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