Volkswagen Polo Hatchback 1.4 16V 3d (1998/R) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Probably not as good value as other makes, but at the end of the day i think the quality speaks for itself. Go sit in a Peugout or a Ford do you get such interiors? (also go for 98+ cars they get abs so hold value better).
Costs
Servicing from main dealers is pricey as are parts. I've had mine for 2 years and only wear and tear parts have been replaced. Insurance is high, group 10!!!
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On the road
Driving
Very nice car, I like alot! It handles fine, if a little bit rolly in really tight or high speed corners. Controls are all in excellent places (except rear screen heater, cant see if its on or off because its behind the wheel). Good at everything!
Performance
Strong performance in the high rev range. I believe that the 98+ cars have the same flywheel bhp but see more at the wheels than pre98 cars due to a better transmission. The car embarrasses many and I love it! I've had 125mph on a private road!
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Living with it
Reliability
Dodgy idle can be a nuisance. Can be cured very easily by squirting carb cleaner down butterfly intake under air filter. Sounds complex but isn't. Go to UK-POLOS.NET for details
Image
I like it alot, but I'm think about changing it very soon for a Nissan Almera GTi.
Comfort
Proper VW. nice and comfy, good supportive seats at speed or stuck in a jam. heaters are good as is the standard stereo. steering wheel and seat are fully positional (dont know if thats all 16v though).
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Security and Service
Security
Remote control locking and alarm. Seems alright. The alarm went bonkers a while back, and went off when the sun came out. I think the internal sensors where positioned wrong. Anyway its fine now.
Service
VW services are alright if your cars newish. I had a 93' reg golf and they didnt care for it at all, didnt even valet it after a service. I'd recommend an independant. They don't call them main dealers for nothing.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Dodgy idle. It never had it between 29-53k then it kicked in. simply solved by what I said before or quick fix with temp sender. If you want lots of info on these cars i recommend polo net it has everything.
Other
Don't be scared of the rolly handling at full whack. Take it onto private land and try a turn you think is too tight it'll most probably get you through it. I took mine on mad sunday in the isle of man.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes