Volkswagen Polo Saloon (1985 - 1992) CL 2d (86) (1987/E) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I wouldn't be seen dead in a Fiesta.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Did well on a budget second-hand.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Actually, now, many years on? I know it would be very basic, but that has an appeal. It would be bordering on classic car age by now though!! I'd definitely buy a modern Polo Bluemotion if I had the money though.

What are you likely to buy next?

I wanted another Polo, but couldn't afford one. So I went and bought a SEAT.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,000

When did you buy the car?

May 1995

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, because the salesman knew I was on a tight budget.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

First car, bought because I was moving out of a large city with good public transport and would need to find my own way to work.

What was the dealer like?

Took my father with me for a second opinion, turned out they knew each other! I somehow think that might have helped...

What's it like to drive?

Obviously from a previous era, quite a lively ride, brakes didn't have a servo which took some getting used to but you never locked the wheels. The more horrible the weather the better it got, I remember being the only car still going in the snow on several occasions. Surprisingly quick and economical too.

What's it like to park?

Piece of cake. I was initially put off by the boot, but actually it wasn't a problem.

Have you had any problems with the car?

It was pretty high mileage but bodywork was immaculate. Had a few minor electrical faults, distributor broke, head gasket went, ate shock absorbers until an independent VW specialist suggested fitting the ones intended for the G40 as they lasted better. This sounds terrible, but bear in mind this car was 12 years old, had done over 150,000 miles when I sold it and still had quite a few years of life left in it.

What's most practical about your car?

Loved the simplicity. Massive boot even as a saloon. Drove like it was much bigger than it was. Easy to park, good steering... in fact, there's an old boy round the corner from who's had one from new. It's mint condition and when changing my car recently I nearly knocked on the door and asked him if he'd sell it to me!

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

It had had front fog lights fitted. Very useful as the headlights weren't all that bright.