1991 Volkswagen Golf GTi 16v review from UK and Ireland

I bought the car in June 2001 and it had no history, just the last 8 MOT certificates.

The head gasket began to blow, probably precipitated by a few enthusiastic test drives so changed all the belts, gaskets and regular service items at the same time as a precaution.

The electric window switch is on order (a common fault with Mk 2 Golfs - 2 failed on my last one), but apart from that, it's the usual VAG build quality and reliability story.

The 16v engine is a real love it or hate it thing. Compared to my previous 8v, it's a world apart with none of the low down urge and grunt that made swift progress so easy. This engine needs to be given it's head, and the extra 25 horses are not evident until you're past 5000rpm and hold out until nearly 7000! It's quite intoxicating if you're in the mood to push, but can be quite tiresome as the noise levels are not insignificant.