1986 Volkswagen GTI review from North America

Replaced: Alternator, Brakes, Battery, Hatch Lifters, Headlights (previous owner had very bright halogens that, although very useful, would blow the fuse), Tires.

Reverse lights never work in VW's and they are known to have electrical problems.

Engine had white foamy stuff in the oil, so I let the car sit for 1 year and then did an oil change, and drove it daily - the white stuff never came back.

It also would stall intermittently while driving - maybe once per month. I just put it in neutral and turned the car off and then on again (you have to do this in a VW to start it again) and then it was fine and I continued on down the road, never skipping a beat. Speed, RPM, gear, temperature were all different, so I assumed it was either a vacuum leak or a loose wire somewhere. I put it in the shop a number of times, they couldn't find anything. After it sat and I began to drive it again, I disconnected the radio power wire (I had removed the head unit, anyway) and the stalling never happened again. (then, I sold it)

Meticulous maintenance with oil changes will keep this car running FOREVER.

Most parts are easy to get to so it is very easy to fix in your driveway, if need be.

It handles like it's stitched to the road - never had a problem in snow or rain, either.

Peppy 1.8L gives that extra 'boost' needed out of the box and on the highway.

The seats envelop you on all sides, keeping your torso in line around all those tight curves!

This car has lots of info on the net about modifications - owning a VW is like joining a family, owning a GTI is like joining a frat!

I only sold it b/c everyone warned me about the high mileage (against my better judgment, I let this one go) - it ran like a champ, started every time and shifted like butter!

I've driven a few other cars since I sold this GTI and none drive as well as this little 'pocket rocket'!!