1987 Volkswagen GTI review from North America
"A quick and good handling hatch"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Clutch had to be replaced at 228,000km because of someone who didn't know how to drive!
Transmission seal broke at 240,000 and drained all fluid causing the transmission to nearly seize. A new seal was installed and fluid replaced and the transmission was as good as new.
Stock Recaro interior is starting to wear (noticeably on the drivers side)
Headliner is starting to fall down.
General comments?
Very practical and fun to drive car. It goes surprisingly quick for an 8v. Handles like no other front wheel drive car I've driven before.
Fuel economy is very good. Average about 7.0-7.5L/100km according to the in-dash computer.
The car is also very easy to work on. Tons of room in the engine bay and basic adjustments are very easy.
As an upgrade from my Ford LTD Wagon, this car is a huge, and very welcomed, difference.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8L 8v Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 220000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 278000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Ford LTD Country Squire |
| Date of Entry | 21st December, 2003 |