1981 Volkswagen Pickup review from North America

"A truck like no other.."

What things have gone wrong with the car?

Engine needed replacement due to used car dealer's malfeasance... still the engine lasted a year before that. Has a 1.9 liter turbo-diesel without the turbo now.

Maintenance items like axles, suspension, drive belts, etc... NO PROBLEMS WHATSOEVER with the engine... new diesel injector pump at 200K...

General comments?

This is my THIRD VW pickup... crashed the first, 2nd was stolen, now this one... I LOVE THIS TRUCK!!! This one was a little slow (diesels aren't sports cars!!!) but the new pump GREATLY increased performance, though with a decrease in economy (not much though!!) It handles like a sports car even still...

Interior is a little cramped for passenger, but adequate for driver... good heater. VW is missing a HUGE opportunity by not bringing this model back again!!!

1 comment

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Model Year1981
First year of ownership1998
Most recent year of ownership2006
Engine and transmission 1.6 diesel Manual
Performance marks 5/10
Reliability marks 6/10
Comfort marks 4/10
Dealer Service marks  
Running Costs (higher is cheaper) 9/10
Distance when acquired60000 miles
Most recent distance212000 miles
Previous carVolkswagen Pickup
Date of Entry 11th February, 2006

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