1988 Volkswagen Golf GTi review from UK and Ireland
"Fantastic, buy one whilst you can still find a good example"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Water pipe split in traffic on the M25 but I had been sat there for 2 hours.
Heater matrix split pouring boiling hot coolant over myself and my passengers legs, not a pretty sight... VW refused to replace/fix it despite a recall (which the car hadn't been through).
Alarm went up the wall - no fault of the car, but I will never by a Clifford alarm again.
Usual wear and tear items for MOT such a CV gaitors.
General comments?
The best fun you can have in an appreciating classic.
I prefer the 8 valve engine because of the torque. Fantastic power from the start.
Superb handling, bettered with uprated poly bushes throughout and a Boge Turbogas lowered and uprated suspension kit.
The bolster on the drivers seat wore with time, but this can be expected of a car of this age and mileage.
Search for New and Used Volkswagen Golfs available in the UK
Click here to advertise your car
Recommended reviews
  | Nothing of this age comes close |
| High performance and easy to maintain, an excellent buy |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1988 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 - 8v Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 113000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 190000 miles |
| Previous car | Volvo 244 |
| Date of Entry | 27th February, 2006 |