1986 Volkswagen Golf review from North America

Clutch started slipping at 490000km.

CV Joint started crunching at about the same time.

Passenger side rear wheel bearing failed destroying spindle at 530000km.

Glow plugs failed at 540000km.

Any one of the door handles will stop working every year or two.

Odometer stopped working at 551990km.

Rear wheel bearings wore out on both rear spindles at about 630000km.

Water pump started leaking at about 640000km.

Front shock struts are worn out now.

I was given this car after a friend who owned it died. He had the car from 300000km and drove it as though it were a race car.

I used the car for two weeks when he was out of town and fell in love with the car.

It is light, nimble, and cheaper to run than my motorcycle.

I commute over 100km a day and before the odometer broke I was getting over 1000km to a 50 liter fill-up. About 55mpg.

This is the best vehicle I have ever owned. Not the most prestigious or luxurious vehicle to be sure, but the cheapest and most fun.

I have traveled at over 150kph for 2 hours (in the rain) and felt the car was stable and safe.

The suspension is too soft for serious performance, but once the body roll stops it corners very well.