1987 Volkswagen Golf GL review from North America
"One solid little muscle"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
1. The fuel pump failed completely, there was an original recall after production, but with a Bosch replacement everything is fine. The fuel pump hesitates on a low tank still. This may be the internal pump in the fuel tank.
2. CV joint
3.Catalytic converter
4.Starter
5.Alternator
6.Motor mounts (2)
7.Door handles.
General comments?
For a car that is eighteen years old, this car is awesome.
First off the silver paint job probably containing lead to give it its durability, is probably in better shape than any other car just five years old.
With stock suspension and wheels with extra wide tires the car handles like a rally car.
Under the hood lies a beast. The 1.8 liter four banger cruises fine at 80 mph.
With a little pedal to the metal the car quickly reaches 90 and 100 mph like a v8.
If the oil is maintained and changed once a month or every 1500 miles then you will see a difference in performance as well.
Not only does the oil have to be maintained, but so does the tranny fluid for maximum performance. As long as there is a nice transmission with the gears changing you should be fine, but if there is any hesitation, just add a lil fluid until you can accelerate from 0-30 and 30-60 with only one change in the gear transmission. Don't rely on the dipstick. 5 qts. total should be fine. The tranny fluid should be changed at regulary scheduled intervals.
I do have a flowmaster exhaust that came with the car when I bought it. This gives it a lot more power along with my new straight pipe and catalytic converter for optimum air flow.
The seats are starting to wear in the front and the air conditioning filter is breaking apart, but everything is maintaining otherwise with proper care and maintenance.
Recommended reviews
| Yet another satisfied VW customer |
| If you get one (new), take care of it, because it will outlive you |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1987 |
| Year of manufacture | 1987 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 138454 miles |
| Most recent distance | 165200 miles |
| Date of Entry | 24th January, 2006 |