1996 Volkswagen Golf GTi 8v review from UK and Ireland

ABS warning light intermittently flashing. Needed new ABS pump which is over £300 from VW dealer. Is better value to get one second hand for about £100.

Gearbox making hissing sounds. Reconditioned gearbox fitted for £600.

Brakes screeching. Needed lubricating.

Central locking stopped functioning. New fuse needed.

On board computer kept presetting after turning ignition off. Again needed a new fuse.

Cigarette lighter not working. Replaced with new unit.

Rear axle bushes perished. New bushes fitted.

Having driven some performance hot hatchbacks I was fully aware that the Mark 3 Golf GTi was not of a similar type of car. It has enough power to overtake when needed although it is not to be compared with hot hatches such as the Clio 172 Cup. The 8v GTi is nothing spectacular but is more than sufficient for most drivers.

The car is very comfortable to be in and this is complemented by having heated leather seats.

There have been numerous electrical faults with the car although I think I have rectified most of these. Replacement parts are expensive and dealer servicing costs are extremely high so it is best using a reputable specialist.

My car has covered over 126k miles, but apart from a lot of stone chips to the front end you would not think it had covered this mileage. The interior has worn extremely well and there are very few rattles from the cabin. It appears to have been built properly!

Fuel economy is acceptable and I get around 35mpg with normal driving.

Overall this is a good solid car although be prepared to spend money on keeping it running as there are bound to be minor niggles that need rectifiying. I hope to keep it running for a substantial amount of time now I have spent a lot of money getting it fully fixed.