1986 Volkswagen Golf C review from UK and Ireland

The heater matrix was leaking, as was the plastic box attached to the engine (part of the cooling system), the former was result of a known Golf mk2 fault in the system - there is a free recall for mk2s. Managed to get VW to pay for a new heater matrix.

Dashboard coolant temperature gauge was faulty.

Driver's seat doesn't go forward (3 door)... something snapped I think.

Interior fan broke (got really loud) - needed a scrapyard replacement..

2 bulbs gone..

1 CV boot needs replacing, nothing too major.

This car is a D reg and seems to go on forever. I do about 65 miles a day in the week, it has never broken down or stalled, and it starts first time everytime.

This version only 4 gears so motorway driving isn't that good if you want to cruise - revs about 4k at 70mph.

Small engine for the car but it handles well.

The pedals are heavy, especially the clutch.

Would recommend covers around the door handles to stop criminals getting in using a screwdriver (scissors in my case) under the door handle.

A fairly heavy car. Much better than equivalent Ford or Vauxhall and looks better too.

Economical, average 42mpg.

Will get a mk2 8v GTi next.