1984 Volkswagen Polo Coupe review from UK and Ireland

Clutch at 72,000.

Front wheel bearings and windscreen washer pump at 80,000.

Fuel pump at 83,000.

Wiper stalk (the switch assembly on steering column) at 100,000.

A rear suspension spring, and both rear bearings at 100,000.

Both front suspension springs at 110,000.

Fuel gauge unreliable about 140,000 (probably sender unit on tank).

Rear brake master cylinder, thermostat and handbrake cable at 146,000.

Head gasket at 153,000.

Brake lines (MoT failure) at 167,000.

The above looks like a long list, but the car has been very reliable. At 184,000 miles it is using a little oil but running sweetly. The two occasions I remember when it failed me were:

1. Points burnt out/fuel filter clogged after dodgy petrol in Durham (1996).

2. Engine died 50 yards from home (2000). Fault was traced to a blocked carb jet.

I don't think either was avoidable.

I bought it after driving the 1100cc model 400+ miles in one day and finding it very comfy, despite recent surgery on my broken right leg. I'm 5 foot 4, and this car is a perfect size for me.

It handles better than the standard models, has a firmer ride. Brakes aren't great (spongy, little feedback), but I can still lock the front with a good stab.

I've been so happy with it I'm looking for another 1300cc coupe. The only rust, apart from stone chips, is on the inside of the tailgate, where water runs down inside.

Watch out for leaking door seals, they're easily fixed - try newsgroup uk.rec.autos.vw.watercooled for advice or see http://www.4130products.com/step/vapor/

Fitted a Pertronix Ignitor electronic points unit (replaces the points and condenser in distributor) in 1999, wish I'd done it sooner. I think they are now called Aldon in the UK.