1981 Volkswagen Rabbit L review from North America
"Most excellent economical long-lasting car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replace brake vacuum pump diaphragm every 60,000 miles.
Front vent window hinges broke loose (you have to tape or caulk the windows shut).
Replace front tires every 2 years and re-align front end. Alignment seems to be chronically toed-out.
Headliner came unglued from cardboard (re-attach it with pins).
Hood latch is wearing out.
There is an oil leak, probably from the head gasket, engine front; about 1 quart every 1000 miles.
General comments?
Very reliable and inexpensive car. It has lots of interior room. I can fit my entire bicycle, with front wheel off, inside the trunk with the back seat down.
Car has very little power, which affects climbing hills or heading into a stiff headwind. It saves a fortune on speeding tickets, though.
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| Your best friend on four wheels |
|
| A machine pure at soul |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1981 |
| First year of ownership | 1981 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6L diesel Manual |
| Performance marks | 3 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 300325 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Galaxy |
| Date of Entry | 24th June, 2003 |