1977 Volkswagen Scirocco GL review from Pakistan

The car was too new tech when it arrived in Pakistan.

The first thing to go was the radiator fan thermo-switch; that took a while to figure out and source (from Europe!). This, along with the thermostat valve) have been regular requirements.

The next niggle were the valve-stem seals at about 30,000 km.

Carburettor adjustments are a pain.

Next the CV joint boots; also a regular replacement item.

It developed rust and needed a re-spray at 21 years.

Routine rubber items like hoses and bushings, but these are now more and more difficult to find and the worst time was driving into a Classic Car show and have a hose burst - very dramatic and embarrassing!

Arranging parts is becoming increasingly difficult.

A superb combination of style, reliability, performance and economy; still turns heads and can be used daily.

The handling and road grip have always gratified, specially in the late seventies, but still pretty good. I can take the outside line at round abouts even today!

I was recently raced from the lights by a current Volvo and was alongside till 100 kph (62 mph) and had to back off for traffic. On confirming, it appears that she's still doing the job in just over 10 seconds, as original.

The interior has maintained its looks and looks like new. While the re-paint it was strange to discover the amount of handiwork put in by Karmann in terms of fittings; surely a lot of hand fitted items throughout.

One of the best standard equipped seats I have ever used.

I can usually park without worries about vandalism.

Waiting for it to become the true classic that it deserves.