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General => General discussion => Topic started by: jeremybarker on 17 November 2010, 12:50

Title: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 17 November 2010, 12:50
Now bear with me on this one, i'm new new Golfs, had my MK2 for 3 months now but when I began looking for a Golf I would have been just as happy with a nice MK3 GTI as I would a MK2, the MK2 just came up first, was close by and in the colour I wanted.

Why do peeps seem to have a bit of downer on the old MK3, surely they can't be that bad. I'm sure there not that much slower than respective MK2 or that the handling is much worse.

I'll be keeping my MK2 but i have a serious want for a MK3 as well and want to look for a reasonable VR6 at some point next year.

Feel free to enlighten me while i'm lighting the touch paper and retiring to a safe distance.  :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 17 November 2010, 12:56
Oh no, dont do this!!  :undecided: :grin:

The mk3 was considered to soft to wear the gti badge. The suspension and ride were less focused than in a mk2 and despite the slightly increased power, the mk3 8v was considered a disapointment as a gti due to the increased weight (safety features - boring).
 The mk3 gti was aimed at a different market to the mk2 as well, it was seen as more of an executive compact than a sporty hatchback, which is what the term 'gti' was originally perceived to mean.

 Also, some people say that the mk3 is fat and ugly, but that is down to personal preferance as I prefer the looks of the mk3.  :lipsrsealed:

Lock thread, I cant take it any more. :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: A7 UFO on 17 November 2010, 13:01
the mk3 8v GTi, whilst not a bad car, was an embarrassment to those that had previously worn the GTi badge. 
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 17 November 2010, 13:03
Surely it only got worse with the MK4 n/a GTI, that was even more of a lardy arse before they put a Turbo on it. My nans Corsa could get to 60 quicker than a n/a Mk4 GTI (with her driving too)  :grin:

I would have said the MK2 was less focussed and softer than the MK1 it preceeded but still a great car. Surely with a few subtle tweaks to the suspension it would remove the softness.

I still think the MK3 looks the nuts and maybe it just needs a few more years to mature. Plus that VR6 still has one of the best engine notes that's come out of an engine.

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 17 November 2010, 13:08
I have noticed an increasingly positive attitude towards the mk3 over the 8 years that Ive owned them. Like you say, probably just needs a few  more years. The mk4 2.0 is generally regarded as the point when VW really had started takin the p!ss and had to do something about it (i.e turbo).
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 17 November 2010, 13:16
I don't dislike the MK4 either in fact there isn't a Golf I don't think looks great, makes me wonder why it took me so long to get one in the first place  :smiley:

There was a MK4 2.8 V6 4 motion on Autotrader, 60k and full leather for £3000, that's a hell of a lot of car for the money. Probably not sensible for every day useage with the price of petrol but as a weekend toy  :laugh:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 17 November 2010, 13:17
I like all the golfs too! Now is the best time to buy em as well as the used car market is dead!
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Wayne on 17 November 2010, 13:27
Mk1 and mk2 Golf GTI are great cars and heading for classic status, VW lost the way with the mk3 and mk4, mk5 is loads better still not sure on the mk6.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: VR6_Wherry on 17 November 2010, 13:37
This will explain everything...

 Mk2  (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyzCswJ_tkk)

 Mk3  (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyU7oqPEFxs)

I was amazingly disapointed when i went to buy my 2.0 8v GTi, thankfully the VR6 has restored some faith back  :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 17 November 2010, 13:40
Now i definatley want a mk3  :shocked: :shocked:

Mind you with the weight of that VR6 reckon it might be a bit closer  :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 17 November 2010, 13:41

I was amazingly disapointed when i went to buy my 2.0 8v GTi, thankfully the VR6 has restored some faith back  :grin:

I was, but after selling it and owning several other cars (fords) then I was actually well impressed to get back in one?!!  :huh:

I think the difference is that originally I went into a mk3 from a mk2 and didnt like it but then when I got a mk3 after an escort gti it felt better. :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: A7 UFO on 17 November 2010, 13:42
There was a MK4 2.8 V6 4 motion on Autotrader, 60k and full leather for £3000, that's a hell of a lot of car for the money. Probably not sensible for every day useage with the price of petrol but as a weekend toy  :laugh:
a weekend toy??  Toys are meant to be fun aren't they?
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 17 November 2010, 13:46
Oh yes they are, i previously had an Integrale Evo and TVR's but with the kids in nursery my toys have to be a bit more affordablefor the forseeable  :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Khare on 17 November 2010, 14:12
I actually prefer the mk3   :lipsrsealed:

Having owned a mk2 I think it was great as a car showing status and personality, and a good laugh here and there but as soon as I bought the mk3 it was in a different level. Much more grown up, more toys to play with, so much more usable especially in the winter. Where as I used to tread carefully in winter due to carb icing, extremely cold interior even with heaters on and leaks, with the mk3 its effortless and feels so much more solid.

The mk3 just needs some love and some nice things before they look good  :smiley:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tdi_blu on 17 November 2010, 14:13
I think its all about what you like,me I like the whole volkswagon range as I love all things vw if im honest  :grin: I think the main haters are the mk2 owners mainly because the mk2 is a older model and a classic now and this has increased its value over the mk3.If you decided to buy a good example mk2 Gti then you fall into the "classic" gti band like the mk1 gti which is a classic gti.Once your in this bubble no other gti is worthy of the gti badge hence why ever gti above the mk2 is crap in a minority of mk2 owners eyes.For me the true blood gti is the mk1 as it was the one that set the bench mark for ever other hot hatch to date,if I recall when the mk2 first came about the mk1 owners were saying how lardy and slow the mk2 was compared to the nibble mk1.So really it just goes full circle the mk3 is getting all the flank now and soon enough it will become a classic gti like the mk1 and mk2 and so on  :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Dan_GTi8v on 17 November 2010, 14:16
Basically, people are easily led by others who they think are 'cool' and a majority of people cant have their own opinions, or are scared to air them as the 'cool' people will dissagree

mk3 is sexy  :cool:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Agreeable Slick on 17 November 2010, 14:27
Khare, you can't compare a carbed mk2 to a injection mk3 :wink:

MK3 was a let down in terms of "GTI" simple as that. European safety laws saw to that.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: clipperjay on 17 November 2010, 14:32
In all my years I've never owned a MK3 been in a VR6 and thought yeah it moves......!
I've even had a MK4 sorry a boat as a stop gap for six months. That was bad the inconvience module, worst attempt at making a golf with more ECU's than it needed due to laws.
The only MK3's that turned my head, where dark, mean looking and moody dark met grey what ever that colour suits it to a T!
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Wayne on 17 November 2010, 14:46

There was a MK4 2.8 V6 4 motion on Autotrader, 60k and full leather for £3000, that's a hell of a lot of car for the money. Probably not sensible for every day useage with the price of petrol but as a weekend toy  :laugh:


Not that good a car to be honest, very heavy and not that quick.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tdi_blu on 17 November 2010, 15:26
^^you owned one wayne or sorry driven one??
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Khare on 17 November 2010, 15:30
Khare, you can't compare a carbed mk2 to a injection mk3 :wink:

MK3 was a let down in terms of "GTI" simple as that. European safety laws saw to that.

I agree, but in terms of living with it it's the same. In terms of engine the mk3 will obviously be more efficient and usable.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: The Mighty Elvi on 17 November 2010, 15:40
I had the use of a MK3 GTI for month, got to say it was sh!te, very sh!te.

It got me from a-b, but that was about the limit of its reason for being. It terms of GTi'ness The MK2, depite being older, is light years ahead.

Each to their own I suppose.  If you can't handle the MK2, then stick with what you've got I say.

P.S.

If a MK3 GTi is your first car then on the plus side you've now experienced the true meaning of the word: disappointment.

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 17 November 2010, 15:42
The mk3 was considered to soft to wear the gti badge.

Don't really need to say any more.  It should have been badged GLi

Also, some people say that the mk3 is fat and ugly

That's because it is.  Strip one down - the door bars alone must weight more than 10kg, then there's a huge metal superstructure under the dash, too.  It looks like VW were caught on the hop by the demands for safety so they just nailed reinforcement in, rather than designing things stronger and lighter.  I suspect if you get to work and strip out the tat it'd be a good car, as the basic shell's probably stiffer and not a lot heavier, but you'd need to do so much to get it to that point, whereas the G2 is good straight outta the box and even better when you add ABF fairydust to it.

Andres the 2.0 won't be any more efficient than the 1.8 digi, to be honest, especially not dragging all the tat inside it around, either.

The steel used by VW around this period also seems to have been rubbish - T4 and G3s rust at a rate only previously seen in Fords (not the Alfa super-rate though).  Through most of the G2 production the steel seems to have been exceptionally high quality, as per the Audi 100 and others of that era.

The only quality the G3 might have as time rolls on is that not that many were actually made due to poor demand and more limited time production than the previous generation Golfs.  Thing is there aren't many Austin Allegros left, but it doesn't mean they've got any better over the years, they've just become 'cherished' by certain bozos, probably for very sentimental reasons.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Wayne on 17 November 2010, 15:54
^^you owned one wayne or sorry driven one??

Driven 2 plus a couple of V5's, 4mo to me seemed very flat might be because it is so heavy.



That's because it is.  Strip one down - the door bars alone must weight more than 10kg, then there's a huge metal superstructure under the dash, too.  It looks like VW were caught on the hop by the demands for safety so they just nailed reinforcement in, rather than designing things stronger and lighter.  I suspect if you get to work and strip out the tat it'd be a good car, as the basic shell's probably stiffer and not a lot heavier, but you'd need to do so much to get it to that point, whereas the G2 is good straight outta the box and even better when you add ABF fairydust to it.


Yes a mk2 is much better but people seem to forget that they are getting harder and harder to find plus they are getting expensive.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Phil1980 on 17 November 2010, 16:00
VW definately lost their way with the GTI's on the mk3.  Mk5 was the next car they produced worthy of the GTI badge, except the mk4 anniversary.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: VR6_Wherry on 17 November 2010, 16:04
I still think the MK3 Golf VR6 should have been labelled as a GTi instead.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Khare on 17 November 2010, 16:24
I agree with DH about a well sorted mk3 being better then a mk2, as it will be stiffer overall. Also, as far as I know vw used thinner steel for the mk3 shell to save money and because the shells were galvanized, so better protection. They rust easily because of the thinner shell though.

I agreed that  of the box the mk2 will be better.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: The Mighty Elvi on 17 November 2010, 16:38
I agree with DH about a well sorted mk3 being better then a mk2...


I'm sorry, I missed that bit.  Where did he say that.  :rolleyes:

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 17 November 2010, 16:52
I didn't.

I'd be interested to get hold of a VR6 Syncro and track-prep it to see what it was like against mine, but weight is the enemy for handling, so it'd need a lot of work.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: AudiA8Quattro on 17 November 2010, 17:07
Mk3 gti 16v was ok. 8v was a bit slow, but to be honest the 8v mk2 isn't great.
I like the mk3, its more comfortable to drive in old age.
Once the suspension is sorted  :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Khare on 17 November 2010, 17:09
I suspect if you get to work and strip out the tat it'd be a good car, as the basic shell's probably stiffer and not a lot heavier, but you'd need to do so much to get it to that point, whereas the G2 is good straight outta the box and even better when you add ABF fairydust to it.


To me that tells me he's saying a sorted mk3 is as good if not better than a mk2. But with lots of work needed.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 17 November 2010, 17:33
You'd need a datum on my opinion of a Golf2, which you don't technically have, but on the basis that I own one it's a high datum. 

There are plenty of good cars out there, I don't own any of them.  I have the really good ones.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Dan_GTi8v on 17 November 2010, 17:43
It's funny how all the mk2 owners hate mk3's and all the mk3 owners prefer mk3's :)

I think there are more than one way to look at this. All I really see from the mk2 owners is arguments about performance, I'm sure If you get a cardboard box and put a good engine in it it would out perform the mk2, but thats not really the point is it

mk3 is safer, more comfortable, more practical, warmer in the winter, and cooler in the summer. To me that makes it an improvement over the mk2 :)
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 17 November 2010, 17:47
mk3 is safer, more comfortable, more practical, warmer in the winter, and cooler in the summer.

Yes, lots of attributes you could pin to a sofa.

You somehow seem to have avoided mentioning handling prowess, which is kinda the point of a Golf5, but you crack on with missing the point, as VW did with the G3.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: AudiA8Quattro on 17 November 2010, 17:50
Quote from: diamond hell
Yes, lots of attributes you could pin to a sofa.

What's wrong with that?
Driving the A8 is like driving up the road in your favourite armchair.
Nice  :tongue:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: DrewGTI on 17 November 2010, 17:51
It's funny how all the mk2 owners hate mk3's and all the mk3 owners prefer mk3's :)

I think there are more than one way to look at this. All I really see from the mk2 owners is arguments about performance, I'm sure If you get a cardboard box and put a good engine in it it would out perform the mk2, but thats not really the point is it

mk3 is safer, more comfortable, more practical, warmer in the winter, and cooler in the summer. To me that makes it an improvement over the mk2 :)


I'm a former lover of the mk3 (well still am) and have had two! found my mate a mint example of a mk2 8v which he brought last year and i've drove! loved it! so many months when by and i brought a mk2 16v not so long ago! love it! have the mk2 and the mk3 still and the mk2 is just so much more fun to drive! not just that but doesn't feel as sluggish as a mk3. may not have as many modern comforts as a mk3 but is far more FUN!  :smiley:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: LazyLunatic on 17 November 2010, 17:52
I still think the MK3 Golf VR6 should have been labelled as a GTi instead.

Was in the US.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jimmyb on 17 November 2010, 18:08
ive had a few mk2 gti`s and then i moved onto a vr6, i thought i was going to be made redundant earlier this year and sold the vr6 and got a cheap mk2 gti,after my vr6 the mk2 felt crap to be fair,it felt like something was missing and it was! it turned out to be 1litre of engine,2 pistons and 4 valves,ive never been in a mk3 gti,(so i cant comment on them) if you do get a vr6 the first thing you will notice is how refined and smooth they are. but personally this just makes me treat the car with more respect. the second thing you will notice is the addictive thing THAT ENGINE NOTE! get a vr mate you wont be disappointed ;)
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 17 November 2010, 18:14
the first thing you will notice is how refined and smooth they are.

Ah yes - refined and smooth - precisely the sort of thing one looks for in a GTI.....
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Mr Blue on 17 November 2010, 18:24
mk3's are not too bad. ABF and VR6 highlines are my favorite.

Just dont have the icon status i guess?

and rust like mad! :laugh:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tigerj360 on 17 November 2010, 18:30
its like premiership football, mk3's are Chelsea and mk2's the Fulham.

They call it a derby but in reality Fulham hate Chelsea and Chelsea just feel sorry for Fulham.

same works with the golfs  :grin:

*gets some popcorn*
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Dan_GTi8v on 17 November 2010, 18:31
mk3 is safer, more comfortable, more practical, warmer in the winter, and cooler in the summer.

Yes, lots of attributes you could pin to a sofa.

You somehow seem to have avoided mentioning handling prowess, which is kinda the point of a Golf5, but you crack on with missing the point, as VW did with the G3.

you must be one of the few dubbers that runs on standard suspension then i assume  :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 17 November 2010, 18:33
Ive never had any problems with rust on any of my mk3's?! Im not denying that they rust as so many people have mentioned it, but surely it cant be that bad?! Ive had alot worse rust on previous citroens, fords and renaults. :undecided:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 17 November 2010, 18:37
you must be one of the few dubbers that runs on standard suspension then i assume  :rolleyes:

did for a long time, but my Golf is a track car.

Still have standard suspension on the Passat and put my Corrado back to standard - handles much better. :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Phil1980 on 17 November 2010, 18:46
its like premiership football, mk3's are Chelsea and mk2's the Fulham.

They call it a derby but in reality Fulham hate Chelsea and Chelsea just feel sorry for Fulham.

same works with the golfs  :grin:

*gets some popcorn*


Mk3's Are League One
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: weazgti on 17 November 2010, 18:57
Did like my mk3 as a £300 runaround but i wanted a mk2 again. My wife said i would be making a mistake going back to an old car and when i got in my mk2 i thought she was right.
But then i thrashed it back home and enjoyed it,something i never did with the mk3.
Could not believe how much more livelier it was.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 17 November 2010, 18:59
I'd hardly label a MK2 8v GTI as a quick car either and i don't have the urge to chuck it around really, after my last TVR it was never going to offer anything like the shove you get but i bought it for different reasons hence why i wouldn't expect a MK3 to be a sharp handling rocket ship. Don't get me wrong when i do get a MK3 VR6 i would seriously consider pointing it towards being a track day car, suspension, polybushed, decent discs/pads and some sticky 888's as with the noise on top it would be cheap thrills. The TVR was a pain in the arse on trackdays as the exhaust was about 120 db and failed everywhere unless i bolted two flipping big silencers on the back.

Is there much of a performance difference between a MK3 16v and VR6?
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Thom89 on 17 November 2010, 19:00
I've said it before, the Mk1 was bang on in every way, when the GTI version came out, it blew everyone away, and with no Achilles heel either... and stood there alone for a number of years, untouched by anything else, waiting for everyone else to play catch up, which they did.
Along came the Mk2 GTI in the early 80s, and did it again, the Mk2 is little more than a face lift of the Mk1, so was bound to be a hit, although the opposition had moved well and truly in. with the likes of the Astra GTE, XR3i, MG Maestro and the 205 GTI. which had the same sort of effect as the  MK1 that started it all in the first place,
When the Mk3 GTI came out, it was dead in the water, from the word go, the opposition was just so much better, and a lot cheaper too, and thats when it had its stigma attached, that seems to have stayed with it till this day,
The Mk3 was not a Golf, it was just a car that VW produced that they stuck a Golf badge on...

Thom
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: JC on 17 November 2010, 19:00
its like premiership football, mk3's are Chelsea and mk2's the Fulham.

They call it a derby but in reality Fulham hate Chelsea and Chelsea just feel sorry for Fulham.

same works with the golfs  :grin:

*gets some popcorn*


what the fcuk does that make sunderland then  :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Thom89 on 17 November 2010, 19:04
Mk5/6 :lipsrsealed:

Thom
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: The Mighty Elvi on 17 November 2010, 19:13
its like premiership football, mk3's are Chelsea and mk2's the Fulham.

They call it a derby but in reality Fulham hate Chelsea and Chelsea just feel sorry for Fulham.

same works with the golfs  :grin:

*gets some popcorn*


Comments from you in the 1.6 are as about as useful as 3D glasses for Ruprecht.

Shhhhh.

 

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 17 November 2010, 19:15
Gotta be honest - Im gonna have to google that!!  :grin: :lipsrsealed:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: LowlifeDubber on 17 November 2010, 19:47
Ive had 2xMK2 Golfs 8v and 16v and a couple of MK3's i prefer the look of the fatboy tbh,the mk2's were lively but imo non of the Golfs have been that fast.Ive had a few Japs,fastest being a 300zx 3.0 v6 twin turbo,200sx,3000gt also had MK1,2,3 Astra gte and the Mk1 was my favourite even though the mk2 was faster.
Im just about to build a vr6 turbo lump to put in the current mk3,it will be quick,it will be fun,but still wont be earth shattering and the wheels are being driven from the wrong end,but i will still love it.

I think people just get in their own little groups/bubbles and stick to their guns.It makes interesting forum reading if nothing else. :grin:

Can't everyone just get along and THINK OF THE CHILDREN!! :cry:



OH AND IT'S BOUGHT NOT FLUCKING BROUGHT!!! :laugh:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: The Mighty Elvi on 17 November 2010, 20:06
Ive had 2xMK2 Golfs 8v and 16v and a couple of MK3's i prefer the look of the fatboy tbh,the mk2's were lively but imo non of the Golfs have been that fast.Ive had a few Japs,fastest being a 300zx 3.0 v6 twin turbo,200sx,3000gt also had MK1,2,3 Astra gte and the Mk1 was my favourite even though the mk2 was faster.
Im just about to build a vr6 turbo lump to put in the current mk3,it will be quick,it will be fun,but still wont be earth shattering and the wheels are being driven from the wrong end,but i will still love it.

I think people just get in their own little groups/bubbles and stick to their guns.It makes interesting forum reading if nothing else. :grin:

Can't everyone just get along and THINK OF THE CHILDREN!! :cry:



OH AND IT'S BOUGHT NOT FLUCKING BROUGHT!!! :laugh:

Just for a starter then. :grin:

1. I've.
2. I not i.
3. None not non.
4. Double space after a full stop.
5. I'm.
6. Single space after each comma.
7. Won't


Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 17 November 2010, 20:11
Maybe we could suggest a spell checking button when your posting  :smiley:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: LowlifeDubber on 17 November 2010, 20:28

Just for a starter then. :grin:

1. I've.
2. I not i.
3. None not non.
4. Double space after a full stop.
5. I'm.
6. Single space after each comma.
7. Won't




 :grin: I thought to myself "i'd bettr mak sure mi grammur is correckt in dis powst or i whill get loads of grief aftur dat last coment"
But then decided i couldn't be bothered. :laugh:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: The Mighty Elvi on 17 November 2010, 20:31
You live by the sword, you die by the sword.


Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: The Mighty Elvi on 17 November 2010, 20:33
Maybe we could suggest a spell checking button when your posting  :smiley:

YOU'RE.

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Thom89 on 17 November 2010, 20:49
Maybe we could suggest a spell checking button when your posting  :smiley:

YOU'RE.



You bin on a date with DH by any chance :wink:

Thom
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: clipperjay on 17 November 2010, 21:46
Ive had 2xMK2 Golfs 8v and 16v and a couple of MK3's i prefer the look of the fatboy tbh,the mk2's were lively but imo non of the Golfs have been that fast.Ive had a few Japs,fastest being a 300zx 3.0 v6 twin turbo,200sx,3000gt also had MK1,2,3 Astra gte and the Mk1 was my favourite even though the mk2 was faster.
Im just about to build a vr6 turbo lump to put in the current mk3,it will be quick,it will be fun,but still wont be earth shattering and the wheels are being driven from the wrong end,but i will still love it.

I think people just get in their own little groups/bubbles and stick to their guns.It makes interesting forum reading if nothing else. :grin:

Can't everyone just get along and THINK OF THE CHILDREN!! :cry:



OH AND IT'S BOUGHT NOT FLUCKING BROUGHT!!! :laugh:

Just for a starter then. :grin:

1. I've.
2. I not i.
3. None not non.
4. Double space after a full stop.
5. I'm.
6. Single space after each comma.
7. Won't




Start a thread giving classes to the masses!  :wink: Its alright to point out these mistakes, but no point if you don't explain why we use nouns, verbs, present, past, ownership, grammer etc..... :tongue:   
I'll start simples Classic why do we use There and Their
Look over there! "There" is used when describing something in location or a place.
Excuse me? Is their a problem sir? "Their" describes possessive adjective.

Jay

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jimmyb on 17 November 2010, 21:51
Ive had 2xMK2 Golfs 8v and 16v and a couple of MK3's i prefer the look of the fatboy tbh,the mk2's were lively but imo non of the Golfs have been that fast.Ive had a few Japs,fastest being a 300zx 3.0 v6 twin turbo,200sx,3000gt also had MK1,2,3 Astra gte and the Mk1 was my favourite even though the mk2 was faster.
Im just about to build a vr6 turbo lump to put in the current mk3,it will be quick,it will be fun,but still wont be earth shattering and the wheels are being driven from the wrong end,but i will still love it.

I think people just get in their own little groups/bubbles and stick to their guns.It makes interesting forum reading if nothing else. :grin:

Can't everyone just get along and THINK OF THE CHILDREN!! :cry:



OH AND IT'S BOUGHT NOT FLUCKING BROUGHT!!! :laugh:

some nice motors there mate,like the sound of the mk1 astra gte! and yeh your right, sometimes i think im on english.co.uk then i scroll up and see golfgti.co.uk, this forums 100x more strict than my english teacher was!
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jimmyb on 17 November 2010, 21:54
its like premiership football, mk3's are Chelsea and mk2's the Fulham.

haha that says it all,mk3s are quality and mk2s are chit!! lol joke joke there not chit,but not as good as mk3s
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Dan_GTi8v on 17 November 2010, 22:06
It seems mk2 owners hate mk3s because their owners arn't anal about spell checking  :laugh:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jimmyb on 17 November 2010, 22:13
lmao its not the leaky sunroof or the dodgy heater matrix that bothers them,,its the FULL STOP.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: The Mighty Elvi on 17 November 2010, 22:16

Excuse me? Is their a problem sir? "Their" describes possessive adjective.

Jay



Now. You're quite sure about that are you?


Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 17 November 2010, 22:18

Excuse me? Is their a problem sir? "Their" describes possessive adjective.

Jay



Now. You're quite sure about that are you?






there  :lipsrsealed:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: dom on 17 November 2010, 22:19

Excuse me? Is their a problem sir? "Their" describes possessive adjective.

Jay



Now. You're quite sure about that are you?






there  :lipsrsealed:

 :laugh: I was just about to point that out!
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tdi_blu on 17 November 2010, 22:21
I dont think it really matters what you say on here when this topic pops up if your a mk3 owner you will just be told  how good a mk2 is and how sh!t your mk3 is simple as that.What I have noticed is its mainly mk2 owners that spread the hate about how bad a car the mk3 is.Main thing is Im happy with my mk3 and dont listen to much to the haters as the mk3 is a great car and deserves its gti badge just as much as the rest of the gti range.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 17 November 2010, 22:22
I dont think it really matters what you say on here when this topic pops up if your a mk3 owner you will just be told  how good a mk2 is and how sh!t your mk3 is simple as that.What I have noticed is its mainly mk2 owners that spread the hate about how bad a car the mk3 is.Main thing is Im happy with my mk3 and dont listen to much to the haters as the mk3 is a great car and deserves its gti badge just as much as the rest of the gti range.

Exactly, I love mine but end up taking the bait usually. :grin: :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jimmyb on 17 November 2010, 22:22
I dont think it really matters what you say on here when this topic pops up if your a mk3 owner you will just be told  how good a mk2 is and how sh!t your mk3 is simple as that.What I have noticed is its mainly mk2 owners that spread the hate about how bad a car the mk3 is.Main thing is Im happy with my mk3 and dont listen to much to the haters as the mk3 is a great car and deserves its gti badge just as much as the rest of the gti range.

i agree :)  and nice motor!
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: clipperjay on 17 November 2010, 22:35

Excuse me? Is their a problem sir? "Their" describes possessive adjective.

Jay



Now. You're quite sure about that are you?




Just checking  :wink:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: The Mighty Elvi on 17 November 2010, 22:37
The day a MK3 owner admits the MK2 is better is like the day Dale Winton admits he's gay.

Secretly we all know it's true, but we're just waiting for the glorious validation.

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jimmyb on 17 November 2010, 22:38
mk3s will be about long after mk2s :P
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 17 November 2010, 22:41
Yep (yes), Mk2 owners will still need to get "their" engines from somewhere.  :grin:

Please feel free to chk and coreckt my gramr  :laugh:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: LowlifeDubber on 17 November 2010, 22:43
mk3s will be about long after mk2s :P
That's if they havn't butchered them all,to rob the engines for their underpowered cars :grin:

edit:beat me too it :laugh:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 17 November 2010, 22:51
What I have noticed is its mainly mk2 owners that spread the hate about how bad a car the mk3 is.

Hey, don't pull that one out - I've owned quite a number of G3s over the past few years.

Crushed every single one of the f*ckers once I've removed the ABF goodness to go into a G2.

Hybridisation is the name of the game - you take something good and then selectively add the good thing from something else to create a single item with hybrid vigour.  I give you the ABFed Golf2 (or VR6 if you're some sort of anti-handling goon).

The important thing is you jettison the rubbish to create the glorious hybrid.

By rubbish I mean the Golf3 shell and everything aside from the engine and gearbox really.  :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Jimp on 17 November 2010, 22:58
I go to Chat - VW related. My eye instantly picks up the work MK3 and that the thread is 8 pages long. Before even reading the thread title I think "hate thread, must be." and sure enough it is  :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 17 November 2010, 23:08
Its not really the worst one ive seen to be fair. :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 17 November 2010, 23:09
Not from me, maybe I should have asked "how many MK2 owners like MK3's"  :laugh:

Yes I think my MK2 is a great little car but as their so cheap I'm really liking the MK3 shape more and more. A bit more refinement, awesome VR6 and with  a few tweaks should make for a decent handling car.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jimmyb on 17 November 2010, 23:10
yes but you cant nick a golf mk2 floorpan out of a mk3 :)
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Wayne on 17 November 2010, 23:23
The day a MK3 owner admits the MK2 is better is like the day Dale Winton admits he's gay.

Secretly we all know it's true, but we're just waiting for the glorious validation.



I had a mk3 8v GTI and am happy to say that a mk2 is leagues better even a 8v is a better drive.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 17 November 2010, 23:25
Guess i'll have to wait and drive one for myself.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jimmyb on 17 November 2010, 23:28
well i do actually love mk2s but i love mk3s more,whatever floats your boat. and heyy if its a golf and its got gti or vr6 on the back just enjoy!!!  :)
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: danny_p on 17 November 2010, 23:59
i've driven  a fair few mk3's  the 8v GTi's  imo have absolutly no GTi ness about them at all  what proved the point to me was the last one i breifly owned i didn't even realise was a GTi  till i got bored and started reading the paperwork one day. if thet had only badged the 16v as a gti  it would have been a disapintment compared to the mk2 16v  but there if a glimmer of gti ness about it. 

wheas you can jump in a mk2 and you'll know about it's gti ness when you meet some nice corners
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tdi_blu on 18 November 2010, 08:42
The mk2 is no more a Gti than the mk3.We keep hearing how slow the mk3 is and poor handling and now we have people who dont even know there driving one :laugh: Why is the mk2 so much more a Gti than the mk3? Well it isnt simple fact is the mk2 did not hold its own and keep the Gti tradtion alive no more than the mk3 Gti has.When a little french car came along the Peugeot 205 GTI it slaughtered it in performance and handling and it even claimed the title as the best hot hatch which the mk1 had retained for so long.The germans answer was the  mighty 16v  what a improvment that was :grin: not really even the 8v will still do it off the lights  :huh: yet according to people on here its so fast so much fun to drive with its crisp handling which I think is a slight exaggeration.Ive lost count of how many mk2 gti ive owned and enjoyed over the years but if im honest the mk2 is average just like the mk3.The only Gti to ever put a real smile on my face is the mk1 the true badge bearer.I agree the mk3 is not fast compared with alot of cars but the mk2 is no rocket ship either.Both cars have good points and bad,both have there own following both deserve the badge.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: VR6_Wherry on 18 November 2010, 09:04
The day a MK3 owner admits the MK2 is better is like the day Dale Winton admits he's gay.

Secretly we all know it's true, but we're just waiting for the glorious validation.


I would much prefer to have a Mk2 then a Mk3!

I was sitting in my Mk3 2.0 8v GTI, one mate in his VR6 and another in his G60...

Woop bye G60, woop bye VR6...where was i...might as well of not moved at all, i was left for dust! I think the only reason the VR6 came out was because of how bad the Mk3 'GTi' was...

That will be the last time i comment... :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tdi_blu on 18 November 2010, 09:15
The day a MK3 owner admits the MK2 is better is like the day Dale Winton admits he's gay.

Secretly we all know it's true, but we're just waiting for the glorious validation.


I would much prefer to have a Mk2 then a Mk3!

I was sitting in my Mk3 2.0 8v GTI, one mate in his VR6 and another in his G60...

Woop bye G60, woop bye VR6...where was i...might as well of not moved at all, i was left for dust! I think the only reason the VR6 came out was because of how bad the Mk3 'GTi' was...

That will be the last time i comment... :grin:

well considering the 8v is only 115bhp what do you expect up against a 172 bhp VR6 and a G60 super charged its hardly a fair line up is it  :shocked: so do you think a mk2 8v would do much better then? Why not sell the VR6 and buy a mk2  :smiley:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 18 November 2010, 09:19
^ Good point.

The thing Ive noticed is that everyone who has owned a mk2 has loved it whereas there is a split between people that have actually owned a mk3, some like em, some dont.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tdi_blu on 18 November 2010, 09:28
Comparing 8v gti to G60 and a VR6 is just not realistic really is it.Both cars have way much more under the bonnet going on and if im honest theres a car that did disappiont me apart from the sound is the VR6  :lipsrsealed:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 18 November 2010, 09:47
Ive lost count of how many mk2 gti ive owned and enjoyed over the years but if im honest the mk2 is average just like the mk3.

You must have driven some seriously ropey Golf2s.  :grin:

The germans answer was the  mighty 16v  what a improvment that was :grin: not really even the 8v will still do it off the lights 

eh?  8V 0-60 8.3 16V 0-60 7.9 .  If you're going to spout nonsense it's hardly going to get the rest of us to take you seriously.

I recently drove a 205, which was in very good repair and really didn't rate it versus the Golf2.  I found the steering wooden and very heavy.  The powersteering on the Golf2 just takes the edge off that weight so the controls are consistent.  The controls in the Pug were not consistently weighted.  I also didn't fit in the 205 very well, whereas I fit in a Golf2 very well (designed for big-a$$ed Germans, innit - and Chuff).  The 205 is a different proposition too - only available as a GTI in three door and there are so few of them left about these days vs the Golf2 that it really tells you something about the durability of them.

Viva Golf2s

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 18 November 2010, 09:54
I drove a mates 1.9 205 gti a while back and i didnt really like it either. I know the 1.6 is meant to be the one to go for though isnt it? I didnt even think it felt that quick?!
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Misky on 18 November 2010, 09:57
I simply bought a golf MK3 16v GTI to go up in the wolrd!  :lipsrsealed:
I was sick of driving cars that if you crashed over 40mph you will need to find yourself a wheel chair!  :laugh:
And to me thats how the mk2 felt!
No doubt the next car i will buy will be heavier & safer!
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tigerj360 on 18 November 2010, 10:00
its like premiership football, mk3's are Chelsea and mk2's the Fulham.

They call it a derby but in reality Fulham hate Chelsea and Chelsea just feel sorry for Fulham.

same works with the golfs  :grin:

*gets some popcorn*


what the fcuk does that make sunderland then  :grin:

Sunderland are the fiat chinquenttitoo or whatever there called  :grin:

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tdi_blu on 18 November 2010, 10:23
Ive lost count of how many mk2 gti ive owned and enjoyed over the years but if im honest the mk2 is average just like the mk3.

You must have driven some seriously ropey Golf2s.  :grin:

The germans answer was the  mighty 16v  what a improvment that was :grin: not really even the 8v will still do it off the lights 

eh?  8V 0-60 8.3 16V 0-60 7.9 .  If you're going to spout nonsense it's hardly going to get the rest of us to take you seriously.

I recently drove a 205, which was in very good repair and really didn't rate it versus the Golf2.  I found the steering wooden and very heavy.  The powersteering on the Golf2 just takes the edge off that weight so the controls are consistent.  The controls in the Pug were not consistently weighted.  I also didn't fit in the 205 very well, whereas I fit in a Golf2 very well (designed for big-a$$ed Germans, innit - and Chuff).  The 205 is a different proposition too - only available as a GTI in three door and there are so few of them left about these days vs the Golf2 that it really tells you something about the durability of them.

Viva Golf2s



8V 0-60 8.3 16V 0-60 7.9 this is gospel I take it  :laugh: if it was thats a huge improvment is it?
I have driven some ropey mk2s but ive also owned some very nice ones to 8v,16v and a Black Rally i bought and drove back from Holland back in the 90s as I said enjoyed them all.As for the Pug 205 init it was a far quicker car than the mk2 it was produced to rival the mk2 gti and it did  that hands down blind folded it was a far quicker livelier car and why make it a 4 door its a Gti not a MPV.Ive got 3 kids we have a seat Alhambra with 7 seats and 5 doors for them and all my golfs have been 3 doors as 3 doors looks better than a 4 door simple fact.Lets not forget the Astra GTE 16v,Escort series 1 RS turbo and Fiesta RS turbo all 3 door all faster than the mk2.Im not slagging the mk2 off I love the cars just as much as I love my mk3s that ive owned there all golfs and all different and some better in different ways init im just not  one eyed :smiley:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: VR6_Wherry on 18 November 2010, 10:43
Have to make another comment!  :grin:

I'm sorry but, i think 9 out of the 10 pages on here have missed the point completely! For once i actually agree with DH's comments...

When you think of GTI you think "Pocket Rocket" or "Hot Hatch" Remember GTI is noted as the "sport model" of the Golf line. GTi stands for "Grand Touring Injection" the boxes you would expect it to tick are.. Crisp handling, brisk acceleration and quality material build, for relative low cost.

It's not about what is better out of the Mk1/2/3/4/5!! It's about what fits in to that category. Frankly the Mk3 didn't where as the previous Mks did. It wasn't until the Mk4 Anni that it became a real GTI again (that's my opinion)

There is nothing wrong with Mk3, just it had to change due to safety laws.

I have a Mk3 VR6 because i like it, i can get big power out of it with the added safety features that a Mk2 didn't offer.

People need to come of there high horse and stop comparing the Mks, it's about what you expect from a GTI..


[/Thread]
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tdi_blu on 18 November 2010, 10:47
^^ Totally agree ^^ Trouble is they wont get of the horse they keep on going  :grin: By the way I was trying to get you to bite about the VR6  :wink:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: DrewGTI on 18 November 2010, 10:49
its like premiership football, mk3's are Chelsea and mk2's the Fulham.

They call it a derby but in reality Fulham hate Chelsea and Chelsea just feel sorry for Fulham.

same works with the golfs  :grin:

*gets some popcorn*


Comments from you in the 1.6 are as about as useful as 3D glasses for Ruprecht.

Shhhhh.

 


:grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: dubsport on 18 November 2010, 11:22
the mk3 8v GTi, whilst not a bad car, was an embarrassment to those that had previously worn the GTi badge. 

Funny as that has been one of my favorite cars ive owned. was quicker then my mk2, more comfy, and when lowered handled like a go kart
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 18 November 2010, 11:26
So what we are saying then is that the MK3 GTI was a bit of a disapointment, not as focussed as the previous Golfs but has potential.

Like i said my intentions were based on buying a decent example of a MK3 VR6

1. I like the shape of the MK3
2. You can get a decent MK3 VR6 for 2-2.5k
3. It sounds awesome and can produce a decent amount of bhp with minor fettling
4. Should respond well to some decent suspension, polybushing, brakes and be a fun toy i can use for trackdays.

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Agreeable Slick on 18 November 2010, 11:30
16v for track days, not the VR. Too heavy and too much weight towards the front.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: VR6_Wherry on 18 November 2010, 11:32
16v for track days, not the VR. Too heavy and too much weight towards the front.

+1

The VR6 down the strip on the other hand would be a good choice  :cool:

That's what my intentions with mine are for :afro:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tigerj360 on 18 November 2010, 12:17
its like premiership football, mk3's are Chelsea and mk2's the Fulham.

They call it a derby but in reality Fulham hate Chelsea and Chelsea just feel sorry for Fulham.

same works with the golfs  :grin:

*gets some popcorn*


Comments from you in the 1.6 are as about as useful as 3D glasses for Ruprecht.

Shhhhh.

 


:grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin:


hey leave my poor 1.6 out of this! im to young for a GTI  :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Wayne on 18 November 2010, 12:25
So what we are saying then is that the MK3 GTI was a bit of a disapointment, not as focussed as the previous Golfs but has potential.

Like i said my intentions were based on buying a decent example of a MK3 VR6

1. I like the shape of the MK3
2. You can get a decent MK3 VR6 for 2-2.5k
3. It sounds awesome and can produce a decent amount of bhp with minor fettling
4. Should respond well to some decent suspension, polybushing, brakes and be a fun toy i can use for trackdays.



If you want something for a trackday then get a mk2 much better bet than a mk3, as already posted the VR is to heavy on the front end.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: xkaty_h on 18 November 2010, 13:09
The germans answer was the  mighty 16v  what a improvment that was :grin: not really even the 8v will still do it off the lights

Surely a 8v will do a 16v off the lights as the 8v has more lower down torque and the 16v is higher? I may be entirely wrong but I thought that was the main difference between the two.
I really don't like the styling of the mk3 and it cant be ignored that it does resemble a house boat in both size, weight and generalness, buuut that's just a personal opinion.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 18 November 2010, 13:11
I've already got a MK2 but it's too nice to track and i really want to keep it OE, plus the reason for the VR6 was the noise, I'm past the point of wanting to go as fast as I can, the VR6 would give me enough fun factor plus if I want to be scared stupid I strap myself into the passenger seat of my mate Ben Winrow, then I realise what quick is. He last took me round Goodwood in a Caterham roadsport, the boy has no idea what brakes are for  :laugh:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Agreeable Slick on 18 November 2010, 13:13
The germans answer was the  mighty 16v  what a improvment that was :grin: not really even the 8v will still do it off the lights

Surely a 8v will do a 16v off the lights as the 8v has more lower down torque and the 16v is higher? I may be entirely wrong but I thought that was the main difference between the two.

You are entirely wrong. :smiley:

The 8v and 16v torque curves overlay almost exactly.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: xkaty_h on 18 November 2010, 13:14
The germans answer was the  mighty 16v  what a improvment that was :grin: not really even the 8v will still do it off the lights

Surely a 8v will do a 16v off the lights as the 8v has more lower down torque and the 16v is higher? I may be entirely wrong but I thought that was the main difference between the two.

You are entirely wrong. :smiley:

The 8v and 16v torque curves overlay almost exactly.

Ah pah.
Least I tried!  :smiley:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Agreeable Slick on 18 November 2010, 13:16
Don't worry, it's a common arguement that is used whenever 8v 16v topics come up.

16v just develops more power higher up, hence you have to run it above 4k to get the most out of it. 8v gives you all round drivability without having bleeding ears at the end of the drive.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Svelte Fog on 18 November 2010, 13:18
New member post....... :laugh:

I have at the moment a mk3 2.0 gti, no it's not quick by any stretch of the imagination but it is a Golf and it is better than an equivalent Escort or an Astra etc etc.
I have had a mk2 and i loved it untill some to**er stole it, i spent the following summer months looking around the car parks at every VW show i could get to just looking for my car, i never did find it.


Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Wayne on 18 November 2010, 13:20
Don't worry, it's a common arguement that is used whenever 8v 16v topics come up.

16v just develops more power higher up, hence you have to run it above 4k to get the most out of it. 8v gives you all round drivability without having bleeding ears at the end of the drive.

Quick question. which do you prefer  8 or 16v :smiley:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: clipperjay on 18 November 2010, 13:21
Another quick question G60 straped on 8V 16V  :evil:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Agreeable Slick on 18 November 2010, 13:26
Wayne: 16v - Mainly because I went from a 1300 brick of a mk2 to a valver as my second car and it was the car I learnt on as I rebuilt parts of it.

Jay: a LTD wannabe is never a bad choice :wink:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Wayne on 18 November 2010, 13:27

Wayne: 16v - Mainly because I went from a 1300 brick of a mk2 to a valver as my second car and it was the car I learnt on as I rebuilt parts of it.


Must have been a bit of a shock going from a 1.3 to a valver.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Agreeable Slick on 18 November 2010, 13:30
Of course, but at the time I was doing engineering in college so was more interested in how it worked than how fast i could kill myself. The valver happened to come along at the right time, for the right price (albeit the previous owner made the oil pump explode :laugh: ) and it gave me what I needed in terms of learning and enjoyment on 4 wheels.

One of the best cars I've driven, from a drivers point of view. :sad:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Wayne on 18 November 2010, 13:32
What did you replace it with out of interest.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Agreeable Slick on 18 November 2010, 13:34
Another Valver (BRM tuned)
then an audi 80 tdi avant love wagon whilst at uni
then a toledo V5 (thirsty thirsty car)
then a pair of feet.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Wayne on 18 November 2010, 13:36
Another Valver (BRM tuned)
then an audi 80 tdi avant love wagon whilst at uni
then a toledo V5 (thirsty thirsty car)
then a pair of feet.

Last one made me smile.  :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tony_ack on 18 November 2010, 13:43
If you want a VR6 AND a fun car to drive, why don't you just get a Corrado instead?
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 18 November 2010, 13:48
If you want a VR6 AND a fun car to drive, why don't you just get a Corrado instead?

Ive heard people say that regularly, but my answer is 'I like golfs'.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: ToddyGTi on 18 November 2010, 13:55
I agree with DH about a well sorted mk3 being better then a mk2, as it will be stiffer overall. Also, as far as I know vw used thinner steel for the mk3 shell to save money and because the shells were galvanized, so better protection. They rust easily because of the thinner shell though.

I agreed that  of the box the mk2 will be better.

Not wishing to dampen your bonfire fella but the MK3 used the same thickness steel as the MK2 but there was just more of it. Addtionally, the MK3 Golf did not have a galvernised body until 1994- and if it's galved, it won't rust at all unless the galv is scratched or damaged.

Other than that the chassis is a slight improvement over the MK2 but too overweight and under-powered to use it. When first developed the MK3 16V had 177hp and the VR6 was supercharged and ran 220hp approx but due to poor economic climate and rising insurance costs and two cars that would be competing with each other VW de-tuned them both so the 16V became the 150hp we know today and the VR6 lost it's supercharger.

out of the two? I'd have a MK2 everytime.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 18 November 2010, 13:57
Plus, and correct me when I'm wrong, but a similarly decent Rado VR6 would be double the money of a Golf VR6.

I'd definately consider it though, how much better is a Corrado VR6 over a MK3 Golf VR6. I suppose the flip side is that the Corrado will hold it's value better than the Golf.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Wayne on 18 November 2010, 14:03

When first developed the MK3 16V had 177hp and the VR6 was supercharged and ran 220hp approx but due to poor economic climate and rising insurance costs and two cars that would be competing with each other VW de-tuned them both so the 16V became the 150hp we know today and the VR6 lost it's supercharger.


Internet rumours, sorry to burst your bubble but the 16v never had 177bhp, it has been posted many times if that was the case it would be a dam sight easier to get more power out of it.

Also the 16v and VR were never made to compete with each other, the VR was aimed at the same market as Bmw's 325's etc whilst the 16v was the hot hatch
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: dom on 18 November 2010, 14:08

When first developed the MK3 16V had 177hp and the VR6 was supercharged and ran 220hp approx but due to poor economic climate and rising insurance costs and two cars that would be competing with each other VW de-tuned them both so the 16V became the 150hp we know today and the VR6 lost it's supercharger.


Internet rumours, sorry to burst your bubble but the 16v never had 177bhp, it has been posted many times if that was the case it would be a dam sight easier to get more power out of it.

Also the 16v and VR were never made to compete with each other, the VR was aimed at the same market as Bmw's 325's etc whilst the 16v was the hot hatch

I was gonna say, I thought that was all a myth!
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 18 November 2010, 14:49
So what we are saying then is that the MK3 GTI was a bit of a disapointment, not as focussed as the previous Golfs but has potential.

Correct.

4. Should respond well to some decent suspension, polybushing, brakes and be a fun toy i can use for trackdays.

All joking aside, if you want it specifically for track days then go for it - there are at least a couple of hard-campaigned VR6 G3 track cars I know of.

Move the battery and washer bottle out of the front, to where the rear bench should be, keep the spare in and add a 6-point cage and I suspect you'll maintain/improve the weight balance, so it shouldn't be too bad.

HOWEVER

You need to not mind the hike in fuel costs that comes with running nearly another litre of engine capacity.

If I was starting out to build a track car now I'd probably go find a VR6 Syncro in Germany because, provided you can get the rear end to participate I think it would be a very surprising device, especially if it were pressure-charged.  As it is, I made my proverbial bed a long time ago and I have a grippy, playful and fast track car, which is very different to most Golf2 track cars which, given a moist track can spank virtually anything that's not an Evo or Impreza.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: JC on 18 November 2010, 14:53
So what we are saying then is that the MK3 GTI was a bit of a disapointment, not as focussed as the previous Golfs but has potential.

Correct.

4. Should respond well to some decent suspension, polybushing, brakes and be a fun toy i can use for trackdays.

All joking aside, if you want it specifically for track days then go for it - there are at least a couple of hard-campaigned VR6 G3 track cars I know of.

Move the battery and washer bottle out of the front, to where the rear bench should be, keep the spare in and add a 6-point cage and I suspect you'll maintain/improve the weight balance, so it shouldn't be too bad.

HOWEVER

You need to not mind the hike in fuel costs that comes with running nearly another litre of engine capacity.

If I was starting out to build a track car now I'd probably go find a VR6 Syncro in Germany because, provided you can get the rear end to participate I think it would be a very surprising device, especially if it were pressure-charged.  As it is, I made my proverbial bed a long time ago and I have a grippy, playful and fast track car, which is very different to most Golf2 track cars which, given a moist track can spank virtually anything that's not an Evo or Impreza.

even when carrying Excess Ballast :afro:

 :smiley:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 18 November 2010, 15:08
even when carrying Excess Ballast

Yes, even the sort of ballast that's so girly it won't come to Germany....
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: VR6_Wherry on 18 November 2010, 15:27
 Hope this helps.. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQ57QlmCDgE&NR=1)
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: robz on 18 November 2010, 16:18
long thread :D
my 2p...

i got the dub bug and honestly could not decide between the 2! but in the end i saw my mk3 and loved it instantly, the way it drives is fantastic, what ruins mine is the ebay suspension, and until i can afford to replaced this then i never will throw it around!
for me it cruises brilliantly, overtakes easily, corners well, so its everything i wanted from a car!
lets face it, the golf is never gonna handle like a mini is it, cos ive still not droven anything that grips like those for similar money!
the corrado is out cos its too expensive to repair/maintain, hence why i sold mine!
for me, i want the vr, and i bought the 8v knowing the engine was shot, so once it has a little more power, and a good suspension set up, ill be happy!
with regards to looks, the mk2 is iconic, as the mk1 is. but standard, i agree the mk3 looks cack, the cars fine, just the crap wheels/lights, etc... attached to it make it look poo!
also, i just get to laugh at my mate with 2 mk2's, as when he has to spend every weekend fixing which ever one has broken, i can sit on my arse enjoying other things, or doing what i want to do with the car!
as said, depends what you want with a car, dh's interest is track, which in his experience is mk2, but as i have a speed limit of 70 mph and road rules to follow, then im happy with low n slow!
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 18 November 2010, 16:22
Welcome to the party Robz, what took you so long  :laugh:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 18 November 2010, 16:37
Welcome to the party Robz, what took you so long  :laugh:

That's how long it took his G3 to get here.  :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 18 November 2010, 17:52
He must have the 8v then.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: robz on 18 November 2010, 18:05
Well then dh, don't start on me :D
I travelled in comfort though ;)
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: emery1990 on 18 November 2010, 19:31
Why do people always say about looks of the mk3 and the comforts, its suspose to be a gti thats suspose to be mental, comfort and mental dont go together.

So annoying when people dont get the point that the mk3 was a let down in a performance way etc, it may be a comfortable car. Its like saying this, if after the mk2 gti they made the new gti like the caddy van now of today, ive got one and there comfy its got aircon and everything electric, would you still say the same thing ? Probably
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: robz on 18 November 2010, 19:35
The mk2 wasn't mental, unless you've just upgraded from a 1 litre corsa that is :D
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 18 November 2010, 20:12
Comfort and mental don't go together - disagree with this,

Lotus Carlton, Audi RS4, BMW M5 etc etc all looney tunes and more than comfortable.

I wouldn't really describe a hot hatch as mental, quick yes, even my previous Integrale although had massive amounts of grip  it wasn't ballistic like the TVR's were.

Let's face it, even if my MK2 8v still has 115 horses that it left the factory with it could never be described as hot, maybe they should be called midly warm hatches, it does drive and handle well for a 20 yr old car though  :wink:

At least the new generation of hot hatches Golf, Cupra etc seem to be back on the right track.

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 18 November 2010, 21:31
At least the new generation of hot hatches Golf, Cupra etc seem to be back on the right track.

No, I don't think they are actually - they're fat, heavy and bloated.

These cars are stuffed full of stuff which doesn't add to the driving experience, it adds to the 'lifestyle' experience, which I really couldn't give a f*ck about.

I've been in the passenger seat of Hurdy's Golf for a lap of the 'ring (and IIRC) he rode shotgun in mine, too.  The experiences were poles apart.  The experience in the Golf2 was slower (no sh!t) but far more involved and challenging to get the best out of the car.  That's what makes the experience so intense and involving. 

Knowing there's a bunch of electronics working hard for you underneath really doesn't do it for me - I want responsibility for my actions directly and without interferance from 'sysems'.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 18 November 2010, 21:37
Hot hatches are now running 0-60 times in the 6 seconds so for what it's worth that's still pretty quick.

I agree about most of them being a bit dull in the handling dept, trouble is their all compromised so they appeal to the broadest spectrum of people.

I had a quick spin in a Clio 197 and felt the same about this, too much understeer, not enough grunt. Best fwd car I've driven was an Integra Type R I once had as a company car, never got bored of that car.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 18 November 2010, 21:48
Hot hatches are now running 0-60 times in the 6 seconds so for what it's worth that's still pretty quick

Yes, they absolutely are quick.  Hurdy's G5 laps at around a minute faster than my little shed, but at the end of the day track days are about 'the experience' not times (shocker, I know) and I think you'll have a far greater depth of experience with an older car.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: richw911 on 18 November 2010, 21:51
Hot hatches are now running 0-60 times in the 6 seconds so for what it's worth that's still pretty quick

Yes, they absolutely are quick.  Hurdy's G5 laps at around a minute faster than my little shed, but at the end of the day track days are about 'the experience' not times (shocker, I know) and I think you'll have a far greater depth of experience with an older car.

I have to agree with DH older cars with no electronics or safety features are an awesome experience as they have to be 'driven'   :smiley:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Peej1981 on 18 November 2010, 21:51
I agree that the new hot hatches these days dont have the same driving experiance as the older ones and this is down to all the new safety features which A) weighs the car down more B) are there to protect and save lives C) making the car cost more because of this. I have owned and driven a lot of very refined fast cars and as much as i enjoyed owning them i dont think one of them has got close to my mk2 for fun in the driving experiance, i have had 2 civic type r's and they are great fun to drive and i would say that honda got it spot on with this car but the reason for this was because they went back to basic's in making it, lite, fast and compact giving a great drving experiance.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Khare on 18 November 2010, 21:53
Hot hatches are now running 0-60 times in the 6 seconds so for what it's worth that's still pretty quick

Yes, they absolutely are quick.  Hurdy's G5 laps at around a minute faster than my little shed, but at the end of the day track days are about 'the experience' not times (shocker, I know) and I think you'll have a far greater depth of experience with an older car.

I have to agree with DH older cars with no electronics or safety features are an awesome experience as they have to be 'driven'   :smiley:

+1.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 18 November 2010, 22:02
So, surely that makes a mk3 better than a newer hatch (with traction control, stability management etc)? :tongue:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: richw911 on 18 November 2010, 22:07
So, surely that makes a mk3 better than a newer hatch (with traction control, stability management etc)? :tongue:

No  :grin:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Khare on 18 November 2010, 22:09
Well, yes...actually.

Less weight (Mk3 1060kg, mk4 onwards will be up of 1200 or so)

And the ABF is a 4 cyl yet reasonably pwoerful engine.

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: The Mighty Elvi on 18 November 2010, 22:26
The only thing that the MK3 is "better than" is.....


















































Walking.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Khare on 18 November 2010, 22:37
Walking is actually REALLY good.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: The Mighty Elvi on 18 November 2010, 22:39
Walking is actually REALLY good.

Tell that to the fatties.

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Khare on 18 November 2010, 22:44
Fatty = can' walk

Underaged = can't drive


Simples.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Alec on 18 November 2010, 22:44
What a thread, Golf3 has it's good points but there was clearly a clerical error when the badges were ordered  :lipsrsealed:

2.0 8valves SUCK, never been in an ABF so can't comment.

Used a 94 VR6 for quite a while, apart from having electric windows/sunroof, air con and the nicest engine noise ever, it was just crap to drive fast, even when the suspension is "sorted" they still don't like doing anything other than motorways really, the brakes also fade a bit too quickly.

The Mk2 is just fun, handles like a go kart and still has a comfortable ride, must admit though on cold mornings and hot summers the decent heaters and air con did come in handy.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 18 November 2010, 22:45
Agree with you DH, I definately wouldn't want a car that does everything for you and dulls the amount of effort required and also agree it's not about having the quickest car. To me a good track day is about having some fun, enjoying pushing your car more than you are allowed on public roads and most importantly both coming back in one piece.

Now I have two children I'm just not interested in doing the quickest banzai lap, my off at Goodwood gave me back injuries that still bother me some 15 years later. I'm not a racing driver nor do I need to prove anything so that's why I keep coming back to a MK3 VR6, it's as much about the overall experience and that's a blend of speed, noise and just enjoying the day.

You can have a giggle, Here's my old Beta Coupe before and after, we'd already starting to jack out some of the bent body, swapped the bootlid and pulled out the rear panel but after changing the whole rear suspension, arms etc the car still drove like a banana  :grin:. I'd also cleaned most of the crap from the side but it hit the tyrewall hard enough to stamp the tread patterns of the tyres in the wall  :laugh:

(http://i918.photobucket.com/albums/ad28/jeremybarker/lancia1-1.jpg)

(http://i918.photobucket.com/albums/ad28/jeremybarker/beta2.jpg)
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Diamond Hell on 18 November 2010, 22:54
I've yet to get all involved with the armco.  This came close and could have been a lot worse.

Comment from DannyP, riding shotgun in the passenger seat at the end.  :grin:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yioRlz50aI
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: jeremybarker on 18 November 2010, 23:41
That's one reason why i'd want to put a cage in and some harnesses, if i'd have gone into the tyre wall on the drivers it would have really hurt my neck, i'm not sure of the final impact speed by I fell off at 100mph and made the school boy error of lifting off in a fwd car, as it was I dislocated my spine in three places, snapped my collar bone and twisted my hips and had a bloody sore head from hitting the roof.

I've done quite a few days at Coombe, Avon rise and Quarry is a fantastic combo and so easy to get wrong if you overcook it over Avon rise. These two were taken going into and through the first corner onto the pit straight, damn fun in the wet too  :laugh:

(http://i918.photobucket.com/albums/ad28/jeremybarker/BetaCoombe.jpg)

(http://i918.photobucket.com/albums/ad28/jeremybarker/betacoombe2.jpg)
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tomScotland mk3GTI on 19 November 2010, 02:57
I think all of this depends on what you want from a golf GTI. A mk2 GTI is a great car (esp. a valver) and has its good points and bad points. The mk3 GTI has more refinement, and the difference between the two cars is night and day in terms of comfort and modern feel and was a HUGE leap forward in terms of design, albeit it looks dated now, think back to 1992 tho....

I don't recall many reviews *at the time* saying how disappointing the mk3 was, although if pitched head to head with a late spec mk2 there would certainly have been a clear winner. perhaps if VW had held off and sold the GTI mk3 only in 16v form this debate wouldn't be happening now...

Also, coming into the winter months, and having had several mk2 GTI's I for one am glad to be getting into my car and finding the windows clear within a minute, the heater heats and the blower blows!

So I have a place in my heart for both, unfortunately only have parking for one, so until next summer....
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: clipperjay on 19 November 2010, 10:22
So far the only compliments I see about MK3's are they are comfy, warm, has good heaters in winter, suspension cusshy etc....
To me the MK2 is much more fun, older MK2's seals go and windscreens arent as bonded as they used to be, blowers only work on one setting, suspension is harsh etc... Its over 20 years old? 
Why discuss things that make us feel old I thought its about the driving experiance?

Any people who moved on from MK2 to MK3 in my mind they wanted a modern car might have updated there old MK2's, but didn't know how or the millage scared them due to not looking after them properly?

Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tomScotland mk3GTI on 19 November 2010, 10:26
At the end of the day, does it really matter? Mk2, 3, 6 or 25 it makes no odds, we could all be driving bloody Vauxhalls.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: clipperjay on 19 November 2010, 10:45
At the end of the day, does it really matter? Mk2, 3, 6 or 25 it makes no odds, we could all be driving bloody Vauxhalls.

It doesn't matter Tom, but I'm sticking to the topic and all I see is people justflying the MK3 in comfort and modern driving? Nothing wrong with that just you can see why MK2 purists love the MK2 and not MK3's
My own personal drving experiance with a bog standard MK3 16V Gti was that it felt souless, like you said I could have been driving another manufacturer if I was blind folded? 
I'm sure MK1 purists say the same thing about MK2's  :wink:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Deano2711 on 19 November 2010, 11:23
I felt the same with my Mark 4 GTI. No soul whatsoever. Desperately wanted a Mark 3 again so went out and bought one as they have more life in them. I did look towards a Mark 2 but if you want a nice Mark 2 you need a good bundle of cash really. The Mark 3 is fun to drive and good looking I think and most importantly is affordable. I find that as a family guy the Mark 2 would be more unsuitable as the comfort would be down. I would love a decent Mark 2 as a toy but the Mark 3 offers an everyday compromise to the family guys which is why it was designed and manufactured really.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Misky on 19 November 2010, 11:31
To be a hot hatch you need to be on the edge of death!  :laugh:
As mentioned old school hot hatches are more 'fun' to drive they may actually be slower buy you can rest assure they feel 5X faster due to the driver involvement as DH said!
In all fairness the Mk3 gti does need driver involvement but its just lethargic i guess.
Strip it down and your left with a mk2  :sad:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tomScotland mk3GTI on 19 November 2010, 11:50
you can see why MK2 purists love the MK2 and not MK3's


Absolutely. Then of course there are the MK1 owners who feel the same about everything after that. Its all subjective really, time has moved on and inevitably all production cars have gotten heavier, less involving, safer etc etc through the progress and developments made over the years. The MK3 Golf was a great car if you just landed from the moon and never drove a mk1 or 2! You'd have said the same if you beamed down in 1983 and jumped into an XR3i, never having experienced a mex or rs2000 etc etc.

A lot of people say the mk3 GTI didn't deserve the badge, I disagree. I've never owned a mk1 but I agree the mk3 feels "numb" compared to a mk2, thats progress unfortunately but bearing in mind the developments of the time the mk3 for me is a good compromise. My wife has a mk5, when its parked next to my mk3 it looms over it like a BIG car in comparison, I never thought anything would make the mk3 look small and weedy but there you go, case in point.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: snifferdog on 19 November 2010, 11:51
Ive had plenty of cars with nowhere near as much 'soul' as the mk3 and I find it ridiculous when people say that. Fair enough it isnt the same as the mk2 but compare it to escort, saxo, renault 19, sierra, astra, clio (excl. 16v and williams) etc and it certainly has got a certain appeal to drive.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Deano2711 on 19 November 2010, 12:04
Ive had plenty of cars with nowhere near as much 'soul' as the mk3 and I find it ridiculous when people say that. Fair enough it isnt the same as the mk2 but compare it to escort, saxo, renault 19, sierra, astra, clio (excl. 16v and williams) etc and it certainly has got a certain appeal to drive.

Have to agree really Mate.....I have sampled and owned hundreds of cars in my time and just keep coming back to the Mark 3 Golf. I just love them to bits as it suits my needs and even the missus loves the new one. Nothing else gives me the same buzz. I have never tried a Mark 2 and the only reason I do want to try one is because I keep hearing how they are better than the Mark 3, quicker, lighter and more reliable etc.
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: Khare on 19 November 2010, 13:40
Ive had plenty of cars with nowhere near as much 'soul' as the mk3 and I find it ridiculous when people say that. Fair enough it isnt the same as the mk2 but compare it to escort, saxo, renault 19, sierra, astra, clio (excl. 16v and williams) etc and it certainly has got a certain appeal to drive.

Have to agree really Mate.....I have sampled and owned hundreds of cars in my time and just keep coming back to the Mark 3 Golf. I just love them to bits as it suits my needs and even the missus loves the new one. Nothing else gives me the same buzz. I have never tried a Mark 2 and the only reason I do want to try one is because I keep hearing how they are better than the Mark 3, quicker, lighter and more reliable etc.

Woah steady on cowboy!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: LowlifeDubber on 19 November 2010, 14:04
I've yet to get all involved with the armco.  This came close and could have been a lot worse.

Comment from DannyP, riding shotgun in the passenger seat at the end.  :grin:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yioRlz50aI

Remind me never to ask you to take an engine out my mk3 :grin:

http://www.youtube.com/user/DiamondHell#p/u/3/pZCOfo8KKJk
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: robz on 19 November 2010, 14:24
Cos they are the best / end thread, quickly please :D
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: tigerj360 on 19 November 2010, 14:32
Ive had plenty of cars with nowhere near as much 'soul' as the mk3 and I find it ridiculous when people say that. Fair enough it isnt the same as the mk2 but compare it to escort, saxo, renault 19, sierra, astra, clio (excl. 16v and williams) etc and it certainly has got a certain appeal to drive.

Have to agree really Mate.....I have sampled and owned hundreds of cars in my time and just keep coming back to the Mark 3 Golf. I just love them to bits as it suits my needs and even the missus loves the new one. Nothing else gives me the same buzz. I have never tried a Mark 2 and the only reason I do want to try one is because I keep hearing how they are better than the Mark 3, quicker, lighter and more reliable etc.

Woah steady on cowboy!  :laugh:

haha that is the first time iv heard a mk2 been called more reliable!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: mac7 on 19 November 2010, 18:33
haha that is the first time iv heard a mk2 been called more reliable!  :laugh:

That's because when they were reliable you hadn't been born yet...  :wink:
Title: Re: Why the negativity for MK3 Golfs - enlighten me :)
Post by: watercool on 19 November 2010, 18:49
It's usually people who have never owned a mk3 just jumping on the bandwagon. Maybe the 8v was dissapointing as a GTI
but get over it. I love mine and if it worked properly i'd like it even more  :huh:  :laugh: Love the look of the mk3, especially in my mystic blue  :grin: