GolfGTIforum.co.uk
Model specific boards => Golf mk2 => Topic started by: Conker on 03 August 2007, 11:01
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I have posted this on the Mk4 section as well but would really like the Mk2'ers opinion on it... Apologies if this is not strictly allowed.
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Firstly, thanks to all the regular contributors for a great forum.
Secondly, I need a few opinions on something...
I think my Mk4 1.8T GTI is absolutely farking brilliant. However, its now done 85k miles and is starting to need more and more niggles sorting out, and I can feel one or two big fixes (like new suspension) might be less than 20k miles away. I also really like Mk2 16v'ers and I have recently realised that Mk2 GTI vs Mk4 performance (on paper at least) is very similar, and round the twisty bits, the Mk2 might even be better ( ! ! ! ).
So... I was considering selling my Mk4 for between £4k and £5k, buying a nice Mk2 for say around £2k and using the surplus cash to pay off the remaining car loan and also sort out a few bits on the Mk2 e.g. a respray, new wheels etc.
I guess the questions are...
1)Would the likely repair bills on the Mk4 be significantly more than on a (admittedly much older) Mk2 due to it engine complexity etc? Plus I could probably do more myself on the simpler Mk2.
2) Will the Mk2 seem as rough as a bear's behind after my Mk4?
All opinions are more than welcome
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The MKII being an older car obviously is not as refined as a MKIV, so be aware that the ride may be a little harsher, and noisier. You can keep a Golf II on the road very cheaply as they are very basic in design and come apart easily. So DIY maintenance is not too much of a problem. Also, there are plenty being broken and are readily available in scrapyards.
If you want a MKII, then my advice is to get the best condition one you can and keep it up together and clean. They need to be clean to stand out. Otherwise it looks like just another old car.
You WILL be spending more time getting your hands dirty though, so just be aware of that fact. MKII's are 16+ years old now for the youngest ones and need lots of love and fettling!
Good luck! :wink:
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I'm changing up to a mk4 hopefully becasue of the luxury..simple things like elctric windows, A/C and i love the shape of the mk4's.
You'll have to spend atleast £2k for a decent mk2. But constant money wil lbe flowing out your wallet for maintenance...
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You'll have to spend atleast £2k for a decent mk2. But constant money wil lbe flowing out your wallet for maintenance...
I wouldn't agree with that in all honesty.
My 89 8v gti cost me 300 quid in April 06 with 2 months MOT left. It then cost me 70 quid to get it through the MOT, including the cost of the test itself.
IF i had left it alone and standard then the only work i have done is replacing the dizzy, as i thought the hall sender had gone. As it turns out, it was actually the connector that had gone! With the exception of oil, filters, plugs, dizzy caps, and tyres my car would have cost me nothing to run and maintain, but these are things you'd do on any car you own.
It had it's MOT last week and went straight through and didn't even pick up any advisories!
Admittidly, it's got a couple of scratches, a couple of dents and a bit of small bubbling coming through, but it was 300 quid!! I'd say get out there and see what you can get for your money, that way you can build up an idea of what to expect for your money and adjust the budget accordingly. If it was me, i'd be looking for a mint body and not let slightly dodgy mechanics put me off a nice car. Just depends how dirty you want to get your hands!
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Good posts dudes, keep em coming.
As an added extra... The last and possibly insurmountable part of the dilemma would be getting my missus to not worry about reduced safety / NCAP ratings and all that b---ocks :wink:
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Late ones have side impact bars in the doors. Erm, i think that's about it! :undecided:
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According to http://www.letstorquebhp.com/fwd.asp the MK2 16v is faster than the MK4 1.8T
I would take these readings with a healthy pinch of salt.
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its got a greater power to weight ratio, being lighter it will handle better also. only way a mk4 is faster is in gear acceleration due to the torque from the turbo
mk2 will give you bigger smiles per miles driving than a mk4
if your wife is worried about safety then i wouldnt show her this...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyzCswJ_tkk
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I had a Mk3 16v (modern ish with creature comforts) but then changed to a Mk2 16v because it was just a more iconic car and so much more fun to drive.
Yes you will lose some modern features like Air Con (unless you find the one or two Mk2s that have it that are in this country), but if you buy a later H or J plate car you will have options like electric windows, pas, electric mirrors, electric sunroof, very comfy sports seats (perhaps even heated Recaros) and central locking. So A/C is pretty much the only thing you won't get.
I would have a Mk2 now, but my wife doesn't like the "dated" look, don't know what she means :grin:
The Mk2 is a classic, the Mk4 isn't and probably never will be.
Keeping the missus happy is important, so just find a very clean Mk2 with at least PAS, CL and Electric windows, then take her out for a drive in the country, and show her how much fun it is (perhaps even let her drive it).
Don't talk about the safety thing, you'll have seatbelts, and because it's lighter, it should be easier to stop in an emergency.
Good luck with that.
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The mk4 is newer and although I have never owned a mk2, I would prefer to be more up to date then take a step back (IMO of course) not doubting that the mk2 is a brill car though
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What leads you believe that the your 1.8T is on its way out? Niggling problems are a fact on ALL cars, should you get a Mk2 you will probably have more. Personaly I would NEVER go to a Mk2 from an Mk4 unless money became an issue. The 1.8T is newer, smoother, more comfortable, fast enough (should you want more, nothing a remap cant fix).
All this about the Mk4 not being "iconic" is rubbish, its to new a car yet. Its still got many years untill it can even be thought about being classes in taht bracket. Correct me im wrong but 1.8T, the first Golf GTi to have a turbo in it out the factory?
These kind of choices are all down to personal opinion and what you want, I know what I would rather have and thats all I can offer.
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Alot of viable things there and lots of people have different ideas. People say that French cars are some of the best in the world. But personally, I wouldn't touch them. Its all down to personal taste.
Creature comforts versus seat of the pants driving is a tough decision for some. But I have driven very expensive Mercedes and BMW's, and also built a very high powered Cobra. I know what I prefer and am now just starting to build another one. :smiley:
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I don't think its on its way out, nowhere near, but I was just wondering if the bits that might wear out over the coming few years might be far more expensive than the maintenance costs of a Mk2, and if the Mk2 is as much fun then why not?
The profit from the swap would also be a lot of beer money! :laugh:
Fixing all the little niggles on my Mk4 1.8t, and then remapping it, is a definite possibility though.
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Just out of interest, whats the niggly things on ur Mk4?
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I had a Mk3 16v (modern ish with creature comforts) but then changed to a Mk2 16v because it was just a more iconic car and so much more fun to drive.
Yes you will lose some modern features like Air Con (unless you find the one or two Mk2s that have it that are in this country), but if you buy a later H or J plate car you will have options like electric windows, pas, electric mirrors, electric sunroof, very comfy sports seats (perhaps even heated Recaros) and central locking. So A/C is pretty much the only thing you won't get.
I would have a Mk2 now, but my wife doesn't like the "dated" look, don't know what she means :grin:
The Mk2 is a classic, the Mk4 isn't and probably never will be.
Keeping the missus happy is important, so just find a very clean Mk2 with at least PAS, CL and Electric windows, then take her out for a drive in the country, and show her how much fun it is (perhaps even let her drive it).
Don't talk about the safety thing, you'll have seatbelts, and because it's lighter, it should be easier to stop in an emergency.
Good luck with that.
Dubfan,
Can't believe how similar mine and your stories are, i recently sold my mk3 16v and bought a mint J plate mk2 16v.
My misses said "why are you buying an older car??"
The only thing i've lost by moving down is air con and a good standard stereo setup (which i'm looking to sort out now!)
Mine's got cd player, sunroof, power steering, central locking and electric windows.
I'm chuffed to bits with it and it's put lots of smiles on my face in the 3 months/3000 miles i've done.
Conker my advice would be to buy the best example you can with lots of history and i don't think you'll go far wrong, you may need to pay £2-2.5k though for a minter.
Stomper
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i think a mk2 would get my choice every day of the week...except possibly thursdays...
i had to decide between a mk2 and a mk4, and i just couldnt justify spending that much money on a car that was more expensive to run, and not as entertaining to drive. with all the comforts of a mk4, you lose the main enjoyability of a mk2, the feel of the road, the back to basics driving, and the wet your pants fear! so much fun, and soo soo cheap! mk4's are too smoothe, too quiet.. and everyone has them!
mk2 all the way... oh yeah, get an 8v :rolleyes:
rob
(nice colour car you got there stomper!)
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Get yourself a nice mk2 and you'll get loads more admiring glances than a mk4.
Alpine white all the way.................. :grin:
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Go test drive a few and see what you think. Best advice really.
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just gone from a mk3 8v to mk2 16v (via a polo 16v) and have to say the refinement thing isn't as bad as i'd thought. you can tell theres not so much soundproofing etc but thats fixable if it bothers you.
as for toys, my mk2 has PAS,RCL,electric sunroof , electric windows and Air Con. the only thing missing is ABS.
go on , do it.
my missus says it's boxy......i say ..meh :tongue:
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I can testify that the ladies prefer the Mk4 GTi to the "old" Mk2 GTi. That's got to count towards something ? ?
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AlanD asked what my niggles on Mk4 are:
1) Front suspension is sloppy and squeaks/rattles massively at slow speeds so im guessing its bushes, but poss bushes and dampers.
2) Brakes are squidgy and distribution doesn't feel right - It used to feel as solid as a rock under heavy breaking. I've had brand new discs fitted (by the main stealer as well) so it should be tip-top.
3) Drivers Recaro has developed an annoying creak in the side support.
4) Rear washer is fooked (brass washer pipe inside the unit) and is setting off my alarm... Simple fix I can do but its still a pricey-ish part.
5) Air conditioning is temperamental... Lovely and cold for 20 min then goes warm... Again prob just needs refilling with coolant, but its more £Â£Ã‚£.
6) The daft tw-ts at work who can't reverse into a space properly have put two scratches on the passenger side. :angry:
I actually feel a bit better after getting that lot off my chest. Plus its literally just come back from the garage with a fully passed MOT! :grin:
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Having driven 8v, 16v, 1.8T, GT TDI 150 I would say (echoing the posts of others!)
mk2: more fun on A and B roads, people will admire it, cheap to own and service if you are mechanically competent, you feel like you are driving it as apposed to riding in it
mk4: much better for the motorway or if you do a lot of miles, more refined and quiet, air con! You arrive much fresher after a long journey :grin:
Put it this way, I would not swap my mk2 for a mk4, but thats me being sentimental :rolleyes:. I would keep the mk2 and get a something more modern if I had lots of miles to do. The point about reliability is fair enough, but in my experience the mk2 is very reliable if it’s well looked after. I have only had one break down (water leak onto coil) in 9 years and 130K (touching wood now) :smiley:
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(touching wood now) :smiley:
i can see you like mk2's but thats a bit much. :laugh:
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^ pmsl :laugh:
btw, is your sig Curbar Edge?
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froggatt , but good spot anyway. i assume you're a climber or walker?
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:cool:
Not a climber or walker. Curbar etc used to be part of my daily commute thrash :grin: (Worksop to Chapel-en-le-Frith). I used to really enjoy going on the back roads :smiley:
Sorry about hte hijack Conker :embarassed:
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AlanD asked what my niggles on Mk4 are:
1) Front suspension is sloppy and squeaks/rattles massively at slow speeds so im guessing its bushes, but poss bushes and dampers.
2) Brakes are squidgy and distribution doesn't feel right - It used to feel as solid as a rock under heavy breaking. I've had brand new discs fitted (by the main stealer as well) so it should be tip-top.
3) Drivers Recaro has developed an annoying creak in the side support.
4) Rear washer is fooked (brass washer pipe inside the unit) and is setting off my alarm... Simple fix I can do but its still a pricey-ish part.
5) Air conditioning is temperamental... Lovely and cold for 20 min then goes warm... Again prob just needs refilling with coolant, but its more £Â£Ã‚£.
6) The daft tw-ts at work who can't reverse into a space properly have put two scratches on the passenger side. :angry:
I actually feel a bit better after getting that lot off my chest. Plus its literally just come back from the garage with a fully passed MOT! :grin:
You will get exactly the same with a MKII, but not pay a fortune to put it right. As I said before, these cars need to be kept on top off, so you will get your hands dirty more often.
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hers my 2 pence worth...
I have '90 valver, my dad has a mk4 anni (180bhp).
I would prefer to take his for a motorway trek but would take mine as a daily driver every day of the week! even tough he has more power/torque mine would detroy it on the twisties!!!
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I'd probably get out and drive a couple of mk2's first if i were you, can be difficult to decide even from a test drive though.
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the mk2 are a great classic car but would you get a real good 1 for the money?
me personly would never get rid of a mk4 1.8t for anything
id spend the extra to get it all working 100%
but only you can make your mind up you wouldnt ask advice here of what women should i marry?
i know marrige isnt as important as this but couldnt think of anything as important
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for the cost of a service on a mk4 you could probably get an engine and box for a mk2 in really good order, any major faults on a mk4 ie. turbo or ecu would sting you a good couple of weeks wages! A mk2 may well need a bit all the time, but the smile when you get in it is amazing, they are getting fewer and there are so many mk4' s more and more each day, people are geting them cause they are such a safe car for the money thinking that in 5-10 years everone will look at the mk4 like the mk2!!! :tongue: no chance!!! :laugh:
Get it while you can, the way the car market is going cars will not be able to live for more than ten years soon with all this recycling crap thats going on. :cry:
Gonna keep mine forever!!!!! :cool:
Mk2 's forever!!!!!! :smug:
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According to http://www.letstorquebhp.com/fwd.asp the MK2 16v is faster than the MK4 1.8T
I would take these readings with a healthy pinch of salt.
I have a timing slip sitting on my desk from a race on santa pod to proove that mk2 16vs are quicker than mk4 1.8T's :smug:
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Could't you buy a cheap m2 as a weekend car?
If i got a mk4 i think i'd keep the mk2 for a bit.
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According to http://www.letstorquebhp.com/fwd.asp the MK2 16v is faster than the MK4 1.8T
I would take these readings with a healthy pinch of salt.
I have a timing slip sitting on my desk from a race on santa pod to proove that mk2 16vs are quicker than mk4 1.8T's :smug:
I was hoping you would see that :smiley:. Your 1/4 sprint time was exactly as published in that link wasn't it?
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Yep, pretty much bang on. I did a few 15.9's at North Weald the other day, but averaging about 16.1.
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A newbie to the forum's point of view...
My main drive at the moment is a Mk5 GTI turbo which is a great car, but anything goes wrong with it and it's straight to the stealer's for "diagnosis". It's still under warranty of course so not a major issue. Went in last week for a strange little tapping noise (sounded a little like a faulty relay would sound - like the indicators was left on) anyway VW had a look and the list of kit they are replaicing is amazing...Replacing the heater motor, and the air con computer ("just in case"), electric window ecu?, rear wiper something or other, the list goes on.... Mk4's are perhaps a little less complex but still I used to have one and was experiencing a bit of a judder at a certain speed and the diagnosed it as a speed sensor - costing £150 fitted!!
Point is modern cars are designed such that diy maintenance / cheap running is impossible (how else do they pay for the plush dealerships?) so it depends what you want to get out of your driving experience. If you are after a no hassle (but more expensive) ownership keep the Mk4 and get it fixed. if you are after a more "hands on" experience which in my opinion is more rewarding then go to a Mk2. It makes you think more and understand what is going on and how to get the best out of your car.
I am fortunate enough to be able to have the best of both worlds, as well as my daily drive Mk5 I have just bought 2 x Mk2 16v's. One which I bought as a restoration project and one I have just bought which is near mint. they are just toys along with my Landy for the weekend. But it let's me get my hand back in which is something I have missed for a while since time became more of a comodity. (2 kids).
Good luck with your decision, if all else fails get the wife a modern polo or something! I end up having to buy her something evrytime I buy a new car so she doesn't go off on one.....
Steve
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Well said that man. Everything said is true. I own a MKII 8V and have considered moving to a MKIII 16V, but only for the power. But I think if I stick to Golfs (which is seriously in question considering my move back into the Cobra fraternity) I would go for a MKII 16V. But only for the fact that I've owned two 8V's and would like a change.
As said, I own a 8V and when I bought it, it was a ropey old peice of wotnot. But every visit to the scrapyard reaped rewards and I have enjoyed every minute of bringing it up to the standard it is now. All, I have to say with second hand stuff. Every improvement made elevates the driving experience and rewards you with a feeling of satisaction and accomplishment. Thats why I have a MKII. :smiley:
MKIII's, IV's and V's in my opinion can stay in the classifieds. BUT, that is my opinion. Everyone is different, and I wouldn't force anyone to change their minds. (Doesn't stop me from looking at a well cared for MKIII though!) :laugh:
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can anyone tellme (as most have driven mk2 mk3 and mk4's, what the clutch like in going from the mk3 16v to mk2 16v is it a lot stiffer as it wa svery light in the 16v mk3, but i heard its stiffer in mk2's from reviews or the measuremeats in pressure anyway, is it much worse :huh:, I ask as i get weak legs sometimes and it matters to me, also i had a vr6 early one which was very heavy clutch wise may of been engine or maybe early ones are stiffer does anyone know, iwant a mk2 16v but am worried its stiff, if i go far to test drive one and it stiff its a waste of time and if go for one of ebay cant anyway usully, just thought id ask
thanks also very interesting replies
i loved the character of my mk2 driver had it ages, forgot how it drove now but have fond memories
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my valver clutch is light.
it is no heavier than my nissan primera (2002) anyway.
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yeah, a had a mk3 8v and i can't say i've noticed a difference to my mk2 16v
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Thanks for all the posts.
Saw two Mk2 16v'ers on the road over the weekend and one looked rubbish and the other looked awesome. I think its definitely a case of having to keep the Mk2 clean and tidy to stop it looking "old".
I think I should go and test drive a few Mk2's and see if how much I like them, and see what i can get for my money. Then I can decide.
Cheers,
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Thanks for all the posts.
Saw two Mk2 16v'ers on the road over the weekend and one looked rubbish and the other looked awesome. I think its definitely a case of having to keep the Mk2 clean and tidy to stop it looking "old".
I think I should go and test drive a few Mk2's and see if how much I like them, and see what i can get for my money. Then I can decide.
Cheers,
You've hit the nail on the head there mate, there's a big difference between a clean and tidy mk2 and a shabby one.
Let us know how you get on with your test-drives and your final decision, see if you can be lured by the old classic away from the mk4!
Oli
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I have just bought a 16 valver this weekend, and all I can say is ive had a smile on my face ever since.
I did have a mk4 before but never, ever, did i get the sort of enjoyment that im getting right now outa the mk2.
i only spent 1250 on it, although i believe i got it alot cheaper than what it should of been as it is mint other than a slight oil leak and in need of a good service.
In my opinion, having had both cars id go for a mk2. Although i know im going to be getting my hands dirtier than i would with the mk4, i know its worth it.
O and one last thing.........the noise when booting it is so addictive its untrue !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D :D
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Im getting the bug big style... Gonna test one out ASAP. I just think the Mk2 looks better. This picture is awesome:
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e75/ktuludays/threeabove3.jpg)
[Sorry... Can't remember the member whose cars these are]
Red, black or grey... Red, black or grey... Hmmm.
I think my Mk4's days are numbered (although obviously never having been in a Mk2 GTI I might completely change my mind post test drive!!)
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Im getting the bug big style... Gonna test one out ASAP. I just think the Mk2 looks better. This picture is awesome:
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e75/ktuludays/threeabove3.jpg)
[Sorry... Can't remember the member whose cars these are]
Red, black or grey... Red, black or grey... Hmmm.
I think my Mk4's days are numbered (although obviously never having been in a Mk2 GTI I might completely change my mind post test drive!!)
Freaky,
That's the exact same photo that tempted me to go and look at a mk2!
I saw a grey one like the one in the pic at our local supermarket the other day, looked super-cool.
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the red mk2 are very hard to keep red, you really need to be waxing it every other week to stop it turning pink. so if you have little patience id go for black or atlas grey. the atlas grey would be my preferred choice of the 3
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I've just sold my mk4 gti t and got a mk2 8v and can honestly say that like others if your gonna use it for long journeys and want comfort that all the family etc can enjoy then stick to the mk4! they are great fun to drive and always put a smile on my face!
but the mk2 is something else if you want a car to drive! i love the thing when you throw it into corners or just want a quick blast around town or b roads! its all about being light and nippy something that i can honestly say the mk4 isnt! dont get me wrong they are quick but i always wanted it to go faster!
id say if you need to sell the mk4 get a mk2 and you'll enjoy it! i sold mine due to not needing it for a dailt anymore and buying a house but i can honestly say the mk2 is loads of fun! i just cant help myself buying little bits and bobs for it because they are so cheap!
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I have a MKII 8V but I have changed the 5th gear for that from a 4E gearbox, found in I think 1.3 or 1.6 engined cars. This gives me a more relaxed cruising speed in 5th, but maintaining GTI performance with the first 4 gears.
In 5th, at 75 MPH (130 KMH, I live in Spain!) the engine turns at about 3200RPM give or take...as opposed to 4000RPM I had before.
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hello
got a mk2 16v but got a mk3 for comfort and all that rubbish.only had it 2 weeks now thinking of going back to the mk2! can`t beat the grin they give me! mk2 all the way!
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You bought a mk2 yet? :laugh:
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the comments about having to keep the 2's clean to stand out is spot on, when dirty they have the habit of just looking like a bit of a heap.
i've had a real mix of cars old and new and i'm certain that round country roads the sheer chuckabillity of the mk2 will keep it streaks ahead of the mk4. :wink:
hell mine can even do roundabouts in a drifter stylee!! :grin:
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Im already looking MonzaBlue.... :grin:
I've just emailed someone on the forum "For Sale" section - Depends how nearby they live, but will hopefully get a test drive.
Seen lots of nice 8v'ers but not so many 16's.
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Im already looking
:cool:
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Im already looking MonzaBlue.... :grin:
I've just emailed someone on the forum "For Sale" section - Depends how nearby they live, but will hopefully get a test drive.
Seen lots of nice 8v'ers but not so many 16's.
:cool: Hold out for a valver if your gonna buy you may as well buy the best :) or buy Blue's G60 ed1 :)
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I laso love monza blue th ebest colour in my opinion, really stands out my mk2 driver was this colour too
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If you mean this one...
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y82/c0151198/LeeBottrill6035045715011.jpg)
...Then I've already offered the owner my spare kidney for it (sadly I don't have the cash, only auxillary organs)
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MMMMMMMMMMM very nice :shocked:
Go for it, you won't regret it!
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Can't afford the G60... Worth more than my Mk4!
This one looks alright:
(http://i16.ebayimg.com/03/i/000/ag/c9/3dd2_12.JPG)
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/1992-VOLKSWAGEN-GOLF-GTI-16V-METALLIC-GREY_W0QQitemZ130141703631QQihZ003QQcategoryZ9873QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Any of you lot wiv da wisdom, got any opinions? :tongue:
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Yeah looks tidy enough, bit of rust on the tailgate that he's forgotten to mention in the listing.
With a good clean/polish and blacking the trim it would come up nice i reckon. Nice colour too.
Worth going to have a look, just hope he hasn't put a stupid reserve on it!
Send him an e-mail asking him some questions about service history and recent work done, cambelt, brakes etc.
Suspension looks a bit tired, higher at the front.
Got quite a good spec (like most late valvers) sunroof, c/l, new exhaust, newish tyres.
Are you fussed about 3/5 door?
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This looks the business:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/1990-VOLKSWAGEN-GOLF-GTI-16V-BLUE_W0QQitemZ140146041380QQihZ004QQcategoryZ9873QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Great spec....
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Prob going to be too much £Â£Ã‚£ that one Stomper... Plus its miles away (I live in Wiltshire).
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Wife just saw what I was looking at and went mental. :angry:
"... Why do you want an old car when you've got a new car?!?" Yeah yeah yeah.
I might have lost the battle, but I'll win the war... :wink:
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If it is as good in the flesh as it looks on the screen, then that is probably the calibre of car you want. When going for an older car, it is very easy to get dis-heartened if you end up with a load of crap. Plus the Memsaab will give you no end of grief if its a money pit. ´I told you so´ will become a familiar catch phrase.
Worth a bid though I would have thought. May not be as much as you think.
If you are serious about getting a very nice one, be prepared to travel.
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Haha, busted, i like it! :grin:
That grey one is in basingstoke so probably worth a trip to have a look,
If the wife lets you.............!
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The grey one has been sold :cry:
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D'oh!
I'd go for a 3 door if possible anyway unless you need the extra two doors.
Keep looking mate, i'm sure there'll be some more out there.
Have you pretty much decided to go for one now then or still waiting to test drive a couple first?
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Pretty much decided - I THINK it makes financial sense. Im paying £140 a month for my Mk4's loan which i can get rid of, and £140/mnth can pay for a lot of repairs if needed, and I'll still be better off.
The other side of the coin is that within a few years Im hoping to start a Westfield project (Mazda MX5 donor version) so I'll need all the tools and kit to do that, so I should be well placed to maintain a Mk2 as well - Everyone's a winner!!
...But it all depends on the test drive!!! :tongue:
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Whereabouts in Wiltshire are you?
I'm in Reading so you're welcome to come and have a look at mine and i'll take you out for a spin?
Mine's an original car well looked after.
I've been getting some prices for a 10k service with rear discs and pads and got a price of £220 all in from a local VW specialist, pretty good i thought. Pondered doing it myself but heard nightmares of rear calipers seizing etc so thought i'd let them have the headache for the sake of £45 labour.
Renewed insurance today aswell, £400 comprehensive.
Let me know if you want to come and have a look.
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Love this thread i was unsure Mk2 or 3 when i bought mine and wishing id got a 2 now
Look at this must fly with a VR6 lump!!!
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/211501.htm
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Cheers Stomper - Very generous. I work in Reading several times a month, so thats defo possible. Im off on hols for two weeks in a couple of days so it would be after that though.
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Dont get me wrong, I love my Mk4 and never want to get rid of it, but a MK2 with a VR6 in it gives me goose bumps.
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Cheers Stomper - Very generous. I work in Reading several times a month, so thats defo possible. Im off on hols for two weeks in a couple of days so it would be after that though.
No worries, give me a shout when you get back if you want to take a look.
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Went on a test drive yesterday morning in my first Mk2 16v!
It was very standard and mint. I was a bit too excited to tell how fast it was though. Its only problem was that its gears were very crunchy, and the clutch felt VERY heavy, but maybe these are just me having gone all soft with my Mk4. :shocked:
I'll go on another test drive ASAP to get a benchmark.
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Iv got a feeling (not 100%) that the Mk2 is known for its "crunchy" gears, anyone?
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1st to second gear crunch isnt unheard of, but they genrally are over 16 years old so a good oil changed, maybe to stop crunch and a replacement set of gear bushes and rods will usually cure the problemo, not too difficuly either jobs, perhaps a days work if you take your time.
having said that mine is 16 eyars old, no gear crunch at all but the gear stick is sloppy as hell... but i have a bush kit awaiting fittment so soon it will be like new!
rob
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So you've had a taster, what were your thoughts afterwards?
First time i drove one the first thing that grabbed me compared to my mk3 16v was the willingness to rev and the noise, pretty addictive. They are fast cars once you get into the upper rev range, probably on a par with a 1.8T golf 150bhp i would say, the speed is a bit more effortless in the mk4 though cos of turbo obviously.#
Gears don't crunch at all on mine, really tight and the clutch isn't that heavy.
I think you can get a gear linkage kit which tightens up any slack and gives a nice precise change pretty cheap, clutch was probably on its way out or just needs a new cable.
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Just seen a golf for sale with a 'ringer badge on the back... I.e. Nurburgring Club.
He prob ought to have taken that off before trying to sell it, as I don't think the "...never been raced or rallied" statement will cut the mustard now! :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Hehe.
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Just seen a golf for sale with a 'ringer badge on the back... I.e. Nurburgring Club.
He prob ought to have taken that off before trying to sell it, as I don't think the "...never been raced or rallied" statement will cut the mustard now! :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Hehe.
hammered to fook doesn't have the same sales appeal does it? :laugh:
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All,
Tested a Mk2 I was pleased with yesterday. If I can get a few hundred quid off the asking price to sort out a few niggles I'll be happy. It pulled well, the gear change was slick and the clutch was fine.
Bearing in mind it pulled well... My only issue with it was that on starting it up the exhaust smoked more than the other cars I've tested. It was dirty blue smoke that smelled like petrol/fuel. Searching the forums I see lots of posts about "stem seals". Is this what its likely to be, and if so, is this a big problem.
Oh, and the only other problem was to do with oil - There was some oil seepage from the filler cap & some on the sump. Also, (this might be completely spasticated of me by the way :undecided:) after the test drive, opening the filler cap, there was a little vapour/steam in the engine - Is this normal??
Cheers for any help dudes,
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One more thing... There was a pipe disconnected in the engine bay that apparently went from the engine to the air box (hot air feed?), but had been disconnected out of "choice"???
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The plot thickens... HPI revealed it was once a "mild" write-off:
"Category C - Repairable salvage. Usually applies to vehicles with significant damage and where the cost of repairs exceeds the book value. It can be sold for repair but must have VIC(Vehicle Identity Check) inspection before returning to the road. V5 documents are returned to DVLA and recorded as category C vehicles. You can re-apply for registration on the original identity once the VIC inspection has been done. VIC inspection and re-registration removes the Category C classification, but evidence it was at one time Category C remains on the vehicle's record at the DVLA and so will appear on a vehicle data check."
Looked as straight as an arrow to me....
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Walk away unless completely happy that repairs have been done properly. It may not have suffered much body damage. The right off may have been because of a bent suspension leg or something like that. Bear in mind that if total cost of repairs equals two thirds of the vehicles estimated value, they will right it off. So for the sake of a banged door...
Find out more or walk away. There are plenty more.
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Yeah i wouldn't bother mate unless you can find out more about it.
There's not plenty around but you'd be better off waiting for the right one, got to think of re-sale aswell.
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F-ck, F-ck, F-ck, F-ck ! ! ! ! ! !
:angry: :angry: :angry: :angry: :angry:
All day looking at Mk2's, spent half a tank of fuel and 1xHPI check and all I've got to show for it is a headache.
Ho-hum.
What I need is a DeLorean, floor it to 88mph, go back to 1991, steal a 16v from a veedub showroom, rip out the flux capacitor from the DeLorean, ram it into the GTI (prob need a plutonium-to-12V connector from Halfords), then warp back to 2007. Job done. Back in time for tea and medals. :laugh:
PS... i can't find a sticky about flux capacitors??
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Fook me you're not hanging around are you!
Sounds like you've made your mind up :grin:
When are you going away?
Gave mine a good clean up today then went for a drive this afternoon with the misses, got plenty of admiring glances!
Got to love a clean and shiny mk2 :cool:
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I'm technically "away" right now. We've decided to do UK stuff, (and some decorating etc. :sick: )
Yeah, i've more or less made my mind up. The last car I tested was much faster than the other Mk2's (strange how they can be so variable) and would have been more than a match for my Mk4, which has confirmed that Im doing the right thing. Shame about the HPI thingy.
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I took mine up to Stealth for a rolling road session a couple of weeks ago, had lost a bit of power and torque over time.
Now it's up on both, more urgency and better fuel economy so every car's different.
Sounds like you're on a car hunting holiday, sounds good!
Let us know how you get on.
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Had a rolling road day yesterday and I've only lost 2 bhp from factory spec and it's not been rr tuned yet :) Not bad to say t'old girls pushing 20 this year and going towards 180k :)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v495/sharemaster/scottpowerrunsmall.jpg)
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not all cat c are that bad depends on what it was sometimes you can find out what it was forgot how though, one golf i saw once that was a cat c or d i forgot only had its wheels stolen and put on bricks
some cat c is only body panels or can be other mechanoicle sparts so it can be arisk usully there good value at right price if straight and true lots get repaired well, would be worth a shot at reduced price
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Knowing my luck it was probably just mildly rear ended and theres nothing wrong with it, but I've been put off the car now. If I was the seller I would have an RAC inspection done to show potential buyers, as the main problem with it is that there is no info on the damage repair.
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The hunt continues......!
Presume you've looked on the other forums and car traders?
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Mainly pistonheads and ebay. Exchange and Mart is okay. Autotrader is a bit she-ite. Not many others used.
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try the other forums
Edition 38 has a fair few cars on there
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Yeah try Edition38 & clubgti, both good forums.
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Also
Dubforce.net some nice cars on there for sale!
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Hi,
In case you are interested I am thinking of selling my mk2 16valve. Its a 1987 2 door with full leather interior (including door cards etc) power steering and central locking (all part of the original spec). No rot, a few very small rust spots, you have to look hard to find them. 98k on the clock. Its had new rear discs, pads and wheel bearings in 05 and both front shocks and top mounts last year. Cambelt was changed last year also. Its very good rather than mint but it is unmolested and mostly original (but it has had some paintwork done in the past, not by me but or the guy I brought it from). I live in Bedford give me a call in the evening if you are interested 01234365455.
Im looking for £1200
cheers
Keith
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Thanks Keith, I'll defo bear you in mind if Im coming near Bedford. Living in Wiltshire, its a bit too far for now, but you never know!
Cheers.
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I've not actually driven a km4 golf but I've just sold my Vectra gsi to buy a mk2 golf 1.8 16v. The experience you get from driving a mk2 is second to none as far as I'm concerned. The mk2 is a drivers car, it involves you as a driver whereas my vectra felt like I was only there for the ride. :smiley:
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The saga continues...
I need some opinions on this - Be as blunt as you like. Im very much considering this one - Its above my budget but hopefully the guy will come down a bit:
http://www.pistonheads.co.uk/sales/240011.htm
Only two issues... Its got idle hunting (if you blip the throttle RPM rises then drops to almost a stall, then hunts), and its got one significant rust patch that Im not sure how big a deal it is (I can't see behind that panel). Photo from ad:
(http://www.pistonheads.co.uk/sales/images/240011-2.jpg)
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looks dodgy, ive had to replace all my rear panel due to rust in that area, and you couldnt even see it when the plastic arch was on, so behind the arch could be a real mess. if you where to have a look at the car, have a feel for the second skin under the arch if that feels sturdy/no rusty flakes it could be ok.
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id say behind that rear arch will be a mess, also the leather interior is a retrim
its also had a back window replaced at some time with a non-gti item. doesnt even look tinted
worth about 12-1500 absolute tops, and that assuming its mechanically sound & there is no more rust hiding
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Thanks for the advice guys. Keep it coming dubbers!
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I drove a 560 mile round trip to Sunderland to buy my 89 mk2 16v for a miserly £500 from ebay. 1 years MOT and 106k on the clock. Its the best £500 I have ever spent. That gets confirmed at Knockhill ever now and then when the car gets the real treatment. Its only when you get the car near its linits do you fully appreciate how good the mk2 is.
I hope you get a good mk2 soon. Although I would of advised buying before summer not winter if your new to getting your hands dirty or rolling about under the car.
Make sure you buy a 16v though. its worth the extra cash and hunting required to get one is worth it for the extra performance and the addictive noise it makes.
Keep looking and good luck
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Hi again,
I know you think Bedford is a bit far to come but if you were considering that car in swindon then you really ought to have a look at mine. Bodily it is much better and its a lot cheaper.
Read the info and have a look at the pics (ive posted some new ones on photobucket) Give me a call on 0123436555.
cheers, Keith
For sale is my mk2 16v GTI in grey.
Ive posted some pictures on photobucket.
http://s238.photobucket.com/albums/ff291/ksetch/
It’s a 1987 with 94800 on the clock which appears to be genuine.
The car has power steering, central locking, electric windows and a full black leather interior. All original factory fitment.
Its also fitted with a thatcham approved immobilizer.
I have got the correct front grill with the spot lights and I have also got the original rear bumper. The original bumper fits properly unlike the one with the towball. Ive only used the car to tow a small trailer (usually with a motorcycle on it)
The bodywork is really excellent, no rot and no sign of any welding or repair work at all.
There has been some paint respray work, but not by me or the guy I brought the car from, so its been done at least 4 years.
There are blemishes in the respray near both door handles (see pics)
and a few small rust spots, the worst one by far being behind the passenger window wiper (see pic).
There are no big rust patches and no sign of any rust behind the wheel arch trims.
There is quite a big scratch on the passenger door (see pic) but its not through to the metal and the door is not dented.
The interior is generally very good but the drivers seat is a little tired on the edge of the bolster, but is not split. There is a small cut in the cushion but its been like that since I had the car.
The passenger and rear seats are in excellent condition.
Carpets and roof lining are fine and even the parcel shelf isn’t brocken.
The multitude of speakers in the doors and rear cards are part of the original fitment for it first owner. They are not very good. There is a hole in the center column where a graphic equalizer was fitted (it didn’t work so I removed it)
Ive had the car for 3 years, and Ive always kept it in the garage.
During that time its had,
Cambelt replaced
New rear wheel bearings discs and pads (both sides).
New rear caliper one side.
New front strut inserts (chocks) and strut top bearings (both sides).
New front tyres.
Gearbox, clutch and exhaust all seem fine.
Engine starts first time and pulls well.
Mot runs out 26th Oct but it should pass another OK. (its only done 2000 miles since the last one, which is part of the reason that I am selling it)
Im looking for £1200