HELP! We're buying our first mk2 GTI

[Jokay]

Hi all,
We need your help!
We're about to purchase our first mk2 gti. We don't have a huge budget, just £2000. We don't mind high mileage but we want to be sure the engine is ok as we will be using it as our main car. so we had an idea to buy a cheap oldie with high mileage but good body work etc, which would leave us enough money to get a new refurbed engine (which I'm told costs anything up to £1200). Therefore we'd know it wont cause us any problems.....right?

Is this logical and a good idea or are we crazy? The one we have in mind to buy is on ebay as follows: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/321435564975?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Can anyone who knows more than us give us an idea of whether this car is a good buy or whether we'd be throwing away good money on a car with 270k miles? I'm totally bowled over by the awesome colour so I think my heart is ruling my head on this decision.

Thanks in advance!
Jo & Adam

[barrym381]

that looks ok but rust is the main issue on any mk2 as the engines can be had for cheap and there is plenty about 

[Wayne]

As Barry said engines are cheap so buy on bodywork condition.

Look at a few before buying as well, 270k is a lot of miles I am sure with searching you could find a lower miles car.

[Jokay]

Thanks for your advice guys. We ended up getting the car. Its lovely, had a brand new engine, gearbox, etc, etc from C&R in 2005 and the bodywork is in pretty good condition. A local guy is going to fix up the small rust spots for us for a very good price so soon it'll be spotless. Thanks for all your help and advice!