MK1 1.6 needs more guts!

[Taylor]

Hi all!

I have bought a 1988 MK 1 1.6 cab in mint condition. The only thing I would like to do is give it more guts.
I've been told I can get injection put in (is this right?) or can I do anything else to make him speed up?

Also, for future reference, can you still get roofs made to fit these cars?

I'm grateful for any info here!

Thanks

[SoundillusioN]

Hate to sound like a gimp but if your car is a 1988 its a mk2.  There r a few things you can do to give it a bit more guts but the biggest mistake people make is buy add on after add on for their car where in the long run it would have been easier and cheaper to just change the whole engine.  It is possible to add injection to a standard 1600 but not worth it and not easy.  If you have to stay 1600 try getting a better carb (or two) to go along side all the othere stuff like better exhaust system, intake etc.  It starts getting costly tho.  how much u willing to spend?

[Taylor]

Thanks for your reply!

You've confused me!  It's definitely a Mk1! Registered in Dec '88.

Money's not a huge deal, but i just really want to know if it's worth it?
I'd rather spend the money on fixing the sticky gearbox and the squeaky RHS front wheel!

How much would u say a garage would charge to change the engine as I can't do it myself?

Two more questions...can the steering wheel be straightened easily instead of having to go to a garage? And what does it mean when a car is dry sprayed? My friend said this like it was bad!!!

Thanks again, appreciate your help!

[SoundillusioN]

is ur car a cabriolet? both my cars r mk1's.  http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/gallery/index.php?cat=18227 mk1's were no more after 1983 apart from the cabs, they lasted well into 93.  Engines r relitivly cheap to buy but changin can be costly.  If u up the engine size but stay on carb then it doesnt cost anywhere near as much as converting to injection. I cudn't give a price as it depends where you go.  I would pay my mate 100 knicker to do a stright swap.  Injection needs alot more than just the engine.  You'll need to change the whole fuel system, and you'll need extra electrics too.  Its cheaper buying an original GTI.  Don't know much about paint i'm afraid.  

[Taylor]

Hi!

Yes it's a cab. Black on dark green, with 15" BBS's, front and rear spoiler kit, dark lights and it's even got PAS which i never ever expected. It's been someone's baby and been resprayed original colour etc.

I think I might upsize the engine as you suggested. Seems easiest.

Thanks for your suggestions!

[floggot16v]

A good starting point is to ditch the standard carb and fit the weber upgrade, G&S sell them.
Just fitted one to my 1.8, WOW, what a difference.
You will have to fit a choke cable though, the weber is manual choke.
Well worth the hassle though.
You could also fit a mk1 gti exhaust manifold and system, help her breath more easily.
Fitting injection is a chore as you will need wiring, pumps tank etc.
Fit the weber and enjoy.
 
Woody~K