No power, won't rev over 3000rpm

[Alex9315]

I'm a new owner of a 1997 2.0 gti.
I've had a brief look through other posts but can't find anything.
I'm probably blind so if anyone can point me in the right direction, please do so.

When driving, the car seems very low on power, it will not Rev over 3000rpm.
It also seems to have a misfire.
With no power I have to change up at about 2500rpm so I can't utilise the power properly.

I'm no mechanic but I'll give the basics a go.
I will change oil, air and fuel filters tomorrow along with spark plugs.
Anything else I can do or is this something more serious??

Any help most welcome.
Thanks in advance

[VW BUSH]

If timing is out it will go into safe mode and limit to 5k rpm by default.
I would check this as well as the coil for your running issue
Do leads and plugs as par the course.
Also fit new fuel and ecu relays if you don't know their history.
Check all vac lines and MAF sensors/ISV's.
If it continues you have then covered all the cheaper easier known faults before crank sensors etc etc.

[Alex9315]

Fitted new coil, new plugs, new leads, new distributor, new air filter,  new fuel filter, new timing belt, reset the timing, cleared all fault codes..... and still the car won't rev over 3000rpm.

I am stumped!!!
This is a money pit that has beat me.
If anyone wants to take on this amazing little car, it's sitting in my garage waiting for a (very patient) new owner.
Car is located near Wimbledon.
If no interest, it will be going to the big scrap heap in the sky.

[Leon27]

Depending on what engine you have and it's set up you should be able to remove the pre cat oxygen sensor, then try to rev the car. This will eliminate whether the cat is blocked up or not.

[Alex9315]

I've bought another golf, same year but a 3 door.
I've removed all the new bits I fitted to the broken car (plugs, leads, coil, etc) and fitted them on the replacement car.

It seemed like the easier option as the 5 door has a problem that has beaten me.
If anyone wants to take the car please let me know, otherwise it will go on eBay as scrap/ parts or will be collected by a scrap merchant.
Thanks

[donnyrayvon]

If the car you are scrapping has front fog operation on the headlight switch do you want to sell

[Alex9315]

I've been offered £122 to scrap it but would like to see it back on the road.
The car is located in Morden, Surrey.
If you would like the car please call me on 07883071403