MK5 - Beginners guide to buying my First Golf GTI

[Rhyso]

I'm aware of the Mk4 many... many... many shortfalls, but I wrote that after reading an article in PVW on a Mk4 that looked beautiful. Now sat here with a cup of tea I realise that I may of been wrong. I apologise.

MK4 is arguably the better looking but performance wise its way behind the times which is to be expected as it was designed in the 90's!!

[vwfiend]

Some 90's performance is still awesome, even today as emissions didn't count as much prior to 2001. Sadly, VW have NEVER impressed me on power or fun. Fanboys argue 'yeah but with a remap' etc etc they're awesome........ Well so is any car (within reason, more FI cars than NA). Off the top of my head, 5 cars from the 90's that kick ass are......
E36 M3 and Evo (same economy as mk5, 100bhp more)
e39 M5
300zx TT SWB
DC2 Type R
Evo 5

[AlanD]

As others have said. Dont bother trying to make a rep, it will be a waste of time and money.

Also dont bother with a wrap, just buy it in the colour you want. What kind of spec are you after?

[th3_f15t]

Some 90's performance is still awesome, even today as emissions didn't count as much prior to 2001. Sadly, VW have NEVER impressed me on power or fun. Fanboys argue 'yeah but with a remap' etc etc they're awesome........ Well so is any car (within reason, more FI cars than NA). Off the top of my head, 5 cars from the 90's that kick ass are......
E36 M3 and Evo (same economy as mk5, 100bhp more)
e39 M5
300zx TT SWB
DC2 Type R
Evo 5

I would be inclined to agree in a sense, as yes, most VW's have always felt a bit restrained, scared to go completely nuts... Until the R division was allowed out to play.

But I always get asked "Why do you love VW so much?" and the simple answer is "Same reason I breath air. Just one of those things...".

[zaklfc9]

Thanks for the replies guys!

I dont even like standard MK5 never mind a MK4. I will defiantly be buying a MK5 GTI 05/06.

If I avoid the DSG what other parts can be costly? Also on average what are you guys spending yearly for servicing and general wear and tear. I know the DSG can cost around 2k so im just going for a manual!

Also most the ones im looking at are around 80.000 miles on the clock most going over 100. If they have been serviced correctly, cam belt changed after 70-80k miles etc then am I okay with buying one thats done 100.000 miles or should I definitely look for something around 50-70.000 miles?

[zaklfc9]

AlanD - again without sounding like a complete tw*t, i have no idea of the differences in spec!

Anyone able to give me a quick low-down regarding spec and differences please.

The only thing ive made a decision on is that it will def be atleast 05, avoiding DSG as I would be wounded if i had to replace it for 2k!

What do you guys think of this,I Like the monzas but the R32 rims stand out a little more to me?

http://www.gumtree.com/p/cars-vans-motorbikes/vw-golf-gti-2005-white-3dr-dsg/1033338985

[th3_f15t]

OK, first off that's DSG Golf, so it contradicts what you have said one post ago.

Personally, 12,000 per year of the car, good full history, cam belt changed at 60,000 miles is essential and just make sure that the VW schedule has been kept, go to any dealer website and check it out. I got my golf at 70,000 miles, full history but it had missed it's cam belt and other bits, but only paid £7,250.

[vwfiend]

Thanks for the replies guys!

I dont even like standard MK5 never mind a MK4. I will defiantly be buying a MK5 GTI 05/06.

If I avoid the DSG what other parts can be costly? Also on average what are you guys spending yearly for servicing and general wear and tear. I know the DSG can cost around 2k so im just going for a manual!

Also most the ones im looking at are around 80.000 miles on the clock most going over 100. If they have been serviced correctly, cam belt changed after 70-80k miles etc then am I okay with buying one thats done 100.000 miles or should I definitely look for something around 50-70.000 miles?

I'll save ya the hassle...... Mines a Black 2008 with 59k. Cambelt and tensioners, new mechatronics done between 50 and 55k. DSG oil and full service done around 600 miles ago. FSH up to that. No dents, interior literally as new, leathers, winter pack, exterior clayed twice in my ownership, waxed monthly and washed weekly. I am the 2nd owner. Pm me if ya like........?

[th3_f15t]

Dammit! Even I'm tempted, lol!

[zaklfc9]

Mike, The car I put up wasnt to say thats what I will buy but for the price it was listed at I wanted to know if that was a reasonable price as the going price for mileage around 70-110k seems around £4500 - £5500.

Like I said I will definitely go for one without the DSG as I wouldn't to take a 2k hit at any point and looking to keep the car for a few years. I can deal with the normal wear and tear, servicing and problems here and there but 2k at one point seems alot when the car is costing 5k.

VWFIEND - Thanks for the offer but Im almost certain that will be out of my price range :  )

5k and you got a deal lol