Faults:

Passenger window winder cable snapped, easy to fix.

Heater matrix failed at about 128,000 miles.

Engine misfires slightly at idle, but I think this is due to carbon build-up. I don't want to take it apart for a de-coke as it's never been apart before. I'll try the Forte cleaner stuff (it's meant to be good).

General Comments:

Although expensive to buy, this car is worth every penny. Very reliable, at 130,000 miles, the car uses absolutely NO oil. No leaks, no rattles (apart from the last owner who left a socket rolling around in the cross member!), no real mechanical failures so far, and it drives like new! Bodywork great, not a sign of rust, and interior is keeping clean nicely. Very pleased with this car, especially after a Ford (it drives better than the new Fords!) Looks good too (all it needs is those bigger bumpers!) It also turns out cheaper to run because it doesn't need constant trips to the garage for work every other week.

Faults:

Misfiring/stalling when wet (read damp!)

Temperature sender unit broke after engine got hot.

Misfiring/stalling on longer journeys. New tyres (GTi alloys need 195/50x15 - very expensive).

Drivers side driveshaft damper came loose, causing a clunking noise.

Front engine mount had it.

Drivers window rattles.

General Comments:

Looks good in Midnight Blue metallic with BBS alloys - people are convinced it cost me a fortune.

Bought from salvage. Little things hard to find (new parcel shelf in grey, new rear seat cushion etc etc).

Faults:

Complete exhaust system.

Both front CV joints.

Water pump.

General Comments:

Fantasic fun to drive.

After upgrading to this from an Escort 1.3 you can feel the power but after time you want something with extra beef.

Wicked 2nd car and worth every penny.

Even though it's only a 1.6 I've got 115 mph out of it!!

You can trash GTi's, Jags, well just about anything as long as they are flooring as well !!

Faults:

Problem with release bearing. Fixed by dealer under warranty.

New alternator after 6 years.

New power steering pump after 8 years.

New battery at 3 years and 6 years.

2 windscreens.

New exhaust after 6 years.

Many tyres!

General Comments:

Very reliable and economical. 35mpg easily when driving sensibly! Parts cheap if buying from independent parts suppliers. Good handling, good brakes, loads of space. Wears well. Faithful companion!

Cons? Noisy, tyre noise. Lack of torque. Needs revs.

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

The car has covered over 150,000 miles, I have run it for the last 80,000 of those. In which time I have only had to replace consumable parts (Tyres, Exhaust, Shock Absorbers, Brake Pads etc).

The cheapest, most reliable and fun mass produced car I have owned.

Faults:

Well, nothing serious.

Had an exhaust go on me - beware, VW original part price was 1,863GBP! Now has Supersprint replacement.

Minor electrics problems with doors.

Adjustable suspension very susceptible to knocks. Cars with suspension mods eat tyres!

General Comments:

Fabulous. A wonderful refined alternative to an Integrale. Get a UK car (SE) if you can, leather and electric windows/sunroof are creature comforts the Euro cars didn't have.

Beware high running costs - mine returns 26-28mpg when I'm being gentle, and 24 when I'm not. Runs cleanest on 98, does okay on 95. Watch for tired superchargers. Make sure all recall work is done on cars with lapsed Service History - heat exchangers needed doing on mine when bought.

Faults:

Usual stuff (ie tyres, exhausts etc).

Minor trouble with choke.

Pinhole leak in inlet manifold caused some coolant loss.

Rough idle needs attention occasionally.

General Comments:

Current mileage stands at 146,000 (original clutch, gearbox etc) always

had it serviced by VW who are not cheap.