Faults:

Big end bearings seized.

Head gasket.

Water pump.

Cramped back seats.

General Comments:

If you want a GTI, make sure to get one in between a Y and B reg. These models have a DX engine with bigger injectors and a bigger cylinder bore than the other models.

Out performs other car in its class.

Seating position is low to the ground, giving you a sporty feel.

Handling is OK, but you will need to get a decent lowering kit.

Faults:

Water in the fuel tank.

Weak brakes.

Automatic choke on the carb not reliable.

Old boaty shock absorbers.

High insurance.

General Comments:

Very good, surprisingly light car.

Very well built.

Very nice to drive.

Makes a nice noise.

Raw driving fun.

Surprises 'modern' cars away from the lights.

Good value for money, only problem - insurance...

Very cheap to buy a good one.

If respected - will go on to do well over 150,000 miles, Go and buy one, and see for yourselves.

Faults:

Nothing. I've had a few things fixed, but nothing that stopped it from working. Oh, and plenty of tuning.

General Comments:

Whee. Also Vroom and Mad Cackle. This car is serious fun. I've driven a lot of cars. None have been quite as uncomfortable as this (perhaps because I'm so tall?), but this car is seriously quick (I dread to think what the supercharged version is like!). It sounds wonderful when accelerating (a pleasing howl from the carbs), and also when engine braking (a fiery burbling crackle from the exhaust). Its faster than VW claim, a delight to handle and a delight to drive. But be warned. Make sure you get a good one (many have been boy racered), and you'll have to keep it well serviced and tuned in order to enjoy its speed. Oh, and for comforts sake you'll have to be a midget too. Serious fun.