Faults:

Biggest problem was the vacuum system. Had this 6 ball contraption attached to the underside of the hood. Leaked - expensive to replace.

Interior fit and finish.

Window cranks and sun roof cranks hard to use. Needed replacement.

Cloth seats couldn't take the wear.

Other than that, no problems with this car. Loved it, I wish I still had it.

Great road feel. Super quick considering the engine size. Handled like a dream.

General Comments:

I think I put them in my negative comments, but this car was quick and handled like a dream. I was young and used to race through the canyons of LA, and could keep up with a Porsche as long as the road didn't have long straightaways.

With the exception of manual steering, I would love to drive it again. Unfortunately I totaled it. Got a Honda and hated it. I have a new GTI now, but will always miss this car.

Faults:

Struts

Alternator

Starter

Hood latch

Clutch

Clutch cable

Seats

Fuel pump

Fuel pressure regulator

Cold start valve

Water pump

Keep in mind I had over 250,000 miles on it.

General Comments:

This car is fast for the size of the engine.

The torque is great.

The handling was on par with cars costing many thousands of dollars more.

The mileage was terrific. I got about 35 miles to the gallon and drove the car without mercy.

The seats were very supportive in cornering vastly aiding in hard core driving.

Faults:

The gas tank had a crack and needed to be replaced. This was quite expensive.

The shift linkage was worn and needed to be replaced. This was moderately inexpensive.

Various, inexpensive engine parts needed replacement.

General Comments:

The performance of this 20 year old car is amazing. With only 90 stock horsepower, this 1900 pound bunny is deceptively quick. Almost more impressive is it's handling, which is second to none in driver involvement. The lack of power steering allows the driver to feel everything the front wheels touch through his/her fingers. As Volkswagen said, The Rabbit GTI is a wolf in sheep's clothing.

While it's not the most reliable car, you must take into account that it is 20 years old. With that consideration, the car is a marvel.

The interior of the vehicle is surprisingly roomy, but unmistakably driver oriented. The steering wheel, pedals and shifter are all in easy reach, promoting spirited driving. The gauges are also placed for ease of use.

Basically, the Rabbit GTI is one of the last true sports cars. It is lightweight, has no power steering and has left out most interior niceties which plague current "performance" vehicles, robbing them of speed.

Faults:

The right front wheel bearing went at 216000kms.

Fuel line leakage at rear at 230000kms.

After-market alternator went, but was rebuilt roadside in 20-30minutes.

Headliner material dropping from headliner.

Intake manifold bolts loosened at 365000kms.

General Comments:

The GTI is very quick off the mark, and has excellent cornering capabilities.

The stock seats are very comfortable and feel like they wrap around you.

I am 6 1', and I fit in the car just nicely. I wouldn't want to be any taller!

The car gets a lot of looks!