1983 Volkswagen Jetta C 1.3 petrol from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Every home should have four

Faults:

Intermittent fuel fault eventually traced (we hope!) to debris in the fuel tank which periodically floated into the pipe.

New clutch and appropriate oil seal fitted after oil dripped on the old clutch at 98,800 miles.

Clunking on the left front wheel/suspension yet to be diagnosed, but thought to be the result of a large pot-hole.

Flat battery this winter - I had to be jumped by a Ford :( !!!

General Comments:

I love my Jetta!

It's better value than a Golf - I paid £250, the equivalent Golf would've been at least double.

The boot is about the same size as my dad's Passat estate.

It's a great first car.

The performance mark above is relative to it being a family-size car with a relatively small engine. I gave it a high mark because I've taken a Merc 190E and an MG Metro at traffic lights without trying too hard. I didn't bother with the Porsche though... :)

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 6th January, 2001

7th Jan 2001, 09:01

Maybe the Merc and the Metro didn't try...

11th Feb 2001, 18:52

Before I start, please don't think I'm a boy racer (big wheels, big exhaust, little engine) - I'd never forgive myself if I became one!!!

Both drivers were trying to push in front from the turning lane at filter lights (at seperate times, mind). They do it all the time at those lights - you can tell they're going to when they pull up! I don't like it when people do that!

I know the Merc didn't try hard, presumably because he assumed an ancient VW couldn't handle it - I know what you're thinking! The Metro was most definitely trying - you could tell by the noise! Besides, the Jetta's a 1.3 - it needs all the ego boosting it can get!!!

13th Dec 2005, 06:04

Wow I agree with the other comments, what a car... I just picked up a 1986 Jetta C and I am very pleased with it except the boot is always wet and the heater fan has stopped working. It has 97,765 miles on the clock and still moves when you need it to.

1983 Volkswagen Jetta Wolfsburg Edition 1.8L Gas from North America

Summary:

Excellent small sports car

Faults:

Wheel bearings, fuel pump, door handles. The driver's door hinge is weak so the door shuts incorrectly.

General Comments:

The car has held up exceptionally well, considering it is from Vermont. It has been run each Winter since I've owned it and has no rust at all. I wash and wax the car regularly, change the oil every 3000 miles and generally maintain it well.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th June, 2000

1983 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.6 gas from Switzerland

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

Sufficient power, runs on cheap regular, low fuel consumption, burns no oil, ample space (huge boot).

Top speed 170 km/h.

Two little rusty spots near each lower corner of the windshield but nowhere else. Has run 160,000 km.

Overall condition is excellent for its age.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th April, 1999