1984 Volkswagen Jetta GLi 1.8 8v Gas from North America
Summary:
Reliable, Solid, Performer..
Faults:
Normal wear and tear, nothing catastrophic.
A lot of annoying things happened at 280,000 kms, dash lights, fan motor switch, fuel line corrosion, etc.
Gas tank rusted out at 200,000 kms. This is common to pre-1985 VWs because of steel tanks. This is a big job because the rear suspension has to be removed to get at the tank.
General Comments:
Fun to drive and hugely reliable.
Parts are typically more expensive, but genuine VW parts tend to last longer.
You don't "drive" it, you "wear" this car like clothes.
Could use a few more ponies...
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 4th November, 2002
22nd Nov 2007, 09:17
I just purchased a 1984 Jetta. Thing's in great shape, but, boy, it sure is sluggish.
It has a new timing belt, tensioner, alternator, battery, spark plugs, spark plug wires, but it seems it still lacks power.
I can't believe they were made this way. I got a compression check and that seems OK, although one cylinder is a little lower than the others. Might the injectors need to be replaced?
19th Nov 2007, 22:15
I have an 84 with the 1.7 8v. Do the ponies differ much? I seem to think the 74hp the 1.7 has is far MORE sufficient then what is needed to haul this little car up to 140+ km/h with 4 people on board. You must be used to driving muscle cars or something..?