1989 Volkswagen Jetta GTi 8v 1.8 petrol from UK and Ireland
Summary:
Better than the Golf GTi
Faults:
In 9 years, very little.
The sump went porous after about 4 years.
I have had problems with the rear callipers seizing if the car is idle for a while. Both have been replaced.
Front wheel bearings don't last long again, both have been replaced twice and the passenger side is humming again.
On the whole, very reliable.
General Comments:
Fast car if the revs are kept up and better handling than the Golf GTi.
Engine still seems to be loosening up and it doesn't use a drop of oil.
I do all my own servicing and repairs, relatively easy car to work on.
I don't think I will part with this car as I thoroughly enjoy driving it even compared to my wife's 1999 Golf GT TDI which is also an excellent car.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 27th December, 2000
9th Jan 2001, 18:47
I had a Jetta GTI 8V for 3 years. It had 136,000 miles on it when I bought it. The general rule that I have heard is that the 1.8 8v engine only comes into its own at around 90,000 miles.
The rear brake calipers are an inherant problem as the handbrake mechanism works on a rotating cam system. This cam wears out and tends to lock the rear brakes on - sadly, expensive to remedy.
I sold my Jetta to a friend when it had 187,000 miles. The only major thing done was a set of hydraulic tappets.
My friend sold it on to his brother with 197,000 miles - not bad for a petrol engine - clever Germans!!!