1998 Volkswagen Jetta GT 2.0 Liter 4 from North America
Summary:
Performance and refinement galore for a small price
Faults:
Small oil Leak from oil pressure switch when new.
Wiper motor defect when new.
Recent upper strut bushings.
General Comments:
The Jetta GT is a pleasure to own and drive with it's German personality and styling showing throughout. The exhaust sings with every movement of the accelerator and it steers like a go cart. Suspension is compliant over bumps without introducing much body lean. Firm and supportive seats. Flawless black factory paint and panel fit. high quality materials and design throughout. 25 more horsepower wouldn't hurt a bit, but once rolling the Jetta has a command of the road and will cruise a 80+ mph all day every day. No squeaks or rattles after almost 5 years. Huge trunk without compromise to body styling.
Honda and Toyota freaks will quickly point out that their cars are more trouble free, especially if they happen to be a bean counter who never drove anything, but a golfball. The Japanese are probably still better at initial quality statistics, but their cars are boring to the point of inducing sleep.
Start the Jetta, drop the clutch and let it do it's thing.
Warranty claims fix niggling details and then you're left with a truly unique car in it's class with 250,000+ mile durability.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 2nd October, 2002
11th Sep 2005, 14:47
I Myself own a 1998 VW Jetta GT. I love the way this car drives, it accelerates very quickly, and by the time I hit 5th gear I'm already cruising at 85 MPH. It rides very smooth, corners very well. I can take a 40mph corner about 65-70mph without losing control. However I do need to replace the front CV Joints and front rotors and brakes Along with a front and back alignment costing me about $550 for parts and labor.
Thanks,
GT Fan.