Autocar - First for car news and reviews

I'm thinking of buying a mk2 Golf GTI , i just wanted some advice on what to look out for and if i should go for a 8v or 16v

try and find a standard one thats been cared for.  Look for rust, particularly arouns the fuel filler and obvious places underneath.  Headgaskets, looks for interios leaks & damp carpets.  they are pretty solid and fairly simplistic and a seriously good hoot!

 go on clubgti.com - have a scoot round the forum for advice - do a search on the old 8v vs 16v debate.  I wouldn't bother starting a new thread on it, unless you fancy some earache!

thanks for the advice on what to look out for , don't think i'm too bothered wether i buy an 8v or 16v just as long as they're as good to drive as my old 205 gti

If you are coming out of a 205, then I would look at getting the 16v version, to give you the shove that you are used to.  The 8v is a good car, but a little slower.

Great car and a future classic.  Make sure you get a standard one though.

How much are you looking to spend? Mine 16V is up for sale shortly, pics can be seen on the Club GTI members cars section if you are interested.

They are great cars and still feel modern to drive even today.

I had an 8v which had some brakes issues and a headgasket problem. Other than that it was spot on.

Personally prefer the 8v, as 16v felt a bit peaky.

 Check volkswizard for cars

I've had both and didn't find the 16V that different - just faster.

Volkswizard has some nice cars but verrry pricey compared to what you can get them for (but then I am biased!) 

racingboots:

thanks for the advice on what to look out for , don't think i'm too bothered wether i buy an 8v or 16v just as long as they're as good to drive as my old 205 gti

Look for another good 205GTI.  There's plenty of time to be old and sensible later.

Nothing old or especially sensible about a Mk2 GTI. They are fabulous cars. I had an 8v and three 16vs, one of which was a US car with the two litre Motronic lump from the Passat.

The standard 1.8 16v is clearly the one to have. Needs revving compared to the 8v but that's no hardship as the engine sings cleanly for a 4-banger and should be eager to rev if it's a good one.

Any Mk2 will benefit from having a suspension overhaul with good quality aftermarket shocks/springs to reduce bodyroll, but they handle very keenly indeed.

haven't really set myself a budget yet , just looking round to see whats available , which car is yours on the club gti website

racingboots:

haven't really set myself a budget yet , just looking round to see whats available , which car is yours on the club gti website

Here's a link http://www.clubgti.com/forum/showthread.php?t=176706

Enjoy the search whatever you get, it's half the fun!

car looks lovely , my email addy is bootstoms@btinternet.com , tell me more about the car and how much you're looking for it