Considering a move to a GTI

[DarkSideJohn]

Hey folks ,
I've had my '04 GT TDI for almost a year now and while I am impressed with the build quality of the mk5 I feel there is something lacking. I do drive a lot but due to changes in circumstances it tends to be short trips.

For example my work commute is now around 4 miles each way compared to the 16/17 miles each way that I've done for years previously.

I've been tempted by a GTI for some time now , mainly for the increased performance on my 140 Tdi. I often find that even though my Tdi can achieve great mpg , it doesn't get enough opportunity to do so a lot lately.

I guess my real question is , how am I going to feel/cope from going from a 140 mk5 gt Tdi and a 110 mk4 Tdi and 1.4 16v mk4 before that !
What sort of value should I place on my motor ? I paid a few notes under 5k for it myself

Am I going to get the same sort of spec without paying the earth , my main requirements would be 5 door , leathers all round , and that's about it ! Not too picky but wouldn't want to take a step backwards

These questions have probably came up before and I'm sorry for that , I know my way around Tdi's but GTI's are a bit of a mystery at the moment


Thanks for your time !
John

[Kalpsn2000]

Do it!!!

You won't regret it. I am coming up to 2 years ownership and it still puts a smile on my face every time I get out in it My previous car was a 1.9 TDI (well it was my old mans I was sharing for 3 months), so actually my previous car was a mk2 1.6 and the difference is crazy

Also with your short journeys you won't feel the drop in MPG as much and the enjoyment will go up.

[JoeDarKa]

Buy a bike and use the GTI at weekends! Job done

[DarkSideJohn]

Are there any particular problematic things to look out for on GTI's or is it just the general mk5 type stuff ?
What to avoid etc

Ta :)

[Black9]

Corrosion on front wings and rear boot area can be a prob on some cars,
Broken rear springs, worn bushes and also split DV (Diverter valves)

Buy one they're great cars

[DarkSideJohn]

Broadly speaking what would be the kinda ball park price on a reasonable 5 door manual GTI with leather , that's about my only requirement to be honest , I like the leather in my Tdi so don't really want to go backwards !

Obviously people will buy / sell for what they can, but just looking for a rough idea so I can start putting the pennies away !

Are there any years of production that were particularly problematic and likewise what years were they in there prime ?

Sorry for all the questions that have probably came up before its just I've been a dirty diesel owner for the last few years !

Thanks as allways :)

[Moz]

Could be interested in a swap if you like ?

[Rachael]

Hiya,

I was in exactly the same position. Commute to world changed. Definitely do it. I never looked back. I was fortunate because my dad bought my diesel so it was hassle free sale!

Exactly what black 9 said to watch out for. Also white worm on monza 18's. Had mine refurbed though and they look fine now. I believe engine codes were changed towards end of 2005 (I think), not quite sure on why they were changed.

As for price, what plate you looking for?! And how many miles?!

[Rachael]

Commute to work*. I didn't commute round the world

[Peppermuncher]

On the problems front, I've just had my 56 plate GTI 3dr back from its 40,000 service. Came back from the dealer with only a slight word of advice to keep an eye on the rear tyres. Everything else was spot on. 

Like all cars, sometimes you just pick up a dog or an angel. My 55 plate LEON was a dog. 

[DarkSideJohn]

Currently my '04 reflex silver GT TDI 140 has just crept over the 92k miles, with no expense spared on repairs over the years ( I purchased it from a family friend who used it has his daily since near new ), 5 Doors , leathers all round (heated up front ) and thats about it !

Id be looking for another 5 door, leathers inside as im used to that now ! Mileage is a bit of mystery for me to be honest, I know diesels can go for years and years if kept well,  as a rough guess i suppose id be looking around the 60-70k mark ?

As for plate , probably looking at around 04-07...I say this because Im only just hitting the grand old age of 23 (end of this month...hint hint ) and don't have endless money to burn !

Been trying to think what features I would like while at work today , narrowed it down to :

5 Doors
Leather interior
17 inch alloys
Preferably Black or Red colour wise

That would be my minimum really
I would desire
Highline
MFSW
Decent head unit e.g RNS510 or RCD510 etc

I still havnt made my mind up about the whole DSG vs Manual saga....Have always driven manuals since my first ever car, not sure how I would get on with a DSG, think i enjoy having a clutch pedal and gear stick too much lol !

That was my thinking , so dont know on price !

[BigWaz]

If you do go for it, be aware of the extra unwanted attention it will get & take precautions (never leave keys at home). Mine only lasted 2 weeks on my driveway, but they were a great 2 weeks if its any consolation.

[Andy]

NO stick with the tdi

[DarkSideJohn]

Ive narrowed down what I'm after , I think !
Manual , 5 doors , 06/56 plate , leathers , 60 ish k miles

Would 5-7k be too optimistic ?

[antman_1]

im in the same boat dude, my commute is only 7miles each way. just want a little more power and love the gti looks. currently driving a gt 140