1992 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI Mk2 8v

This 1992 VW Golf GTI Mk2 8v is an original and unmolested car in an appealing colour combination, and is a solid example of this affordable modern classic. With no modifications and regular maintenance throughout its life, the eight-valve 1.8-litre petrol has driven 151,000 miles from new, but its exterior and interior condition presents as a car with half that mileage. Painted in Tornado Red with a pristine grey and colour-stripe interior, as well as the desirable sunroof, this Golf GTI is a reliable and rewarding hot hatch that is ready to be enjoyed frequently.

An original UK-delivered example registered in May 1992, it was put into regular use, covering an average of around 8,000 miles per year in its first 15 years on the road. The vendor acquired the car two years ago when the mileage sat around 147,000, and he has since attended to numerous areas to ensure that the car is both structurally sound and mechanically dependable.

At a glance, this VW Golf GTI looks immaculate, and on closer inspection is still impressive for its age. The paintwork is bright and clean, with no obvious rust present. The vendor reports that several sections have been treated and received new paint to attain this condition, and the work has been done to the highest standards. Door, bonnet and boot shuts are all in good condition – with minor imperfections as shown by the photos in the gallery.

The car sits on the desirable 15-inch BBS alloy wheels, which have all been recently refurbished. The vendor notes that there are a few stone chips to the paintwork, but that in general the whole exterior looks very presentable.

Any well-used Golf GTI Mk2 will have chassis and underside rust at some stage, and the vendor has had this professionally attended to during his ownership. The work has included replacement of the inner and outer sills, as well as the rear wheel arches, followed by the application of a rust prevention treatment.

The upholstery and interior trim of this Golf GTI are in superb order. There are no rips, tears or heavy wear to any sections. The seats, door cards and dashboard all present smartly, and of course it retains its ‘golf ball’ gear knob. The headliner is also undamaged with no sagging. The only non-factory addition is the contemporary Alpine head unit.

Mechanically strong, the vendor reports that the engine starts first time, every time, and pulls strongly. Several videos show the car being started and running smoothly, with a tuneful burble from the dual exhaust. The timing belt was replaced in June 2016 at 147,313 miles. During the vendor’s ownership, at 150,000 miles, the oil and filter were renewed, and the car received a new set of spark plugs. He has also seen to a new starter motor, new battery, replacement petrol tank straps, and four brand-new Pirelli tyres – which still have approximately 7mm of tread.

Two front CV joint boots have just been replaced, which was an advisory from the previous MOT. Per the vendor's note in the comments below, the car is now under a fresh MOT until June 2020.

All the books and tools supplied new with the car are still with it. The handbook, original service book, VW folder, two car jacks and the space-saver spare wheel and tyre are all included in the sale. The service history is extensive, with a ring binder of chronological receipts for work carried out throughout the car’s life, including notes of the timing belt replacements, brakes and suspension maintenance, and the MOT history.

The low-down torque of the eight-valve VW Golf GTI Mk2 makes it perfectly useable classic – one which could even be used as a daily driver if desired. It is becoming harder to find original, unmodified examples; more so cars that have had the necessary levels of care and attention to make it reliable for regular use. This particular Golf GTI therefore represents a timely opportunity to buy a well-cared-for car that is ready to put a smile on your face as often as you like. In the vendor’s own words: “If you want a GTI that looks and feels like it did in the ‘90s and is ready to be enjoyed then this is a great ownership prospect.”