The Jetta GLI has always been a object of desire for me. While the GLI really gained fame with the Mk2 generation, it was a final-year offering on the excellent first-gen sedan, bringing most of the GTI goodies to the 3-box setup. This red example has been with the same owner for the last 15 years and is looking pretty darn good on BBS 3-piece rims with what look to be like-new Euro bumpers and front lip. The interior also looks outstanding for being over 30 years old, but a few blemishes inside and out keep this from being a perfect package. A small rust spot, mismatched tires, and paint issues on the roof are all fixable but indicate the projects will continue.
Click for details: 1984 Volkswagen Jetta GLI on eBay
Year: 1984
Model: Jetta GLI
Engine: 1.8 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 115,859 mi
Price: Reserve auction
Up for auction is one very rare 1984 VW Jetta GLI
I am selling this for my best friend. He has owned this car for 15 years. It has been garaged while he has owned it. It is an extremely well maintained and un-modified factory survivor. He is availabe to respond to any questions.
Original 1.8 Liter engine with only 115859 miles
Fuel injected
5 speed manual transmission
Front & rear factory stabilizer bars
Factory 4 wheel disc brakes
BBS Wheels
Euro bumpers
Ice cold factory A/C
Factory guages all in good working condition
Sunroof
Momo steering wheel
Stainless steel exaust
Factory paint
All new vacuum rubber on engine
New radiator
New battery
Heavy duty 70 Amp alternator
Clutch replaced a few years ago with only a few thousand miles on it.
Alpine stereo
CV joints are 1 year old
3 tires are new, 1 is older with good tread. 195 50 R15
Instrument cluster has been replaced
Transmission shifter bushings have been replaced
Heater core has been replaced
1 rust spot in center of front glass, as shown in picture.
Good original glass
And more
Lots of receiptsThere are no known issues or problems with this GLI
A little time and money could make this an exceptional Mk1. If it can break through the reserve barrier, this survivor could make an 80s VW fan very happy. Somewhere between $3-4k seems fair, which is roughly half what a comparable Mk1 GTI would demand. GLI lovers, rejoice!
-NR
Given the condition that most of these are in, it is nice to see one so close to original. Having been the proud purchaser of one of these cars when they were new, I can pass along a few bits of wisdom. There are a couple of issues with these cars that prospective owners should know:
They did NOT come from the factory with 4 wheel disc brakes. If this one really has discs on all four corners, it is a conversion.
These cars did not come with power steering, so that smaller diameter Momo steering wheel is going to make steering effort even harder than usual.
It SHOULD have the close ratio 4K 5 speed transmission to be correct. Many of them have been swapped out over the years for the more common overdrive 5 speeds.
The odometers in these cars are notorious for breaking. Combine that with the seller’s statement that the instrument cluster has been replaced, and a prospective buyer needs to carefully vet the mileage claim.
Wheel bearings seem to have fairly short lifespans in these cars.
Intact vacuum hoses and good, clean grounds are key to keeping these cars running right.
Excuse me while I now go try to forget about this car. I’ve been feeling pretty nostalgic for my college days lately and this isn’t helping any.