1998 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6

Back when I had my Mk3 GTI 2.0, I longed for the day I could afford a VR6. Even though the added horsepower coupled with front-wheel drive generally goes against my motoring tendencies, I think it is safe to say this narrow angle V6 was one of the best powerplants of the last couple decades, ranking up there with BMW’s inline-6 and Audi’s 4.2 liter V8. The VR6 ended up in a lot of different VAG products and still does duty in some models in various forms to this day. One of the lesser seen VR6 engined VWs you see these days is the Mk3 Jetta GLX VR6. Offering similar thrills to the GTI but with added practicality, this was a formidable competitor in its class. Like the Mk3 Golfs and GTIs, it’s near impossible to find good examples of the Mk3 Jetta, no matter what engine it’s packing. This GLX VR6 for sale in Philadelphia is a little rough around the edges but has the all-important 5-speed manual gearbox and is generally nicer than any others I’ve seen on the market as of late.

Click for more details: 1998 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 on eBay

Year: 1998
Model: Jetta GLX VR6
Engine: 2.8 liter VR6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 136,336 mi
Price: No reserve auction

I would hope that sellers who list their cars in the future would take the time to write up a description before jumping the gun and listing the car, but barring any sort of detail, it does appear that this Jetta is a bit of a survivor of sorts. The VR6 engined Mk3 GTIs and Jettas have become affordable performance machines, offering smooth power and German engineering even if these cars were plagued with some teething issues that manifest over time. The starting bid for this example doesn’t leave a whole lot for movement, as even the fast versions of the Mk3 Jetta haven’t reached the level of what a really good Mk2 Jetta GLI would bring today. If someone snags this for around $3,500, it would be a decent performance bargain.

-Paul