2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLi

While the GTi, and more recently “R” models, have enjoyed the Volkswagen performance limelight, in the background has been an equally fun and nearly as capable sedan. Since the A1 chassis, Volkswagen has offered the same underpinnings with slightly different style in the betrunken Jetta (clever, that), and just like the GTi there have been some special models along the way. For example, the Wolfsburg Limited Edition “Helios” GLi was one of my favorite 80s VWs, with the beautiful blue color matched on the BBS RA alloys and uniquely striped Recaro seats. While the Mk.3 model lost the GLi in favor of the upscale GLX VR6 models, the GLi made a triumphant return in the Mk.4. As with the Golf, it was available with either VR6 or 1.8T turbocharged powerplants, and in fact the Jetta got an undercover screamer in a 24V version of the VR6 not offered in the Golf. Today, though, we’re taking a look at the equivalent of the 20th Anniversary Edition GTi in the Jetta lineup:

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLi on eBay

Year: 2004
Model: Jetta GLi
Engine: 1.8 liter turbocharged inline-4
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage: 113,270 mi
Price: $7,995 Buy It Now

Rare GLI 6 Speed Manual Transmission Sunroof Recaro Seats Factory BBS Wheels w/ Recent Tires Monsoon Sound System Keyless Entry 1.8L Four Cylinder Turbo Charged Engine All Original Mark 4 GLi 2 Owner Carfax w/ Full Service Records BRING YOUR OWN FINANCE WITH YOU FROM A CREDIT UNION or BANK BEFORE ANY TEST DRIVES Ask about our Nation Wide Preferred Warranties-á WE SHIP NATION WIDE AND FREE AIRPORT SHUTTLE

As with the Limited Edition, the interior of these Jettas was upgraded with a great set of Recaros and featured the slick-shifting 6-speed manual tied to a 180 horsepower version of the 1.8T – code AWP. The GLi also featured special seat belts and aluminum trim, contrasting stitched steering wheel and emergency brakes, a Monsoon stereo system and sunroof standard. Outside, again like the GTi the GLi received special Votex lower body cladding and exposed larger exhaust pipe, special headlights and taillights and body colored mirror housings, but the trump card was a stellar looking set of BBS RC 18″ wheels. Though visually they matched the 337 GTi model, in reality they were a slightly different finish but still awesome looking. Under them were the same TT-derived brakes the GTi wore, at 12.3 inches in front and 10.1 in rear with red painted calipers. Suspension was lowered with Eibach/Driver Gear 20% stiffer and 1″ lower suspension, with 21 and 23mm front and rear sway bars. The result of these changes was the first seriously sporty looking Jetta in quite a while, and though not the fastest sedan on the market they certainly are entertaining to drive. Unlike the GTi 20th, there was a full range of colors available on the Jetta, such as this Platinum Gray Metallic example. Also, again unlike the GTi, finding a decent original example that hasn’t been beaten within an inch of its life is easier. In this case, the 2004 here shows slightly below average mileage in slightly above average condition. In general, repairs on these models are perhaps more frequent than an average economy car and they don’t have the best reputation for quality, but they’re still quite affordable sporty options that are easily overlooked.

-Carter