Just the other day I caught the Wheeler Dealer episode where they restored a Mk.1 GTi. For me it was a trip down memory lane; my GTi also suffered the electronic woes and shift linkage problems that the one on the show did. Unfortunately for me, I was not nearly as talented a mechanic as Mr. China is – resulting ultimately in the end of my ownership of the now-legendary car. Of course, when I owned it they were still throw-away cars – while people liked seeing them, no one really considered them particularly collectable in the 1990s. However, since then clean and unmolested original GTis have steadily increased in value to the point where we’ve documented a few examples north of $15,000. Those were exceptions to the rule, though – we’ve also seen nice original condition cars struggle to make even half that amount. Today’s example seems to lie in the middle; clean and mostly original, lower mile and good condition with a $9,500 asking price:
Tag: Hot hatch
As Paul said, “It’s back!” The awesome BBS and Callaway modded GTi is back just in time to fulfill your Christmas wishes! I know I’d certainly love to have it under my tree. Bidding reached into the $20,000 range with the reserve still on last time around, failing to sell. It’s already hit $10,000 this time with 4 days to go. What will it take to buy this incredible Mk.2?
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a turbocharged night!
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1985 Volkswagen GTi Callaway Turbo on eBay
10 CommentsWhen Paul sent me the link to this GTi, I knew instantly that I recognized it. We write a lot of cars up here, but some stand out – in this case, this car followed up two record setting GTis that I wrote up, but unlike those this one seemed stuck in no-man’s land. It wasn’t restored but also wasn’t quite as nice as the other two low mileage examples. Despite the lower asking price, no one jumped on the potential of this car at $6,500. Nearly exactly one year later, the car is back. It hasn’t remained static, gaining a touch over 6,000 miles – but strangely, the price has increased to $7,000. Given that the other similar condition Diamond Silver 1984 struggled to make $5,500, it’s hard to see why this one will hammer for more.
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1983 Volkswagen GTi on eBay
The below post originally appeared on our site January 4, 2014:
1 CommentHow many times can you own an automotive legend on a budget? Normally on Friday, I try to look at some screaming deals in the German automotive world; but in terms of all around reputation, the original GTi is on par with cars like the Porsche 911. It was hugely influential not only on the market but on enthusiast’s expectations of what their everyday car could deliver. Practical, fun to drive, quick and relatively inexpensive, the Golf GTi is heading into its 7th iteration with the same basic formula as the original. Original, honest A1 GTis are now hard to come by, and this survivor is one of the better original examples we’ve seen with complete records and maintenance. Bidding is on its way up, but compared to some other German legends this car will remain a serious bargain.
The below post originally appeared on our site October 16, 2014:
You may remember this great looking, original and rare color combination GTi from last week. Although the car sold, the buyer failed to come through, so you get a second chance to pick up this awesome timepiece of history. Opportunities to own what many consider legendary cars don’t come along often, and usually aren’t very cheap – but these original GTis if left unmolested and in good shape like this one are near certain to appreciate over the coming years and offer you the chance to drive one of the best regarded cars ever made without breaking the bank. This car has some unbelievable records including a handwritten log from the first day of ownership by the original owner, and outside of the replaced windshield and gas cap, and a few mechanical parts is 100% OEM. This is a truly impressive survivor, and the seller has extensive shots that document the condition both above and below the car.
You can contact the seller if you’re interested directly at jimmyzslc@yahoo.com.
Click Here For Additional GTI Photos