
Volkswagen Golf IV 1997-2004 - 2002
My Trusty Ride: Golf 4, 1997
summarizeEditor's Summary
I'll be honest, buying my first car was a long time coming. I finally found a Golf 4 from 1997 with a 1.6L engine, and it's been a total game changer. The handling is great, and it's super responsive. Plus, maintenance costs are super low - I can find parts everywhere, and they're dirt cheap. It's not perfect, but it's mine, and I love it.

settingsSpecifications
live_helpFeatured FAQ
What's the maintenance cost like for a Golf 4 from 1997?
Maintenance costs are super low - I can find parts everywhere, and they're dirt cheap. I've been changing the oil regularly and keeping an eye on the consumables, and it's been a breeze.
How's the fuel efficiency?
The fuel efficiency is decent, especially considering the age of the car. I've been getting around 25-30 mpg, which is pretty good for a car this old.
Can you tell me more about the interior?
The interior is pretty spacious, and the seats are comfortable. It's not the most luxurious, but it's perfect for a first car.
What's the deal with the headlights?
The standard headlights are a bit dim, especially at night. I wish the previous owner had installed lower fog lights, but it's not a deal-breaker.
How's the car's performance?
The 1.6L engine is surprisingly peppy, and the handling is great. It's super responsive, and it's been a total game changer.
Can you tell me more about the previous owner?
Let's just say the previous owner was a real piece of work. He sold it to me in a pretty rough state, but I was able to get it running smoothly with some TLC.
What's the best way to keep the car running?
Regular oil changes and keeping an eye on the consumables are key. It's not rocket science, but it does require some effort.
Is the car worth the money?
Absolutely - it's a great value for money. I spent around $350-$400 to get it running smoothly, and now it's my trusty little companion.
How often do you need to replace parts?
I've been replacing parts as needed, and it's been pretty easy to find what I need. I'd say I replace parts every few thousand miles or so.
Can you tell me more about the car's reliability?
The car's been running well so far, but I've had to replace some parts here and there. It's not the most reliable car, but it's been okay for a first car.
check_circlePros
- •The 1.6L engine is surprisingly peppy, and the handling is great.
- •Maintenance costs are super low - I can find parts everywhere, and they're dirt cheap.
- •The interior is pretty spacious, and the seats are comfortable.
- •The fuel efficiency is decent, especially considering the age of the car.
- •I can finally say I'm a car owner, and it feels amazing!
- •The car's not too bad on gas, which is a plus.
- •It's easy to work on, which is a big plus for a DIY guy like me.
- •The car's got character, and I love the way it looks.
- •It's a great first car, and I'd recommend it to anyone.
- •The price was right, and I got a good deal.
cancelCons
- •The standard headlights are a bit dim, especially at night.
- •The previous owner left me with a lot of work to do - I had to replace almost all the consumables.
- •The car could use some new tires, but that's an easy fix.
- •The radio is pretty basic, but I don't really use it anyway.
- •The car's not the most stylish, but it's growing on me.
- •It's not the most comfortable ride, but it's not terrible either.
- •The car's got some quirks, but I'm learning to live with them.
- •It's not the fastest car on the road, but it gets the job done.
- •The car's got some rust spots, but they're not too bad.
- •It's not the most reliable car, but it's been running well so far.



