Re: 1984 Coupe GT?

[David Erickson <davide@Rational.COM>]

Dan,

I just went through the process of taking an 84 coupe GT and restoring
its functionality.  Mine had 110k miles, so it probably needed a lot
of work that this one does not.  On the other hand, it never had to
live through East Coast winters.

I did all the work myself, but the parts cost ran somewhere close to
$2k.  This included Konis all around, control arm bushings, clutch,
clutch cable, crankshaft oil seal, transmission mount, two alloy wheels 
(to replace two that were bent), tires, rear muffler and hangers,
full set of radiator hoses, radiator, full set of belts (incl. timing belt),
and some misc. gaskets, filters, hoses, fluids, etc.

I really enjoy driving it - I also have a lot more confidence in its
reliability (I put 140 mi. per day on it) than I would from a slightly 
newer car that cost the $4k or so that I have invested, but which I did not
completely go through.  For me, it is the right approach, but as they
say, your mileage may vary.

-Dave


> 
> My sister is looking for a car (she's 16) and I've been looking
> for an 86/87 Jetta GL or GLI for her.  But I ran across a
> 1984 Coupe (GT?) in the pennysaver and it's on my road, so
> we're going to check it out tonight.
> 
> Anything to look for other than the obvious and usual VW/Audi
> problems?  What sort of engine did the 84 have?  And what year
> did they go to a 5cyl in that car?
> 
> I imagine it's a fairly reliable car, and parts should be cheaper
> than for my '88 90 (I think we're going to keep it anyway).
> They are asking $2000, it has 77k and is anthracite grey with
> (supposedly) blue interior.
> 
> It's either this or she gets my old 82 Jetta with 150k, now
> being sold back to me by my father-in-law :).
> 
> | Dan |
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