1998 Golf convertible?

sali_mali

Hello, I hope somebody can give me some advice.

I'm a 21 year old student, about to start medicine at uni, so I need a reliable car, which isn't going to break down until I'm earning some money in 4 years! However, this car is also my 21st birthday present and I want something a bit different and special

What are your thoughts on a golf convertible? I love the look of it, it's just what I'm after, but what is their reputation? Reliable? Cheap to run? I'm a bit worried about the soft top - are they prone to leaking?

Any advice would be appreciated! Suggestions for other suitable cars are also welcome, budget of £4,000 absolute max, but closer to £3,000 would be much better! :beer:

Pew_Pew_Pew_Lasers!

Get an MX-5 instead. Cheaper, better, more fun, holds value better, more reliable.

kitchpoo

Prettty good reliability, common parts and hold their value. 1.8 Avantgarde is a good option. Wrong time of year to be looking for a bargain, though a rainy bank holiday weekend may knock a few pounds if you are lucky.

anewman

Soft tops are as prone to being slashed by the local ch@v after a stereo, as they are leaking I imagine.

Just to check, you have got a couple of insurance quotes and budgeted for that too over the 4 year period?

aurora_borealis_2

I like the MX5 too.

But they're so old at that price!

sali_mali

Thanks everyone, yes I am a bit worried about the whole chav-slashing-softtop malarky, but it'll be kept in a secure car park most of the time. I've had a look at insurance, not too bad, surprisingly

Pew_Pew_Pew_Lasers!

How old are you then? Does that mean you need scrapping?

aurora_borealis_2

Golf

TangledMemories_2

Can I just point out 1 VITAL point as a young driver?

21 and going for high insurance group car?! ARE YOU MAD!? I get absolutely battered for having a 1.6 Mitsubishi Lancer and being a 23 year old female driving the damned thing. Good job I love my car!

Seriously:
Just asked OH who is a mechanic and MOT tester and has rebuilt Golfs in the past:
"If the vehicle has been well maitained, it's possible it will be reliable. If it's not been looked after, it's highly likely to have mechanical and electrical issues."

sali_mali

Thanks TangledMemories, one I've been looking at has only had one previous owner. Middle aged lady = good, teenage boy = bad! I'll take a car buff with me for help

Pew_Pew_Pew_Lasers!

Middle aged lady = worn out clutch, lots of short journies, inability to park, scuffed wheels, etc.

Well if we're stereotyping....