Used 1997 Volkswagen GTI Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 1997 GTI, so we've included reviews for other years of the GTI since its last redesign.
Buy It Unless You Are Broke
GTIUNV, 03/08/2007
1997 Volkswagen GTI VR6 2dr Hatchback
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
All I am going to say is 170,000 miles of FUN! That is right, 170,000 miles and all it took was regular maintenance. If you buy it you will need to put money in it (don't buy it if you are broke). Maintenance is pricey, but you can do most of it yourself. BTW, this is one of four VWs I have had.
Fun to drive
slimsalmon, 03/11/2008
1997 Volkswagen GTI 2dr Hatchback
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned this car from 19K miles to 240K. Overall this car is extremely fun to drive and handles exceptionally. The drive train is solid and at 240K miles my car still doesn't show any signs of weakness or burn any oil. I still haven't needed to replace the clutch or do any transmission work either. The dash and controls are built well and aren't cheap and plasticy like many cars that came out during that time. However, there has been a TON of stuff that needs constant attention outside the main drive train which seemed like it was built so cheaply it was designed to fail.
1996 GTI 5 speed - awesome car
jennP, 09/22/2009
1996 Volkswagen GTI 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my 1996 GTI (5 speed)last year (2008)with approx 95k miles on it. I love this car! She won't quit! Had one problem with her where she died on the road: turns out with the ac on full blast (soon after starting) in high heat of South FL, blew the coil circuit. VWs are notorious for electrical problems as they age, but they are usual suspects as with any car: coil/coil circuit (ie...wiring), ignition switch, spark plugs (do not use platinum 4 prongs-they don't last). If you do a little research to pinpoint the usual problems - you'll be able to get her in prime shape inexpensively (VW Depot in FL are the best).
always in the shop
kaceyb23, 07/01/2002
1996 Volkswagen GTI VR6 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
There is no car, for the price, that is so much fun to drive in my opinion. Unfortunately every time I start it up I'm scared that something is going to fall off. Over $7000 in repairs in less than 2 years. No, I'm not kidding. Fun but costly. BUY THE WARRANTY!!!!
mpg commuter
modern commuter, 10/13/2008
1996 Volkswagen GTI 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I needed a good commuter for my new job which requires I commute 100 miles per day round trip. I decided on a 96 GTI 2.0 because MPG is as important as being fun to drive. It turns out I am averaging 30-32 MPG. I was lucky to find an unmodified, well maintained w/ an almost new interior for it's 13 year/123,000 age. I love this little car, I find myself not wanting to drive my 06' SS/SC. The 2.0 engine mated to the 5 speed is wonderful, the car is as tight (structurally) as a new car. I cruise at 70-80 mph without any drama. I more pleased than I expected I would be and parts are cheap. I high recommend 2.0 GTI's for anyone looking good MPGs, excellent hauling space and a fun daily driver!
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