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4.4 Overall rating

(112 reviews)

Customers say

The Volkswagen Cabriolet has won many owners over with its fun and unique driving experience, especially when the top is down. Across different model years, drivers have enjoyed its sporty handling and good fuel economy, making it ideal for short drives and leisurely weekends. However, despite the love for its classic styling and charm, some owners have pointed out reliability issues, particularly needing regular maintenance and challenges with performance. Additionally, concerns over build quality and noise levels have been noted, especially during longer trips. Overall, the Cabriolet stands out as a charming convertible, but prospective buyers should be aware of some maintenance considerations.

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Anonymous

4.0

Reviewed a 1988 Volkswagen Cabriolet on Jul 16, 2009

I enjoy my Cabriolet, I have had an 1988 Volkswagen Scirocco 16V and now my Cabrio and despite the fact that I can pretty much any car I would want, I will never get rid of my volkswagen. Everyone should have the chance to drive one.

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Ron D

4.0

Reviewed a 1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet on Feb 20, 2009

The car actually isn't an 85, it's an 82. Little discrepency i felt i needed to add in there. I just bought this car recently from my Grandfather, who did a complete restoration on the body, and repainted the car in a very bright shade of Red (not sure of the actual paint code, but it was very close to the original color). This car has your standard A2 watercooled engine; the 1.8 liter that powers many VW's from the 80's. Coupled up to to a 5-speed manual means great control, and surprisingly for a completely stock car, it gets up and goes; there's no power steering, so low speed manuvering is a bit hard, but once you're moving the car feels light and very nippy. It's not quick in a straight line, but it absolutely loves the twisty stuff. In a way that makes sense, considering it's based on the Rabbit, which itself is a Golf, and everyone knows what the Golf GTI was (and still is) like to drive. Build quality is solid, except for normal convertible caveats; the top leaks right around the windshield, so inclement weather is a problem sadly. But it doesn't really matter since this car only gets driven on sunny days with the top down, which is the point of a convertible anyway. Outside it looks like your typical 80's car; boxy, small headlights, and no real 'flash' to speak of. Interior is pretty much the same as every other Mk1 Rabbit/Golf, i.e. slightly spartan. The car does great on gas with that little 1.8, but it's still got enough power to help merging onto the highway. Fuel injection means no worrying about stalling out at traffic lights, or hesitation from a stop. As for fun factor, how can you not have a smile with the top down, wind in your hair, sunglasses on and tunage blasting. That's what convertibles do to you

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Hector I

1.0

Reviewed a 1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet on Nov 29, 2011

The car is being restored by me. Slowly i have invested almost two years into this vehicle. Everything is new on the vehicle but stock except the engine ECU. It has an MS1 installed. The suspension is stock modified for better grip and height control. It is very fast compared to the stock fuel system, and is very fun to drive.

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Bob P

5.0

Reviewed a 1990 Volkswagen Base on Jun 26, 2008

Once you replace the nasty original carb with the Webber twin choke (something you have to do if you want to keep it) its just a brilliant driving experience. built to last and 30 years after th Mk1 went on sale it still looks good. its never going to be an everyday car but for sunny summer sundays its perfect

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