1996 Volkswagen Golf GTI Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Volkswagen made a few minor tweaks to its GTI lineup for 1996, though no major changes were implemented for the model year. The two-door...
Volkswagen made a few minor tweaks to its GTI lineup for 1996, though no major changes were implemented for the model year. The two-door GTI came in two versions -- a base GTI with a 115-horsepower, 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, and a more aggressive, and better equipped GTI VR6 trim package, which came with a 2.8-liter double-overhead-cam V6 that pumped out 172 horsepower. Both versions were linked to a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic was available as on option on the base GTI model.
New features for 1996 included a central locking system, new cloth seats, a glovebox, and an audio alarm to notify drivers if the headlights were left on. Other standard equipment for the GTI base model included bucket sport seats, power windows, power brakes, power steering, power heated mirrors, a power sunroof, air conditioning, dual airbags, anti-lock brakes, alloy wheels, traction control, an anti-theft alarm system, and an AM/FM/cassette stereo system. The GTI VR6 added cruise control, a tilt steering column, and optional leather seats.
The GTI's reliability, handling, performance, and cargo space received high marks from drivers. As far as the car's mechanical components are concerned, some drivers have reported no problems, while others noted that as the cars grew older and gained mileage, they've begun to deteriorate, requiring expensive repairs.
What owners say
"The 1996 Volkswagen Golf GTI is loved for its solid build quality, good handling, and fun driving experience. Owners appreciate its quick acceleration and impressive braking power, as well as its fuel economy, often achieving over 40 mpg on runs. However, some drivers mention issues with rust and electrical gremlins, and a few feel the performance can be a bit lackluster without modifications. Overall, it’s seen as a reliable and enjoyable car but with some quirks."
I am absolutely in love with my GTI, no other words can explain how much I love driving it and it just looks like a $1,000,000 to me.
March 31, 2008Small car, big engine! Best car that I have ever owned.
February 20, 2008Quite quick, not fast but lots of low down torque. Always get over 40mpg on runs and even had 46 on one tankfull! Build quality excellent, 85k no squeaks, rattles, everything works and it drives like new! Looking quite old now but still quite smart. Servicing by myself, good fuel economy, even insurance costs are ok. Great fun on twisty roads, much better than i ever thought it would be! Much more composed than my other mk2 golof gti!
July 11, 2008What owners say
I am absolutely in love with my GTI, no other words can explain how much I love driving it and it just looks like a $1,000,000 to me.
March 31, 2008Small car, big engine! Best car that I have ever owned.
February 20, 2008Quite quick, not fast but lots of low down torque. Always get over 40mpg on runs and even had 46 on one tankfull! Build quality excellent, 85k no squeaks, rattles, everything works and it drives like new! Looking quite old now but still quite smart. Servicing by myself, good fuel economy, even insurance costs are ok. Great fun on twisty roads, much better than i ever thought it would be! Much more composed than my other mk2 golof gti!
July 11, 2008bulletproof motor, owned for half a year now and couldnt be any happier
December 4, 2007Performance -great acceleration , braking great also , bad handling Build Quality - tough need some paint and repair Appearance - both interior and exterior styling are great Cost of Ownership - short gas mileage , maintenance is low Fun Factor - fun to drive powerfully not good in rush time
November 24, 2011Quick little motor, especially with the k and n air filter, handles the bends really well on the twisty stuff. I use the car mainly for work and the fuel consumption for me is 33-35 mpg which is really good.
February 24, 2009Nice balance of power and handling. chiped, full custom exhaust, lowered with FK suspension, stage 1 clutch, front and rear strut brace, MK4 hood/grille/headlights with WRX hood scoop, nice sound system, on BBS rims. I also have a big skid plate that covers the hole engine bay (those pot holes wont take away my oil pan)
November 22, 2007perfect handling through sport suspension; nice acceleration and impressiv braking power; unfortunately rust on tailgate, nice sound, color of the car is brilliant black and It has a sunroof and electric windows, also it has an alarm system. fuel consumption of 8 liters per 100 kilometers
September 24, 2010Performance - Fast: quick response, aggressive acceleration and strong power band. Build - Its a VW so you're looking at some work naturally. But most of the work is easy and fun. Appearance - not the most beautiful car in the world but works better than a truck or standard sedan (Hatchbacks are the way to do it.) Cost of Ownership - Installed right axle boot, and new heater core but the parts were cheap, its labor you're looking at for these cars. Fun Factor - VWs are a blast and you'll never forget how much fun you had with one.
December 10, 2009I love everything about my car, It comes from the best Autohouse in the world and is by far the best looking generation. Yes I drive a 1996 Volkswagen Golf MK3 GTi 2.0i 8v. Black in colour, 5 Doors and in Mint condition. Original Alloy wheels. The only dislike I have is for the small bump next to the rear number plate, can hardly see it but I know its there and it hurts.
September 11, 2008
