1997 Volkswagen Golf GTI Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
For 1997 Volkswagen continued adding minor upgrades to its two-door GTI models, which were based on the popular VW Golf but came with...
For 1997 Volkswagen continued adding minor upgrades to its two-door GTI models, which were based on the popular VW Golf but came with additional features and, in the case of the GTI VR6, a more powerful engine.
The base GTI came with the same 115-horsepower, 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine that was dropped into all the Golf trim packages, but for 1996 the engine ran smoother and quieter, thanks to a modified cylinder head. The GTI VR6 upped the ante with a 2.8-liter double-overhead-cam V6 engine that pumped out 172 horsepower. Both engines were linked to a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic was available as on option on the base GTI model.
The GTI VR6 received a tighter suspension for '96, and its front end was lowered by 10 millimeters for a sportier ride. New alloy wheels were also part of the VR6's upgrades.
A limited-edition GTI VR6 Driver's Edition was introduced later in the model year. It came with a number of special features, including special floor mats, door sills, and cloth or black leather upholstery, seven-spoke alloy wheels, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift knob, and handbrake with red stitching, as well as a tighter suspension and anti-sway bars.
The shift knob was a limited-edition two-tone leather-and-silver "golfball" style, reminiscent of those on the early Rabbit. The gauges were also silver faced, and the knob on the e-brake release was also matching silver. Of the 1,000 total Driver's Editions produced, most were "Ginster Yellow," with only 200 cars available in "Jazz Blue" paint.
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, antilock 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.
For the most part, drivers reported that their cars were dependable and fun to drive, and most drivers reported very few major problems. However, some drivers did report problems with the car's electrical system.
What owners say
"Owners generally enjoy the 1997 Volkswagen Golf GTI for its fun driving experience and decent performance. Many drivers appreciate its handling and agility, mentioning it as a joy to drive. However, the high cost of parts and maintenance tends to be a common frustration, with some noting that repairs can quickly become expensive."
It may look like a dumpy little hatchback, but it's got a 2.8 litre v-6, and weighs 2700 lbs. Nice leather interior, roomy for a 2-door, great gas milage (20 in town, 35 on the highway).
March 30, 2008I loved this car! Performance: I had this 2 litre tuned with pretty much everything I could afford. Chip, air-filter, camshaft, was enough to make it a respectable performer. Also it had an Eibach lowered suspension with 16" wheels and low-profile tires. Build quality: Great. It's a VW. Appearance: I loved the boxey European look. Hatchbacks are the most practical cars in my opinion. Cost of ownership: Not too bad. Insurance was higher because it says "GTI". Premium gas, but it performed excellently with it. Fun Factor: 5/5. I loved cruising down river valley road at night with the moon-roof open. It was heaven on wheels!
July 11, 2008Fun, fast, and torquey. Schrick Cams, GIAC chip, VR6.
January 10, 2008What owners say
It may look like a dumpy little hatchback, but it's got a 2.8 litre v-6, and weighs 2700 lbs. Nice leather interior, roomy for a 2-door, great gas milage (20 in town, 35 on the highway).
March 30, 2008I loved this car! Performance: I had this 2 litre tuned with pretty much everything I could afford. Chip, air-filter, camshaft, was enough to make it a respectable performer. Also it had an Eibach lowered suspension with 16" wheels and low-profile tires. Build quality: Great. It's a VW. Appearance: I loved the boxey European look. Hatchbacks are the most practical cars in my opinion. Cost of ownership: Not too bad. Insurance was higher because it says "GTI". Premium gas, but it performed excellently with it. Fun Factor: 5/5. I loved cruising down river valley road at night with the moon-roof open. It was heaven on wheels!
July 11, 2008Fun, fast, and torquey. Schrick Cams, GIAC chip, VR6.
January 10, 2008great handling you can feel the road and grips well in the corners mines done 140000 miles ands is still going well with no problems overall a great car
May 26, 2008Very fun, timeless design, bulletproof engine, unbeatable sound, go-cart-like handling. Needs very few "mild" engine mods to keep up with much faster-rated cars...or go turbo if you like to embarrass vettes and chase down new M3's. Simply great little toy car.
August 27, 201010 years running and still giving pleasure
January 24, 2008great car, very soft suspenion as standard needs uprating but after you have done that the handleing tighten's up and it a real drivers car
January 16, 2008I love it although its A MK3 5 Door Golf GTi 2l 16v not a VR6
June 12, 2008This was my first car. I really enjoyed it...apparently it doesn't enjoying being impaled by telephone poles 16 ft in the air. Who would've guessed?
March 20, 2008It is my baby, I love her dearly. She will wipe the snot from the very ground upon which you walk. Give me a long and winding road, loud music, and a warm sunny clear day. I love Remelina. V-Dub for life.
July 13, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP $20,210 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $20,570 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $16,820 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
