MK5 Golf GTI
General => New Member Intro's => Topic started by: STU-HILL on June 29, 2012, 05:16:28 am
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Hi guys! Fantastic forum btw. Been lurking for days, mainly in the FOR SALE thread :happy2:
Looked at lots of buying guides etc and googled just about everything I can think of but I'm still unclear on few things and was hoping one of you GTI geeks (I want to be one, so no insult intended!!) could help me on few things.
Basically, I have a top budget of £7,000 to spend and I've narrowed my choice down to a Red, Manual, 3 door.
From what I've seen, looks like I can get a 2005/2006(at a push) under 70k for that kind of money. Sound right?
Does anyone know whether there were many changes made from an early 05 plate to say a later 06? I've read somewhere that VW tried cutting costs a bit on the later models. Is that true and would that potentially mean an 05 would be better than waiting or paying slightly more for an 06? Also read though that early 05's may have still had teething problems that 04's had? Anyone know if true and what they are?
Second question... The 17" Vs 18" Monzas! Seems to be about 50-50 for sale at moment and obviously love the look of the 18s but is that enough to justify sacraficing comfort and performance? I know ppl say its personal preference but any experiences ppl had with either be great to hear and would sway my deciscion.
That's pretty much it. Other than the old cloth vs leather (think ive decided on cloth), I think i'm pretty clued up for now! Just need to find a good one!
Seen quite a few on autotrader, low mileage 05's for 7,495 or low mileage 06's for 7,995. Are they good prices or do you think I could look to cut them down a few hundred each?
As you can all probably tell by now. This is first time buying and I am going from a 1.2litre bog standard Clio to a GTI!! :laugh:
Thanks for any help and hopefully be posting pictures of my new beast very soon!!!
p.s Are these cars still selling fast or can I afford to play waiting games with dealers to lower their prices? Risky if a good one pops up but if they arent flying off the forecourts then could save myself a bundle ?? :happy2:
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You have plenty of choice mate thats for sure, I think there were some changes between early cars from 06 onwards, bee sting arieal, colour of the air con controls etc
18's look better but dont let that put you off a car with 17s. The 17s ride better and dont corrode like the 18s cheaper tyres etc etc
I got my 06 done 66k for sub £6k but had to go over to NI, but it needs cambelt etc so by the time Ive sorted bits and bobs on it may end up costing £6800.
I chose cloth seats as I think they age better than the leathers unless precious owner has taken care of the seats.
Xenons was a must for me as I think it makes the front end look a lot better apart from better visability at night.
If you intend to mod it then see if you can pick one up with mods as in most cases it will work out cheaper in the long run.
Good luck.
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The wheels would be dead last on my list of preferences, purely because they're such an easy thing to change further down the line.
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What sort of teething probs are the early 05 models meant to have? Mines a 05/54 & from what I know has had no other probs later 05/06s have had
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What sort of teething probs are the early 05 models meant to have? Mines a 05/54 & from what I know has had no other probs later 05/06s have had
....Mine's a 05-plate 06-Build (VW revise factory line build specs every July) and I've had her from new and now 101,000 miles. The only trouble I had was the DSG Mechatronics Module which was replaced under warranty. If the car you are looking at has had such an issue it will have been sorted a long time ago.
If you intend to remap you'll need to change from the original DV. Volkswagens typically are good well-built and trouble-free German cars.
As with all secondhand cars you should carefully check the history and be satisfied the car has been loved, well maintained and sympathetically driven.
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Red, Manual, 3 door.
Nice choice, the red looks fantastic. So much so that I stopped at a 2nd hand dealer today to have a look at an 08 red 3 door I spotted as I went past. The red really catches your eye more than any other colour.
I am going from a 1.2litre bog standard Clio to a GTI!!
You'll have a large cheesey grin when you accelerate :laugh:
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What sort of teething probs are the early 05 models meant to have? Mines a 05/54 & from what I know has had no other probs later 05/06s have had
I just read a buying guide from clubgti.com and it said aim for a mid 05 if possible as 04's had some small issues and later 05s had improved component quality?? Didn't specify so that's why I thought I would come on here and ask but if it's not a common knowledge thing then I guess it's not an issue.
Only reason I'm being fussy is that it seems my budget is spot on for an 05 but I could also push harder/wait for an 06 if was worth it for this "improved component quality" etc
Good to hear yours has been trouble free!! Be my first VW so hoping it lives up to the well built rep :happy2:
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....Mine's a 05-plate 06-Build (VW revise factory line build specs every July) and I've had her from new and now 101,000 miles. The only trouble I had was the DSG Mechatronics Module which was replaced under warranty. If the car you are looking at has had such an issue it will have been sorted a long time ago.
Oh that's interesting. So if one of these 05's I am looking at has been registered post July then it is likely to have had some "improved" specs perhaps.
I have noticed small details such as an aluminium tray in the front compared to a black (guessing) plastic one on different 05's so perhaps that was one of the changes made in that July period.
Don't spose anyone knows or has link to exact changes made over 2005/2006 models.
Hopefully looking at one on Tuesday! :happy2:
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Oh that's interesting. So if one of these 05's I am looking at has been registered post July then it is likely to have had some "improved" specs perhaps.
I have noticed small details such as an aluminium tray in the front compared to a black (guessing) plastic one on different 05's so perhaps that was one of the changes made in that July period.
Don't spose anyone knows or has link to exact changes made over 2005/2006 models.
....Yes, if built post July. Registered date isn't always reliable - For example, GTI's which may have been shipped to Saudi and stored there before imported and registered in the UK. The improved specs are somewhat random and not usually major - A bit like a computer operating system's dot update (Mac).
If you Google you might find a list posted by someone somewhere either on a forum or Wikipedia. Note that American specs are very different.
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Guys! Advice needed asap....
Found nice red, 3door one today 67k, 56 plate, great condition apart from two small scratches on door which have been touched up etc. 6months warranty, no tax tho £7,500......
Does that sound a fair price??
Ringing him back today with answer. Any feedback much appreciated.. :happy2:
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Doesn't sound too bad. See if you cam knock him down a bit? Mines a 06, 5 door, 45 k on clock and 11 months tax for just over. That price. Don't know if that helps. Took a lot of haggling!
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It was at 7,995 so already got 500 off but might try for bit more off :wink:. It's pretty basic but condition is very good and only 1 owner etc
Appreciate your feedback and looks likely I am set to join the Tornado gang on here!! Can't wait :drool:
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Keep going :). Has it had cambelt done?
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I'm not up to speed on prices because I ain't looking to replace mine. But, £7.5k sounds okay when compared to others. One owner, if good service history, is a positive.
Again, if properly serviced and looked after, 67k miles isn't a worry - It's a German built Volkswagen!
If you don't mind spending 50 squid and are seriously interested, the AA do a service where one of their specialists does an in-depth report on the individual car for you.
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I had a look into that. £140 the aa wanted! Make friends with a mechanic. Thats what I did :happy2:
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Yes cambelt done and the dealer only deals in prestige cars (bmws, mercs etc) and is very nice setup compared to the other garage I visited today.
the only issue and it's because im being picky, are these small two scratches on passenger door. They have been touched in but not that well.
What kinda price we talking for a door respray or even a better scratch repair job?? Anyone know?
The car is 6 years old though so I'm not expecting perfection and it does tick all the other boxes.
The prices of these Golfs are all over the place I've noticed. Some asking way too much! Will ring back in hour or so and maybe offer £7,300 then :happy2:
Finding it hard not to get excited already!! Cheers guys :drinking:
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Sounds good mate. Especially with the warranty.
Erm my moms got an eos, had a scratch taken out of hers for £100. Just depends really. Google it and find local people in your area :).
Im excited for you! Where bouts you from?
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I made the jump from the polo.....you'll love your car. I was very picky as well. You'll grin the first time you floor her. :driver:
If the car ticks all the boxes and comes out fine. Take the car! Only after getting some money of though. If not ask the dealer to repair it or you'll walk away. I doubt a dealer would let you walk for the sake of a retouch your being reasonable. i definitely noticed prices being all over the place. I saw some dogs as well.
Anyways keep us posted and show us pics!
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I had a look into that. £140 the aa wanted! Make friends with a mechanic. Thats what I did :happy2:
....Wow! 140 squid! :surprised: - Perhaps that included life membership. The cost will have certainly have risen since I was last aware of it a few years ago.
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If the rest of the car is good, you really shouldn't be put off by a couple of scratches! It's inevitable on any car that's been enjoyed.
You might want to check the wheel arches for any signs of rust - It's a known issue and there's threads about it on here.
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Derbyshire so travelled hour and half to check out these two cars.
First one was bit cheaper but 05 plate and had water damage under the boot door handle where water collects so put me well off.
No such problem with 2nd one I saw.
Appreciate your feedback. You joined day after me I think and you are already the "go-to" girl for advice it seems :notworthy:
Thanks Redrobin too! I'm going to go for it!!! Hopefully next update will be pictures!! :jumpmove:
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Nar robin, was £130 I think If I was a member. Hense why I befriended a mechanic ;).
lol I just spent ages researching before I bought mine, I don't really know that much, just blag it :happy2:
Ooo get the pics up straight away, exciting times! Even if u get him down by another £100, thats nearly half your tax :jumpmove:
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ha that's exactly what I was thinking!! Eases the pain of 250 pound tax disc :surprised:
I've been doing my research too. Will be glad when have one as I'm all researched out tbh!! :fighting2:
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I know. My last car was £115, so bit of q shocker. I know how you feel, kinda takes over you researching. I was gonna buy the BMW 1 series coupe (n47 engine), if you get spare time google it. Horrific!
But yer, do it do it! You won't regret it :)
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I've got a three door and I'm pretty sure you need to check the door seals v carefully due to water ingress. Also the rear lights need to be checked as water can collect in there apparently. I didn't see such when I was looking but its something worth knowing.
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Welcome along!!
Tornado Red 3dr, best choice IMHO. Robin and Rachael have mordor's (more than likely for their future children!!) :signLOL:
Go for it, all signs are its a good motor, any link to the dealer it's up with?
Don't worry about any scratches, you may well be able to get them delt with by a Pro' detailer (many of whom reside on here) and if not a good body shop will do it in no time.
:happy2:
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Cheers for the info guys.
I asked for some alone time with the car and did
all the checks, under wheel arches, rubber seals etc and all seemed in good order.
Got the option to extend warranty for a further year too for 199quid to take it to 18months which I might do as well for peace of mind.
.....Bought! He wasn't budging anymore with price, but £550 off asking price will do me :evilgrin:
Appreciate all your help guys. Pick her up in a week... Can't wait for that hour and half journey home :driver:
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Also the rear lights need to be checked as water can collect in there apparently. I didn't see such when I was looking but its something worth knowing.
....I haven't heard of actual water collecting there but plenty of cases of condensation which dissipates quite quickly. So I doubt it's a problem.
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Hey guys,
Due to put my deposit down tomorrow BUT I have noticed that the car doesnt have Air con etc which I dont mind but I havent seen any other GOlf for sale without this air con??
It has a Sunroof etc but is it just really rare not to have aircon or do other people have it without too? :confused:
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Omg a sunroof?! Sexy. You don't need air con. I'll happily swap with you :happy2:
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haha I'm not a big fan of aircon anyway other than cleaning the windscreen quicker but this no air con thing doesnt mean it's possibly an import does it? As I really cant find another one without it :confused:
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Hey guys,
Due to put my deposit down tomorrow BUT I have noticed that the car doesnt have Air con etc which I dont mind but I havent seen any other GOlf for sale without this air con??
It has a Sunroof etc but is it just really rare not to have aircon or do other people have it without too? :confused:
Are you sure it doesn't have econ/air con/climate control (3 dials at the bottom of the centre console)! Pretty sure all mk5 GTI's have this, I will no doubt be told otherwise very soon?
http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,48217.0.html
Not mine, but you get the idea.......
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1049.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fs399%2Fmcaborn%2F13aa435a.jpg&hash=6329ce3a1c8c292dd3aea73a97c6b0c6eb05c328)
Hope that helps bud.
:happy2:
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I think, And don't quote me, I heard someone say they didnt fit it as standard.probably gonna b proved wrong any minute....
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Mine has a sunroof (and I don't like aircon anyway). If you get some ClimAir wind deflectors you'll get fresh air ventilation and demisting and won't need aircon.
I assumed that all GTI's had aircon but perhaps it was a factory option (I must have ticked it without thinking).
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No it is different. Has twisty dials.
Have a look. Not sure how to download pic but look at pic on advert and you can see
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/4010623.htm
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This wa :confused:s on mk6 info
Improvements in equipment level on the domestic market Golfs include, for the first time in a Golf, the
inclusion of air conditioning as standard. [2]
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^^^ going to say no then, I think! But not sure, maybe!! :signLOL:
My last GTI had the ones I pictured. BTW, that's a cracking looking car matey! Looks minty fresh on the inside as well, good buy that!! And a sunroof, very envious!!!
:smiley:
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Or Irish import perhaps? Apparently theres quite a few which didnt have air con.
I wouldn't worry too much, damn sexy car and sunroof. I agree with mc71 :)
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Thanks guys!! She was a big step up from the first one I saw that's for sure! Well looked after by a Golf enthusiast apparently and only traded in to update to MK6 or so the dealer said anyway.
Appreciate the feedback, was beginning to think it might be the only GTI out there with no a/c
Will double check in morning with dealer and let you guys know if is an import or not or I'm just being paranoid!
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It's good being paranoid. You don't wanna buy it and it be some dodgy import from iraq :happy2:
Let us know :)
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Climate Control was standard on all EU GTI's
However as previously stated Irish cars didn't come with CC as standard, it may still have air con tho via the weirdly named air con button :laugh:
My bet is its from Ireland....check it has an alarm as believe it or not and I quote from a different forum "Picked up my Gti about three weeks ago - ordered in April and it is the 2006 spec with bee sting aerial etc. Had to order alarm as an extra which is a joke on a €38,000 car. But did Manage a discount of approximately €1500. Have a sun roof as standard but no air con. Could have lost the sun roof and got air con for €700 but preferred the sun roof."
The guy was from Ireland!!
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Oh ok. That kinda makes more sense.
Is it being a Irish import necessary a negative thing when coming to sell or not really an issue?
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Is it being a Irish import necessary a negative thing when coming to sell or not really an issue?
....Shouldn't be an issue. It's like Rachael says, it's not from Iraq (although it's the GTI's imported via Saudi which are the ones to avoid - But same principle).
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It all depends really - Do you feel like your losing out on not having the UK Spec with CC and possibly alarm (if yours is missing an alarm walk away)?
If so then the person you eventually sell to may feel the same way, also not having the CC could narrow the buyer when you eventually sell.
Me personally, I wanted CC and would never buy a car without an alarm (bear in mind this will affect your insurance if it is missing).
You have a huge choice of cars available, don't rush into buying if you have a nagging doubt......it will eat you up inside if you buy something you later regret!!
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^^^^
You can always get an aftermarket alarm fitted. Don't let the tail wag the dog!
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^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Good thinking :congrats: its far too late for logic from my old brain!
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I'd personally leave that one. The GTI is top of the range and should have all the bits least of all CC!
Also £7995 seems very expensive IMO!
I gave a lot less for my 07 with 40k on it :-)
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Offer of 7,450 was accepted with 6month warranty
Has Sunroof and A/C not a big deal to me personally
Car is in fantastic shape but just find it strange that only one out there for sale with no A/C
Just thought I would ask about on here. Seems likely could be Irish but emailed dealer and will see what he says in morning.
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Hey found another one without A/C!!! It's not alone
http://www2.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201209453371222/sort/default/usedcars/price-from/6000/fuel-type/petrol/quantity-of-doors/3/transmission/manual/maximum-mileage/up_to_60000_miles/model/golf/make/volkswagen/radius/1501/postcode/de738bx/keywords/gti/page/5?logcode=p
Pricey!
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I think I've solved the mystery guys....
Dealer said the Owner had this GTI from Motorpoint... Just read up about how motorpoint source their cars from mainland europe and IRELAND...
Motorpoint say all cars "conform" to UK standards but I'm guessing that means doesn't always match UK specifications i.e Air Con
hmm...
Tricky one now, as the car is in great shape and fair price I think. Would this kind of thing be enough to put any of you guys off though?
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That makes sense. To be honest, all depends on when you plan on selling it. It's a typical British thing where we only buy something that's plain and simple because people don't want to research it. I'd be prepared to have to let it go for a little less than what's it worth when you sell it IMO.
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IIRC, Motorpoint are down on the south coast and fellow forumite Oli (who I know quite well) has used them a lot. In fact I introduced Oli to this forum after I bought my Monza 18's off a GTI he had imported via Motorpoint(?).
Send Oli a PM perhaps?
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Thinking about this a bit more, we are each different individuals and therefore have different attitudes but, for my part, I would say that if you make a check list which is too long and aren't prepared to make a little compromise, it could be a long time before you get to enjoy a GTI.
Don't get hung up on residuals - Live to enjoy your driving.
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When are you going to collect it? Would you lose your deposit?
I'd suggest possibly waiting to see other people's responses/opinions of buying an import?
Or just bite the bullet and go for it, enjoy, and worry about selling it when it comes to it. You might not need to worry tho, perhaps someone you know will buy it after seeing what a gorgeous car it is :happy2:
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Agreed price etc and phoning me in morning to sort deposit, so not technically done until deposit is down.
I think Redrobin has it spot on. People keep saying lots of choice out there but I've seen some crazy prices and some poor examples too so I would kick myself if I leave this one and struggle to find another 56 plate in my budget in good condition.
I won't keep this longterm (3years maximum i think) so selling it on for good price is important but I think when it comes down to it people are just looking for a well looked after car with FSH etc and as long as it's not from Iraq, I'm not sure how much it would weigh on someones decision as much. Not all buyers will be quite as fussy I'm guessing and if we are talking about it just not having air con which seems the only difference (but has sunroof) then maybe not such a big deal.
Think the word "import" scares lots off but if we are talking Ireland, then hardly a million miles away.
Rachael, how long did it take to find yours out of interest?
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(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2FDetailing%2FStickers%2FFollowYourHeart.jpg&hash=035864cf4fa80b05de4e9df538d57a8e65368f4f)
^ And your gut feeling :happy2:
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Pains me to say it but I think he's right aswell :smiley:
Yer think you've talked yourself into mate :happy2:. True, aslong as you explain it to buyers that it's a well known company in England that shipped it over you should b fine. Think I exaggerated a bit with Iraq lol.
Took me about a week, I was quite fortunate I think. Plus, being female helped a tad when it came to haggling lol. Im super jealous of your sunroof though!
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^^^^
Rach, I don't think you exaggerated about Iraq. Not Iraq but a number of Mk5 GTI's (and other cars) have been shipped to Saudi and ended up for months in desert car parks (I've seen pics) and then some imported to the UK by unscrupulous dealers.
P.S.- I've got a sunroof too! :P
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Huh! No way, get me with my car knowledge!
And I know, I dislike you also :signLOL:
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Think you guys are right.
I was after a good condition red, 3 door in my budget and I have one in my grasp.
No a/c and from Ireland doesn't outweigh the positives the car has in my opinion.
Things are never straight forward ey?? Guess it wouldn't make the end result as sweet if everything came easy
Well, I will sleep on it but goddammm life is for living, so what am I waiting for!!
Rachael... Redrobin, you guys have been awesome!! Make a good couple even....... :innocent:
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^^^^
You only "dislike" me? - And I thought you hated me, Rach.
[Ooops, I better not take yet another thread off-topic]
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Loads of fantastic opinions for you to take on board mate.
The car looks stunning and if it's in your price range and your happy go for it.
The car is in a unique position of having a sunroof......something it seems some ladies find 'sexy'...'Omg a sunroof?! Sexy. You don't need air con. I'll happily swap with you ' was the quote lol
Its a difficult one i appreciate, however in 3 years time I dare say there are now plenty of GT models with no CC so in 3 years time it wont look out of place.
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The car is in a unique position of having a sunroof......something it seems some ladies find 'sexy'...'Omg a sunroof?! Sexy. You don't need air con. I'll happily swap with you ' was the quote lol
....Not just ladies: Mk5_GTian posted a thread asking about fitting an aftermarket one and then. very recently swopped his GTI for one with a sunroof. An interesting fact that came out of that discussion is that our GTI sunroofs are manufactured by the most highly thought of company in that business - Webasto.
Here's the thread: http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,48763.0.html
Having a sunroof doesn't mean you have to have it fully open the whole time. It's very useful just to tip open the back for air circulation. But I better stop talking about sunroofs because Rachael might get over excited :evilgrin:
And if you do buy this car with a sunroof, I strongly recommend ClimAir wind deflectors:
http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,6157.0.html
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdaz.co%2Fmedia%2FRedRobin_05%2FMods%2FClimAir_1940.jpg&hash=bbcb647158e4b4c476df23b015f13faf66df067e)
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Thanks Apollo and welcome!!
It's good advice.
Just had voice msg from dealer and he says he's been in touch with VW and it's not classed as an Import on the V5 form etc but did come from motorpoint who sourced the car direct from VW etc hence the sunroof but no a/c
So in that case unless buyers in 3 years time dig around as much as I do, then I think like you said, it will just be another GTI but with Sunroof option instead of A/C :happy2:
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^^^^ would highly recommend the ClimAir Wind Deflectors even without a sunroof. Was not a big fan when I put them on but after feeling and hearing the difference that they make I became a convert. Obviously stop rain pouring in the car as well.
One of my previous cars was an Irish import, never for a second put me off, I paid the going rate and when I sold it I received the going rate.
Some of the cars I've owned have had A/C, some not. I for one don't consider it a priority in this country but ETTO. As Robin mentioned, everyone will have their own "spec wish list" and that's all that should matter. I for one had a pretty specific list and after 6 months searching and travelling got the one I wanted allbeit without Xenons but that's what retro fitting is for.
As i said previously its a lovely car, go for it. Let your heart rule your head and your live will be better for it. Always tell this to my grown up daughters, so when it all gets FUBAR, they usually blame me. :confused:
Pic of the deflectors on my 3dr if it helps
(https://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1049.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fs399%2Fmcaborn%2Fwatch002-1.jpg&hash=6fbad17b7764c77eba35a9e8efb0cb84c41816d4)
:happy2:
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Deflectors look great!
I was looking at Type R's before decided on GTI and always like the look of wind deflectors on them so will definitely be after some on Golf now. They cheap and easy to fit?
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Deflectors from Climair. About £40 IIRC. Very easy to fit, 2 minutes, stand back, drink tea and enjoy!
http://www.climairuk.com/product.php?productid=1532&cat=0&page=1
Review and fitting guide from forum member, VC
http://www.mk5golfgti.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,6157.0.html
:happy2: