Possibly buying a MK 3

[peteopc]

Im looking at numerous MK3`s. I know about the precat problems but how much of a problem is the oil usage issues? as a percentage, how many cars does it concern and at what mileage? thanks

[foxy-stoat]

If you do some research then you should find out that pre'03 cars have the rubbish piston design which leads to the oval bores.

Get one with full history and check it through. Ask the right questions about how much oil it uses, Mr T says that these engines can use up to 1 ltr every 1000 miles.

Any pre '03 car with more than 40k on the clock with out without the pre cats removed will be a gamble I think, unless its been looked after well or had the pistons replaced..

How much you got to spend, and welcome to the club

[HT]

Hi Pete - I had the same dilemma when buying mine. The 2003 model I bought, is approaching 60k, and has zero oil usage.

Maybe it would be worth buying a 2003 onwards vehicle, and enjoy the model changes, from the early model, that typically render the pre-cat's as less of an issue.

[ilogik]

Just get it checked, ask the usual questions, hope for the best and wear your lucky pants.

[peteopc]

Just bought a facelift mk3 with full history, 54000 on the clock with 17 inch wheels as well as the originals for £3600. happy with that just need a second key!

[tonigmr2]

That is a good buy.

Show us some pics.

[excalibur1814]

Just bought a facelift mk3 with full history, 54000 on the clock with 17 inch wheels as well as the originals for £3600. happy with that just need a second key!

How does it 'feel' to drive on 17" wheels/tyes? The Mk2 Turbo was a right pain in the 'smack, bang, crash' department

[peteopc]

I thought the few that I test drove on the standard wheels were alot more uncomfortable and seemed to crash over bumps, this one is alot smoother. I alsp think that the front end is more "attached" and less vague when giving it some.

[excalibur1814]

Bit odd... SUre that the tyres had the 'required' inflation?

Then again the Mk2 suspension was a bit stiffer and lowered a little?

... so in the end, 17s aren't that bad then?

[peteopc]

Tyre pressures are fine, I think the face lift version is slightly higher so perhaps has softer suspension?

[Ekona]

Suspension is identical across all years.