Mk3 GTI - future classic?

[va1o]

So I've toyed in the past with the idea of buying a Mk1/ Mk2 GTI as a hobby car but they've got too expensive and hard to find for an un-abused example. I've now got the opportunity to buy one of the last Mk3 GTIs from a family friend and wondering whether it would be a good buy...

The car in question is 1998 R-reg and I *think* it's the 16v but can't remember for 100% sure. It's had one female owner since new and has always been serviced by VAG specialists. 100% standard with no modifications of any kind.

I guess my question is how much is it worth now if I was to buy, and is this likely to go up in the future if I look after it?

[va1o]

AJB88 said:

I wud say no to it being a future classic...

MK1,MK2 & MK5 are generally the "desired" ones.

Hmm I loved my Mk5 GTI but it didn't feel quite special enough to keep and preserve. I see what you're getting at though.

[va1o]

So turns out it is an 8v but it has the BBS Solitude alloys. 1998 R with 112k miles, and just the one owner from brand new. Fresh MOT also.

£500 - what do we think?

[va1o]

KarlMac said:

va1o said:

So turns out it is an 8v but it has the BBS Solitude alloys. 1998 R with 112k miles, and just the one owner from brand new. Fresh MOT also.

£500 - what do we think?

Its worth more than that in parts. As long as its not riddled with rot, do it.

Hmm maybe, not sure yet. I really thought it was a 16v so the 8v is a little disappointing as its slower than my boring Mk6 TDI! However I've got a soft touch for 1-owner well looked after cars, and I still remember getting lifts in this one as a child when it was new!

Having now done a bit of research it turns out these run out 1998 Mk3 GTI are South African built. Not sure if that's a good thing or bad thing!