205 GTI - poss purchase but questions ?

[windsorrob]

Looking at a potential 1.9 GTI that needs some work - mainly cosmetic. However, there are two elements that concern me. I have joined 205gtidrivers forum but are waiting for approval before I can post there.

Two issues are :

Above each of the read windows, there is a split between the side seem and roof and it looks like filler. I understand this can be caused by accident or seized suspension. Anyone had experience of this. If you fill it, does it keep reopening ?

Car in question has sat on someones drive for 3 years and looks very sorry, but we managed to start it first time with a spare battery and turning it to get the oil circed.

Oil was low which we topped up, however, the oil pressure gauge and oil temp gauge on the dash never moved. I wonder if there's just prob with the gauges as I can't see both being that bad. Also - engine sounded ok (no gaurantee I know)

Any thoughts on these issues ?

[windsorrob]

Thanks for the great info. Might be a basic question, but what / where exactly is the slam panel. I've a lot to learn - to this point having only driven cars, not fixed ormessed with them !!

This will be the first project.

[windsorrob]

Thanks. Is there an easy way to check the rear beam ?

The thing that appeals on this car is the project aspect, plus it's 100% original and standard. I'd be looking to pay no more than £200. Know what you mean though about running cars being cheap anyway and I don't want to get into major issues with this car.

[windsorrob]

Thanks. Have run it to temp and the heater was fine along with all other elecs.

I have a feeling they may have given it the odd run to stop to much mechanical deteriation.

The thing I like, is that while it looks really sorry for itself, I think (probably regret saying this !) that the structure and mechanics are pretty good. It's a 1992 1.9, Miami blue, no sunroof model. All paperwork, inc service history and 72k miles, that I've no reason to disbeleive. Friend of mine has known the car for many years.