Golf 1.8T GTi or VR6 4Motion

[Phil-681ns]

What should I consider when weighing up the 1.8T GTi with the VR6 4Motion. Both appear to be good-value exciting cars with good performance, old-school driver engagement and great sound. Whilst the VR6 4Motion is faster, and potentially handles better, I assume the more complicated 4Motion setup might carry the greater risk of expensive maintenance bills given these cars will have at least 100k miles on the clock.

Thoughts?

[ZX10R NIN]

Get the 1.8T it'll be the easier car to maintain but personally I'd go for the V6 4motion.

[nmd87]

I thought the Mk4s were criticised for lack of driver involvement, especially the V6 which had a heavier front end than the four cylinder models.

[aka_kerrly]

it's funny how cars get reputations that arent always deserved.

when the mk4 golf 20vt and audi a3 20vt were group tested against the 306gti, Astra Gsi, alfa 147, citreon xsara vts, the 20vt cars came out top... yes the 306 gti may have a tad more lift off oversteer fun an tiny bit heavier steering but there reallocate isnt the huge gulf people make out.

having owned a xsara vts and driven many mk4 based cars, id rather have a Seat Leon Cupra poss an Cupra R if your budget stretches