golf mk5 1.9tdi or 1.6fsi
Author
Discussion

kilarney

Original Poster:

493 posts

254 months

Saturday 28th November 2009
quotequote all
Im looking to buy a MK5 golf 1.9tdi or for a bit less cash the 1.6 petrol probably 2005 to 2007 vintage. The cost over 3yrs seems about the same when considering consumption vs puchase price. I have owned a seat leon fr pd 150 in the past and whilst it went like a train I find my current mazda 1.5 petrol better refinement thats winning me over although its pretty slow.
Which is the better choice all round choice. Anyone share there experience ?
Oh and reliabity is No 1 on my list

va1o

16,118 posts

238 months

Saturday 28th November 2009
quotequote all
Got experience with both.

Starting with performance, the 1.6 FSI is faster 0-60 and runs onto a higher top speed than the TDI. It benefits from a 6-speed gearbox (TDI just has a 5-speed) and is smooth and refined. Downsides for this engine are it needs 98-RON otherwise performance and economy takes a hit.

The 1.9 TDI is quite different, its slower to 60 and lower top speed, but much faster in the mid-range because of the extra torque. The engine is however very noisy, and it takes a while to warm up. A bit slow of the mark with some turbo lag but I guess the mid-range performance makes up for this. Economy is good once properly run in.

My advice would be to test drive both and see which you prefer. Petrol is generally the best option if your doing less than 10,000 miles per annum. Match and Sport are the best trims. Get a 2007 or later car so your not at risk of the £1500 fix ESP problem MK5s suffer from.

Also, the 1.4 TSI Golfs are well worth a look if your budget can stretch. Very decent performance and economy for the engine size, won lots of awards. Far better option than the older 1.6 and 1.9 engines.

Edited by va1o on Saturday 28th November 20:19

kilarney

Original Poster:

493 posts

254 months

Saturday 28th November 2009
quotequote all
Thanks for the information.Im surprised it needs 98ron in a cooking engine. Whats the ESP issue and how much does it cost to fix ?

va1o

16,118 posts

238 months

Saturday 28th November 2009
quotequote all
The ESP issue is quite common and occurs when the ABS Control Unit fails. This is indicated by an ESP light coming up on the dash, and the system is de-activated. Costs £1500 inc labour and parts to fix. Some say VW are currently meeting the cost under goodwill, but not for all cars. IIRC the part was changed in mid-2007, so cars from before this date are at risk.

Google 'Golf mk5 esp light' or 'Touran esp light' for more info, quite a lot of forum threads arround the web on this subject. According to a post on here the other day, its starting to make the cars worth less in the trade.

Vee

3,109 posts

265 months

Sunday 29th November 2009
quotequote all
1.6 fsi isn't the fastest but is comfortable enough for a town/ a road commute.
I'm about to put my mother in laws one up for sale. Ex demo, fsh, auto, satnav.
Honestly though, I'd go for the 2.0tdi ahead of either the 1.9 or 1.6