How many 10 year old hot hatches can offer a 0-60 of less than 10 seconds, be a practical family car with bomb proof build quality and image and on a gentle run return 40mpg? The answer is only one, the truly iconic and classic Golf GTi.

Most of the MKIII GTi reviews I have read seem to mention a lack of performance, but this only tells part of the story. The reputation the golf has for being a classy car with a touch of sporty potential and genuine all round practicality is thoroughly deserved. No other car can match this combination. A clean 2nd hand Golf Gti of any age will still turn heads, hold its value and sell easily. Compare that to the rust prone and comparatively flimsy offerings from Ford and Vauxhall of the same period, and it is soon clear there is no comparison.

I have owned over a period of 15 years or so 4x MKII 1.8 8v GTi's and 2x MKIII 2.0 8v GTi's (all purchased 2nd hand) so you could say I am a fan (!) and in my view the MKIII Golf GTi is great package and much underrated as good all rounder. The qualities of the car which I have listed in the good points section outweigh any shortfall in performance. If I were to have to choose between a MKII or the MKIII for a long drive through poor weather to get me home the MKIII would be the vehicle of choice. Comfort and safety are much improved with airbags and abs, and the dashboard and heater are a major leap forward. The MKII heater controls in particular now looks very dated, more of a product of the 70's instead of the 80's90's. The 2.0 8v engines in the MKIII which are essentially based on the MKII lump are turbine smooth and produce the 115 bhp from very low down in the rev range, which allows for quick progress if you want it and a relaxed drive if you don't. Flexibility is the word here.

Every Golf GTi I have owned has been taken over the 100,000 mile barrier before being replaced and I have never had a major problem with any of them. Change the oil every 5K using a genuine VAG Oil filter and VAG semi synthetic Oil (The genuine items purchased from the VW main dealer are both cheaper than the Halfords Pattern parts) and your Golf's engine should give trouble free service.

So would I recommend one? I think the answer is an obvious yes! But there are things to watch for. Clutches can go at 80K, front engine mounts at 100K, seat bolsters wear at 100K +. Apart from these things, there is not much to report other than the satisfaction of owning a legendary, classy, sporty and practical car, which has become a classic in its own lifetime for only £2000 or less. Enjoy.