Great Cars Under 1000 Dollars
Still on the road today and ever changing since 1976 is the Volkswagen Golf GTI. This car was first introduced to the states as the rabbit and the GTI tag later became a trim level available on the VW Golf. Now in its 5th version the VW GTI has come to be known as the original hot hatch. Although today the GTI is less of a spartan and lightweight car to be tossed about and much more of a refined fully loaded vehicle it still has roots deep in the original. 1000 bucks if you know where to look. For this profile I will be focusing on the older models that can be found for cheap (and in my opinion are the best looking) Which is mainly going to be versions MKI and MKII but who knows? You may come across an MKIII that is in need of some work for cheap. What makes these cars All-Stars is a fairly simple formula.
A small light weight design with a performance minded suspension that is simple but effective. Combine this with a simple but fun and effective 4 cylinder and a front wheel drive layout and you have a car that anybody can push to its limits. Most older GTI's are going to be in 2.0 8v form but the much more desirable versions have 16v engines with a lot more breathing capability. Like most tuner favorites the GTI has a unique ability to take on a large or small amount of mods and still provide lots of fun. If your budget permits a popular swap in the lighter and older models can be to use modern hardware such as 1.8t and VR6 engines. Check out almost any shape or form of motor sport and your likely to see an old GTI in the pack. A quick reminder for those in the hunt for an old GTI they come in various levels from bone stock to heavily modified and depending on your purposes and budget this can greatly effect your decision. 1000 dollars in great running shape, but unfortunately the numbers are becoming smaller by the day so if you want one start looking and don't wait!
Exterior enhancements include a chrome radiator grille and chrome window trim. The SEL trim adds a six-way power driver seat with manual lumbar support, sport-comfort driver and front passenger seats, and a soft-touch dash. A new trim, SEL with Navigation, adds the acclaimed Fender Premium Audio System and the RNS-315 touchscreen navigation system. Similar to the 2.5-liter gasoline trims, all TDI Clean Diesel models receive interior and exterior enhancements. All models now include power-recline driver and front passenger seats in addition to a leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift knob, and handbrake lever. A new iridium trim enhances the dash and door panels. The exterior now features a chrome radiator grille along with chrome window trim. The top-of-the-line TDI Premium with Navigation trim includes a six-way power driver seat and a new 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheel. The performance-driven Jetta GLI model now features Launch Control. All Jetta GLI models equipped with the DSG automatic transmission include a Launch Control program that can be engaged by the driver when the vehicle is at a stop, allowing for a perfect launch with controlled wheelspin. Technology updates to the sporty GLI Autobahn with Navigation trim include a rearview camera and Bi-Xenon headlights with LED DRLs.
Volkswagen鈥檚 first hybrid compact, the Jetta Hybrid, launches in the late fall. It will offer a manufacturer-estimated combined 45 mpg. Further detail on trims and pricing will be announced at launch. For 2013, the Jetta SportWagen incorporates only minor changes over the 2012 models. The S trim now features a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel and multi-function display. For 2013, the Routan carries over unchanged. For 2013, the Tiguan incorporates only minor changes over the 2012 models. All Tiguan trim lines get an electronic parking brake, hill-hold control, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, and a leather shift knob. SE trim receives a partial power passenger seat. SEL trim has a power passenger seat and a rearview camera. For 2013, the Touareg incorporates only minor changes over the 2012 models. 18-inch 鈥淜arakum鈥?wheels are available on VR6 and TDI Sport trims. Executive and Hybrid trims get Vavona wood interior trim. Hybrid models receive LED taillights and rear license-plate light.
