Georges GTi

[GeorgeMK1]

Hi friends,

So after so many years of dreams and hopes, I've finally found my dream car. I've recently purchased a 1983 GTi Campaign. When I was younger my older brother had an awesome MK1 which i loved with all my heart and kickstarted my passion for the mk1, (some of you may know I've owned 4-5 haha) and have always wanted a GTi, but either they were too expensive, or hard to find - or both. So I've finally been able to afford one now being grown up somewhat (lol thats a lie), and found one with a perfect platform for what I wanted. This example has been hit front and rear, and needs fixing. The reason I've decided to do this, is the simple fact, if in 2-3-4 years I wish to play around with different engines/wheels/etc the purist can't eat me alive for ruining a perfectly fine campaign hahaha, but don't worry I wont ruin it, returning it to as close to original is my goal. I'm happy to be taking this project on, as I hate to see any golfs go to waste, let alone a proper GTi.

The front has been somewhat repaired by the previous owner, so I will leave it at this stage, although I believe they welded the front apron in skewed and will need re-aligning to get it perfect. Enough chat, here's some pics.

















I am planning on breaking this build/project up into smaller tasks, as over the years I've learned it's how I work best. So first step will be to get the engine running, the GTi is missing quite a few bits and will require, drive shafts, full exhuast, fuel pump, sway bars, rocker cover, and a few other goodies.

After I get the engine started my main mission before XMAS time is to get the rear end repaired. I have spoken to a restorer in Dandenong by the name of PJ's Restorations, and they have great reviews and seam pretty switched on. I will be looking for the best possible workshop to carry these repairs out, as I wish them to be as perfect as possible, no short cuts taken. Along with the GTi, I have been supplied a floor and chassis cut out section of the same year model, which will aid in the chassis repair.

Once the rear is sorted, I will prepare it for rwc, and club permit. I do not intend to paint any panels, or paint match. I want to enjoy the car for a few months-year and make the most of it while i find all the missing bits and collect all the required bits to complete her.

In terms of engine, there are a few options. Leave the standard motor, which I'm considering for the first time in my entire life of owning cars lol. If not, options are, 20vt stage 2 k04 - turbo the 1.8 kjet lump in it currently - 20v head onto current block with ITB's - or my all time favourite motor swap of all time, K20A, but i think too many people will be butt hurt by this one so it wont be likely to happen, plus getting that registered .... wow haha.

After engine is complete (talking a few years now) I intend on stripping the entire car down, and doing a complete ground up restoration with every nut and bolt, etc. Time will tell, but if I break up my stages, I will enjoy every bit of the car, and the steps rather than doing it all in one go. I'm genuinely keen for this project, and happy to share it with you fellow vww'ers.

George