MK1 project planning

[Gutoneto]

Hi,

I'm starting to gather the courage to take on a Mk1 project. I've always loved them but never had the means or time to pursue it. Now that I have a 4-year-old, I’d love to create some memories with him by starting this project and getting him involved. Of course, he won’t be doing anything dangerous, but I want him to remember us wrenching in the garage together and introduce him to the car world.


I’ve been looking for at least a rolling shell, preferably a 3-door. Depending on the condition of the shell, the plan is to do a ratmod/restomod with a circa-era engine. Nothing injected or overly fancy, the idea is to use a 1.8L 8v engine with a 5-speed gearbox from a Mk2 GTI, ITBs, and a 4-into-1 exhaust manifold. The idea of the 1.8l is that I had cars with this engine (EA827) before and found to be very easy and familiar to maintain.


If I manage to get a Mk1, how hard is it to fit the GTI Mk2 8v drivetrain into it?

Also, how do I register a shell in NSW?

Thanks!

Guto.

[orceorn]

Hi Guto,
Sounds like an awesome project, and it’s great that you’re getting your kid involved—it’ll create some unforgettable memories!
For ITBs, ensure you have a good standalone ECU to manage them effectively since you're skipping injection. Exhaust fitment might also require custom fabrication depending on the manifold design. If you make even the slightest error, like crashing or losing control of your vehicle, escape road is over!

[sports racer]

Parts from MK2 and MK3 drop straight in. Make sure the shell you buy has a VIN number stamped on the front right strut tower and a plate on the radiator support, near the bonnet release. Old rego papers help but the dept should have records for the VIN number.

[Gutoneto]

Hi Guto,
Sounds like an awesome project, and it’s great that you’re getting your kid involved—it’ll create some unforgettable memories!
For ITBs, ensure you have a good standalone ECU to manage them effectively since you're skipping injection. Exhaust fitment might also require custom fabrication depending on the manifold design. If you make even the slightest error, like crashing or losing control of your vehicle, escape road is over!

Hey,

The idea is to be more analog as possible.

[Gutoneto]

Parts from MK2 and MK3 drop straight in. Make sure the shell you buy has a VIN number stamped on the front right strut tower and a plate on the radiator support, near the bonnet release. Old rego papers help but the dept should have records for the VIN number.

Hi,

That's great news! I was afraid that would be too much work involved to to get the engine in. I'll keep attention to the VIN locations and see if still exits any old papers as well.

Thank you!

Guto.