What to look for when buying a Cupra?

[Cuprageous]

Hi All,

I'm after some sage advice as to what I need to pay special attention to when looking to buy an Ibiza Cupra.

I know that there aren't exactly hordes of them in Oz, however since I started looking a couple of weeks ago I have found 2 for sale in QLD, 2 in VIC and 2 in SA. And they are just the "obvious" ones so I reckon there's bound to be a couple more where they haven't bothered or gotten around to advertising online.

In addition I know of 2 GTIs in WA, 1 in NSW and 1 in VIC and I may be after one of these also, for my daughter.

So I'd be grateful for any advice as to what I should look out for that are specific quirks/issues/problems etc with the Cupra or GTi. An idea on fair prices would be of use too - the Cupras seem to be asking around $5.5k to $6k with the GTi anywhere from $3.5k to around $5k.

Also, due to their small numbers are body parts hard to find or are there various contacts via the forum who can help with sourcing parts if required?

Cheers,
Chris

[Cupra]

Hi Chris

I've had my cupra since new in 99, no major problems with mine (touch wood). Some minor issues that i've had have been, failed dipstick (vw couldn't/wouldn't help but Matt from Camden gti has most things Seat), perished crankcase breather (Matt again), leaking fuel lines in the engine bay (fixed by me).

I've had no rust issues & the paint is holding up ok considering it's parked in the open at work everyday & it's RED!

Electrics all work, all the switch gear etc works & is fine.

The car has been great fun, it's my daily drive & it still puts a smile on my face every time I jump in it.

There are a bunch of guys on the forum that know lots about them & are happy to help.

Matt from Camden gti is golfloon on here.


hope this helps,

Phil

[V666]

As Cupra says theres not any major issues with them, Body parts can be pain to track down for the Cupra and expensive as most of the parts aren't interchangable with the other models, window regulators commonly fail but not a major issue just check they go up and down with no sticking or funny noises

On the whole a decent car and with the 16v a bit rare too....

[Golf Loon]

I have most parts for them. 16v is 99 model, so looks nicer, 8v is a better drive IMO.
Go and drive both and see which you prefer.
There are more 8vs than 16s, but they dont have as much gear on them.
William is interested in selling the VR6 Ibiza if you wanna go a bit silly
Get one and enjoy it

[seatnewbie]

Hi guys,

A 95 Ibiza GTI have the same 2.0 8v engine as a 95 VW Golf GL. Which car handles and perform better ?

Cheers

[Valver.]

Hi guys,

A 95 Ibiza GTI have the same 2.0 8v engine as a 95 VW Golf GL. Which car handles and perform better ?

Cheers

Handsdown the Ibiza. The Mk3 in stock form is a lumbering pig of a car! The Ibiza has a shorter wheel base and firmer suspension, as well as a stiffer 2-door body shell. Build quality, however, is another story...

[crazyazz]

The heavy mechanical clutch could be an issue for your daughter. I still think mine is bad compared to my GTR, but my mechanic says it not to bad compared to some polos he works on. Things I really like most are the ABF engine (you have to work it though) the seats, they are nice and firm, the red backlit gauges and switch gear look pretty cool also. Handles and stops ok, will get some coilovers as its not as tight as I would like. Hate the clutch , and the long throw and relatively loose feel of the gearbox is not my favorite. Also the gear ratios are kinda too tall. Had a water leak, where some idiot who replaced the clutch cable didnt seat the rubber grommet. Parts shouldn't be a problem, between Matt and UK ebay / forums you will be sorted

[seatnewbie]

Handsdown the Ibiza. The Mk3 in stock form is a lumbering pig of a car! The Ibiza has a shorter wheel base and firmer suspension, as well as a stiffer 2-door body shell. Build quality, however, is another story...

Ok so build quality is not as good. Is it fairly reliable comparing it with jap cars such as mazda astina, honda civics from similar year. I am looking for a car for my brother and I thought it might be good to get him something a little different and less common but I am just afraid of spending endless amount of money to maintain it.

I know it depends on the conditions of the car. For example, a friend have a 96 honda civic with 200,000 km and it is still going strong. How many kms can the 2.0 8v engine do before a rebuild is required ?

[Cuprageous]

Looks like I'm no longer after a Cupra or GTi for my daughter as she doesn't really like them - it seems I actually wanted one for myself because I'm attracted to cars that are a bit different!!

We're now looking for a Peugeot 206 because she thinks they are cute...........

[crazyazz]

Get one for yourself for a runabout anyway