Keep up to date
Keep up to date with all things Trade Classics, along with new cars.
FOR SALE

1990 Volkswagen Golf GTi 8v

£8,950

Superb Condition Throughout | ~5 Years Owned | 25 Service Stamps

  • Mileage~106,521 on clock
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine1.8L
  • LocationNottingham

£8,950

1990 Volkswagen Golf GTi 8v

Premium Classified Sale

Introduction

Paul Wright
Professional Consigner

Makes every corner feel like a mini victory lap, with just enough attitude to match its punchy performance!

The 1990 Volkswagen Golf GTI 8V was a hot hatch icon of its era, offering a perfect balance of performance and practicality. Powered by a 1.8-litre 8-valve inline-four engine producing around 112 horsepower, it delivered lively performance with its lightweight chassis and nimble handling. The Mk2 GTI featured a close-ratio 5-speed manual gearbox, sport-tuned suspension, and disc brakes all around, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads. With its classic boxy design, distinctive red trim accents, and a driver-focused interior, the 1990 GTI 8V remains a beloved choice among enthusiasts for its engaging driving experience and timeless appeal.

Coming from ~5 years ownership, this lovely example has been refreshed by the vendor over the past 12 months, restoring the hot hatch to its former glory, and is now ready to be enjoyed.

The car also comes with a fresh MOT valid until 03.03.2026.

This listing was written from information supplied by Paul after meeting Hardain the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

Exterior

Finished in the iconic colour of Tornado Red, the Mk2 is certainly looking at its best.

Wheels and Tyres

Fitted with 15” BBS-style alloy wheels, these came with the car and have been given a fresh coat of bright silver, so they are in excellent condition.

The Toyo Proxes tyres are all in like-new condition and have plenty of tread remaining.

Please see the image gallery for more detailed images.

Bodywork

The bodywork on the Golf GTI is in excellent condition following the restoration. It has received two new wings on the front and new rear wheel arches. Looking around the car, there are no dings or dents, and the panel gaps are nice and equal.

We've provided high-resolution images and videos detailing our observations, so please take the time to review all media files for a comprehensive view of the car’s condition.

Paint

Finished in the legendary Tornado Red (LY30), the paintwork is in excellent condition, having only been applied last year. Since then, the car hasn’t been used an enormous amount, so the paint still looks very fresh.

Images are taken from various angles to present the car as you would see it in person. Please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos to form your own opinion on the paint’s condition.

Glass and Trim

All of the windows are in good condition with no noticeable scratches. Some of the seals and the front window scrapers have been replaced, so they are in excellent order.

The sunroof mechanism has been repaired, and a new seal has been fitted, so this is now working properly. All of the arch trims are in excellent condition with no scuffs or damage.

The front and rear lights are in good condition and free from damage.

Interior

Original sports seats in excellent condition give a proper 90s feel inside the GTI.

Seats and Carpets

Finished with Sports Check cloth in grey/red (HZ), the seats are in excellent condition. There is a very small amount of wear on the passenger bolster. The rear seats are in excellent condition, as are the door cards and quarter panels.

Unfortunately, the headlining has suffered like most Mk2s of this age. However, on the flip side, reproduction headlinings are now available. The carpets throughout are in good condition, with just the normal amount of wear you would expect for the age.

Inside the boot is clean and tidy, with the space-saver spare wheel in place, along with the factory sticker on the rear panel.

Dashboard

The dashboard is in good condition with no splits or cracks. The instruments are working correctly, and the odometer shows a reading of ~106,521 miles at the time of our visit.

There is a small amount of bleed on the clock display, but it still operates.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The original steering wheel is in good condition with minimal signs of age.

Never has there been a more fitting gear knob to match the name of a car. The Golf ball gear knob is in good condition.

Please see the interior gallery for more images.

Mechanics

Back in its day, the Digifant fuel injection was a massive step forward for the Mk2 Golf GTI.

Engine and Gearbox

With a turn of the key, the 8-valve GTI fires up without hesitation, comes to a smooth idle, and runs with no issues reported. There have been new engine and gearbox mountings fitted.

The five-speed gearbox has a smooth, precise change, and there are no untoward noises coming from the transmission.

Suspension and Brakes

At some point, the suspension has been replaced with coilover units. The height has been set to a sensible level, and the ride is relatively firm without being harsh. The Golf has also received new track control arms, track rod ends, and some bushes.

During the work, power steering has been fitted, making manoeuvring the Golf easier.

With disc brakes on each corner as standard, the GTI comes to a stop quickly, in a straight line, and with no juddering through the pedal.

The Drive

Driving the Golf GTI 8-valve feels like a nod to the nostalgic past, with its nimble handling and revvy 1.8-litre engine. The mechanical simplicity of the 8-valve setup gives it a charming rawness, delivering a responsive yet grounded ride.

It’s not the fastest car by today’s standards, but it's lively throttle response and tight steering make it a joy to navigate through twisty roads, giving you the feeling that you’re part of the machine rather than just behind the wheel, making it clear why this hot hatch was, and still is, so special.

Electrics and Other

All of the switchgear is in good condition with little sign of age, and there is a period Panasonic radio cassette head unit fitted.

History and Paperwork

A full collection of invoices shows what’s been replaced during the restoration.

The original owner’s manuals are present, along with the service book, which shows 25 service stamps, it comes to market after ~5 years with Hardain and has a fresh MOT valid until 03.03.2026.

There are plenty of invoices gathered over the past couple of years, showing the extent of the restoration and the parts used to get it into the condition you see here.

We’ve conducted our usual seller checks, including photo ID, V5, and have also actioned a history check on the vehicle. This is a professional check by HPI that highlights whether the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or has any outstanding finance. Please note: This does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our view of the car based on information from the seller above. As you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in high-resolution detail – this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. Please sit back, have a cuppa, and take your time to review everything in this listing to assess the vehicle's condition.

Viewings are also welcomed for all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time – we just need to speak to you first and receive valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you’re unsure about, no matter how small, please ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can’t be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car – just like in a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
04.03.2025 MOT 106,519
20.02.2024 MOT 106,454
17.01.2023 MOT 106,449
03.01.2022 MOT 106,441
14.05.2020 MOT 106,245
16.04.2020 Service 106,153
25.04.2019 Service & MOT 103,946
15.01.2015 MOT 103,106
01.10.2014 Service 102,847
07.01.2014 MOT 102,002
17.10.2013 Service 101,689
21.12.2012 MOT 101,192
28.08.2012 Service 100,881
15.12.2011 MOT 100,501
08.09.2011 Service 100,228
29.12.2010 MOT 99,205
11.10.2010 Service 98,489
18.12.2009 MOT 95,984
12.08.2009 Service 94,794
24.12.2008 MOT 92,535
03.08.2008 Service 91,342
28.12.2007 MOT 89,242
25.05.2007 Service 86,906
29.12.2006 MOT 85,453
18.05.2006 Service 82,860
29.12.2005 MOT 81,078
03.06.2005 Service 78,479
28.07.2004 Service 74,713
06.08.2003 Service 70,054
16.08.2002 Service 65,204
12.08.2001 Service 61,265
05.07.2000 Service 55,118
20.09.1999 Service 52,277
Timing Belt 47,308
05.05.1998 Service 47,197
28.12.1996 Service 41,834
29.12.1995 Service 35,876
28.12.1994 Service 29,608
31.12.1993 Service 22,938
24.12.1992 Service 16,533
31.12.1991 Service 9,467
Key Details
  • ModelGolf GTi
  • TransmissionMaunal
  • Reg. Date09.10.1990
  • CC1781
  • Mileage~106,521 on clock
  • ColourTornado Red
  • Interior ColourGrey
  • Interior TrimFabric
  • Chassis #WVWZZZ1GZLW714574
  • Engine #PB186915
  • MOTYes Exp: 03.03.2026
  • HPi ClearYes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers2
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned~4 Years, 10 months
  • Key FeatureCondition
  • Vehicle RegistrationH989 PLS
  • Driver’s SideRHD
  • Fuel TypePetrol
  • Body TypeHatchback
  • Auction ID2524

Insurance Quote


Average annual insurance premium for a like this is via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

*Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid .

Vehicle Location

Nottingham

Thank You


Offer Submitted

Your offer has been submitted successfully and we'll be in touch shortly.