Description
We have just imported our third Volkswagen Lupo GTI from Japan. It is in superb condition and is now UK registered on a 2003/ 53 number. It is MOT'd to August 2022.
Our preparation has so far included the following work:
Replacement of the Cam Belt Kit & Water Pump
Engine Service including Oil & Filter, Spark Plugs and Air Filter
Replacement of Front Discs & Pads
Tyres replaced with new Toyo Proxes in the correct 205/ 45 size
Replacement Fuel Sender Unit
Obtaining a second (non remote) key
All work has been undertaken by a leading VAG specialist (Votex in Congleton), using genuine VAG parts.
Being a 2003 model this example has the preferred 6 speed manual close ratio gearbox. It is unmodified and has covered 103, 000 miles.
As with the previous two it resembles like a 12 month old vehicle underneath due to the lack of salt used on Japanese roads during winter months.
These pint sized GTI's are proper no frills back to basics hot hatches with a low weight of just 950 kg's and a 1600cc twin cam engine that produces 123 bhp. There are no turbos or touchscreens, just the basics that put enjoyment in driving! There are electric windows, ABS, air-con and central locking though.
What makes these GTI's special is the way that they are so different from the standard car that they are based on. It is a creation of motorsport engineers not marketeers. Firstly the engine and gearbox are unique to this model and it's 200kg heavier Polo GTi cousin. Then the bodywork is significantly changed with re profiled rear arches, wider front & rear tracks, thinner glass, a different boot floor to allow the battery to be re located there for improved weight distribution. Most significantly the doors, front wings and bonnet are all made from aluminium not the usual steel. Clearly the Lupo GTI was not the usual approach that VW took to it's GTI models at the time which was to simply fit a larger engine and some sporty trim. The Lupo GTI is perhaps as far removed from its base car as the original BMW M3 was from the regular E30; I really do think that! The classic car world has not woken up to all this yet but I'm of the opinion that when it does there will be another significant rise in the value of these cars as has already happened with the original Peugeot 106 Rallye. Investment as well as enjoyment could well turn out to be the reality over the next few years.
Please don't hesitate to get in touch with your interest.
