Slightly more grown-up, but in the right hands still a fantastic retro GT, the Mk2 Scirocco is an affordable introduction to the Karmann coupé family

Driving

Most will agree that the Mk2 Scirocco is slightly more refined and well-mannered than the Mk1. We’re not talking early Golf versus Mk3 Golf comparisons here though: this tourer is no slouch and promises an engaging drive (especially if you can get your mitts on a fuel injected example). Steering is light and precise, but power steering as standard points to this car’s cruising qualities – the Mk1 Scirocco is arguably the more fun for B-roads.

Despite the Scirocco never quite hitting the cult status of the Mk1/Mk2 Golf, the two still have quite a lot in common. All controls are easily to hand, throttle response is light and gearing is precise. What’s more, the low-down driving position is something that’s missing from Wolfsburg’s iconic hatch.

As it’s the same chassis as the Mk1 Scirocco (which in turn has a lot in common with VW’s first water-cooled hot hatch success) the Mk2 ‘Rocco can also benefit from the majority of brake, suspension and engine modifications aimed at Mk1 Golfs.

Market Values

Prices for Mk2s haven’t quite leveled out yet. As such, there’s a fairly big gap price-wise between bangers and show-worthy motors. While mint Eighties ‘Roccos have sold for £2000-3000, focusing on condition, rather than specific models, is the best advice.

Sean Fleetwood continues: “8 valve injected engined examples such as the GTI, Storm, GTX and later Scalas remain the most desirable – only a handful of 16v cars ever landed here in the UK – but these are increasingly difficult to locate in good shape. Many have been thrashed and prices can vary markedly depending on condition and history.”

Sean adds: “Whilst early pre-bodykit cars seem to be attracting a premium when they do appear for sale, there remains a ready supply of cheap carbed 86-88 1.6 GT and later 1.8 GT/GT11 versions.”

THE KNOWLEDGE

                      SCIROCCO GL               SCIROCCO GTX

ENGINE:        1588cc 4-cyl OHC          1781cc 4-cyl 16v
BHP/RPM:     85@5800                      112@5800
TOP SPEED:   110mph                        122mph
0-60:             7.3secs                         6.3secs
GEARBOX:     4/5-speed manual or 3-speed auto
CLUBS
Scirocco Register >     www.sciroccoregisterforum.co.uk

Special thanks to the Scirocco Register for help with this article. Visit the club’s website at www.sciroccoregister.co.uk for more information

To read the rest of this buying guide see the October 2011 issue of Golf+.

Back issues available here.