VW Lupo GTI: Review, Specs And Buying Guide - Evo

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Come 2001 and the Lupo was refreshed and was all the better for it. The original five-speed ’box was swapped out for a close-ratio six-speeder, amplifying the car’s peppy character.

> VW Golf GTI Mk1 

A hit with the press but not so much punters, just 950 Lupo GTIs sold in the UK and less than 700 are left today, so it’s a rare sight. With that, you’re unlikely to find one in the classifieds.

Specs

Engine	In-line 4-cyl,1598cc
Max power	123bhp @ 6500rpm
Max torque	112lb ft @ 3000rpm
Transmission	Six-speed manual, front-wheel drive
Weight (dry)	1038kg
Power-to-weight (dry)	120bhp/ton
0-62mph	8.2sec (claimed)
Top speed	127mph (claimed)
Price new	£12,995 (2001)

Checkpoints

Engine

The experts at ClubLupo.co.uk confirm the little GTI is a typical VW in that it’s well screwed together and largely reliable, but there are some niggles to be wary of. First of all, check if the engine is burning oil: piston ring failures have resulted in scratched bores; others have blown valve-stem seals, so look for blue smoke on the overrun and oil specks on the tailgate on higher milers (110,000-plus).

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Once warmed up the engine should sit at 90deg C; if that’s not the case it’s likely a replacement thermostat and/or temperature sender is required – both common faults but inexpensive to fix. A lumpy idle or misfire often indicates the coil packs and HT leads are due a refresh, too.

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Transmission

Neither gearbox is known for faults, though some five-speeders do suffer shaft and synchro failures – in the worst circumstances jumping out of gear – so if you're eyeing an early car look out for this. If the shift seems reluctant, don’t be too deterred as the turret on top of the ’box probably needs lubricating. For both enjoyment and reliability the six-speeder’s the one to have, though.

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Suspension, steering and brakes

It's featherweight status means the Lupo is light on its brakes and suspension. That said, on a test drive you should keep an ear out for any knocking – almost certainly the anti-roll bar bushes. Aftermarket coilover kits are common and shouldn't be cause for concern provided the car hasn't been drastically lowered.

Body, interior and electronics 

On inspecting the car, take a magnet (wrapped in cloth) to check the car is still wearing all the aforementioned aluminum panels. If it’s been crashed, these items could have been replaced with steel equivalents (the original bonnet is no longer available; the other aluminium panels are expensive).

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