1.8 NA vs 1.6 8V

Side-by-side reliability comparison

Reliability score
Tied 80/100
0 / 100
BUY 1.8 NA Volkswagen
0 / 100
BUY 1.6 8V Volkswagen

Specifications

1.8 NA
1.6 8V
Brand
Volkswagen
Volkswagen
Verdict
BUY
BUY
Reliability
80
80
Years
1991--2000
1996--2003
Displacement
1781 cc
1595 cc
Layout
I4
I4
Type
Petrol Na
Petrol Na
Power
90 hp
100--102 hp
Known Issues
1
1
Total Risk Cost
€200--€400
€50--€150

Character

1.8 NA

"Golf III/IV, Passat B4. Simple 8V NA. Hydraulic lifters. Timing belt (interference). Oil leaks. Nearly unbreakable with basic maintenance. One of VW's most reliable engines."

1.6 8V

"Golf IV/Bora workhorse. Cast iron block. Simple 8-valve. Oil leaks at high mileage. Thermostat. One of VW's most reliable engines of the era."

Issues Comparison

1.8 NA 1

▲ HIGH
Timing belt (interference) €200--€400 60,000 km--90,000 km

1.6 8V 1

○ MINOR
Thermostat housing crack €50--€150 60,000 km--120,000 km

Models

1.8 NA 1

Golf Mk3 (1H) 1991--1997

1.6 8V 0

No models listed.

Full 1.8 NA Report Full 1.6 8V Report