Re: Buying a MK1
Posted: 13/08/10 12:58
I recently did a 650 mile run over 2 days, average speed would have been around 70 mph and I got around 39 mpg. Got approximately the same last year on the run to JAE and back (700 odd miles)
It's not really worth welding the front bumper bar, they are usually beyond repair and are just bolted on. I got a new one for mine for around £110 with the OC discount
Bubbling on the rear arches isn't a good sign, the Mk1 rear arches rust from the inside out due to a flaw in Mr T's construction method. Depending on how bad it is, it may be early enough to catch it. It's not worth patching them up if they are away, there's are repair section available for the arches, better to replace with new metal, not that expensive to get done (depending on where you go)
Pay very careful attention to rear arches, sills (the sill extensions can hide a lot !) bottom of the B pillar (where the courtesy light switch is), top of the roof just above the windscreen, floor under the seats.
As has already been said, go for the best body you can find, that's the MK1's weak spot (and it seems the MK2's are beginning to go the same way). The mechanicals are relatively easy and cheap to replace, it's bodywork that costs the money
It's not really worth welding the front bumper bar, they are usually beyond repair and are just bolted on. I got a new one for mine for around £110 with the OC discount
Bubbling on the rear arches isn't a good sign, the Mk1 rear arches rust from the inside out due to a flaw in Mr T's construction method. Depending on how bad it is, it may be early enough to catch it. It's not worth patching them up if they are away, there's are repair section available for the arches, better to replace with new metal, not that expensive to get done (depending on where you go)
Pay very careful attention to rear arches, sills (the sill extensions can hide a lot !) bottom of the B pillar (where the courtesy light switch is), top of the roof just above the windscreen, floor under the seats.
As has already been said, go for the best body you can find, that's the MK1's weak spot (and it seems the MK2's are beginning to go the same way). The mechanicals are relatively easy and cheap to replace, it's bodywork that costs the money