Autopia.org - View Single Post - Comments appreciated--128 vs. GTI

Hey, Moe! · 04-07-09, 02:46

As I am preparing to retire at the end of May after 34 years as a schoolteacher, I am also pondering a new car purchase (maybe a treat?)

I intend to keep my by-then, paid-for Focus ST, since it is enjoyable to drive, and very reliable. It would also help me keep the miles down on the new ride (I drive 18-20K a year). And, with the Blizzaks on, it storms through winter.

I have test-driven a BMW 128, and liked it. And, I have always admired the BMW brand. However, it is possible to get a GTI that has maybe 90% of the fun-to-drive factor for significantly less money. I actually owned an '83 GTI (first year in the US), and loved driving it. The slightly-redone 2010 model due in the fall will have another 10 HP over the '09.

I would appreciate any comments on the two cars, though it is a bit of an apples and oranges comparison. Also, if anyone has any suggestions for qualty VW forums to take a look at, please chime in (I already have BMW covered).

Feel free to offer anything.

Thanks!

Mike

04-07-09, 02:46	#1 (permalink)
Hey, Moe! Registered User Hey, Moe! is offline Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Central PA Posts: 503	Comments appreciated--128 vs. GTI As I am preparing to retire at the end of May after 34 years as a schoolteacher, I am also pondering a new car purchase (maybe a treat?) I intend to keep my by-then, paid-for Focus ST, since it is enjoyable to drive, and very reliable. It would also help me keep the miles down on the new ride (I drive 18-20K a year). And, with the Blizzaks on, it storms through winter. I have test-driven a BMW 128, and liked it. And, I have always admired the BMW brand. However, it is possible to get a GTI that has maybe 90% of the fun-to-drive factor for significantly less money. I actually owned an '83 GTI (first year in the US), and loved driving it. The slightly-redone 2010 model due in the fall will have another 10 HP over the '09. I would appreciate any comments on the two cars, though it is a bit of an apples and oranges comparison. Also, if anyone has any suggestions for qualty VW forums to take a look at, please chime in (I already have BMW covered). Feel free to offer anything. Thanks! Mike