Re: new guy

[Wolff <wolff_b@ix.netcom.com>]

snip
> considering buying a 4000 that a mechanic friend of mine is putting
> together.  not sure of the year, but i'd say 82-86??  dual rectag
> headlights.  body is in decent shape, interior also decent.  sunroof,
> well, it doesn't close.  he's dropping a turbo diesel in it.  we don't
> know how many miles are on the engine, but he knows it's less than 100k.
snip
> non-Quattro worth owning?  do they have any serious flaws?
> 

Unless you have a specific need for diesel, I would stay away. Too slow.
The TD is barely driveable, while the non turbo is downright dangerous.
Seen 2 out of 2 blow the head gasket within 2 years of ownership. 
   A 4k gas powered car will drive much like your rabbit and get up to
38 mpg. A very good car. I would even dare say they are more reliable
than a 4kq (less moving parts) and certainly more reliable than a 5k.
Things to look for: Do all the gears work? Get a compression/leakdown
test on the motor. 
HTH,
Wolff