SUNDAY DRIVE: TIM

1988 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF MK2

AS TOLD TO Joshua Brosnahan PHOTO Joshua Brosnahan

“I bought this car in 2013 sight unseen from under a tree in Palmerston North, where it had been parked for four years. It was put on a train down to Christchurch and sent to the garage only to fail a warrant. I knew what needed fixing to get it road legal, and I’ve been driving it since.

I’ve always enjoyed driving smaller cars and wanted something a bit different. The Mk1 Golf is the godfather of hot hatches, and older ones aren’t a common sight on New Zealand roads, so this fit the bill well. Since I’ve had it, I’ve been constantly tinkering and tidying, searching for bits that were missing or needed replacing.

I’ve swapped the automatic transmission for a manual, and it’s lower. It still has the original 1.8L engine, but weighing less than 1000kg, it’s an enjoyable and involving drive.

I don’t see the point in driving an automotive appliance when you’ve got the choice to drive something fun every day. “

Have you painfully restored a 1978 Datsun from the ground up? Or maybe you finally bought your dream Renault! Is your car covered in dents and stickers but has a story to tell? Then come talk to us!

Send an email and picture to joshua@27publishers.co.nz to get your ride featured in Avenues.