Volkswagen Polo Coupe S (1981-90) (Mark 2)

The Volkswagen Polo Coupe S from 1981-1990, like many cars of its era, had its share of common issues. Here are some of the most frequently reported problems:

Rust: The Polo Coupe S was prone to rust, especially around the wheel arches, sills, and underbody.

Electrical Issues: Problems with the electrical system, such as faulty wiring and issues with the headlight switch, were common.

Cooling System: The cooling system could be problematic, with issues like thermostat failures and coolant leaks.

Carburettor Problems: The carburettor often caused issues, including poor starting, cutting out, and rough idling.

Oil Leaks: Oil leaks from the engine and gearbox were not uncommon.

Suspension Wear: The suspension components, particularly the bushings and shock absorbers, tended to wear out relatively quickly.

Fuel System: Problems with the fuel pump and fuel shut-off valve could cause the engine to cut out unexpectedly.

If you own or are considering buying a Polo Coupe S, it's a good idea to have it thoroughly inspected by a mechanic familiar with these models.
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Generations
The Volkswagen Polo has gone through several generations since its introduction in 1975. Specifically for the Polo Coupe S, it was part of the second generation (Mk2) of the Polo, which was produced from 1981 to 19942. The Mk2 Polo had a facelift in 1990, often referred to as the Mk2F.

So, the Polo Coupe S was part of the second generation of the Volkswagen Polo.
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Trim Levels
The Volkswagen Polo from 1981 to 1990 came in several trim levels, each offering different features and equipment. Here are some of the main trim levels available during that period:

Base/Standard: The entry-level trim with basic features.

C: A step up from the base model, offering a few additional comforts.

CL: More features than the C trim, including better interior materials and additional options.

GL: A higher trim level with more standard features and options.

GLS: The top-of-the-line trim with the most features and luxury options.

Coupe S: A sportier version with performance-oriented features.

These trims varied in terms of interior and exterior features, engine options, and other specifications.
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Engines
The Volkswagen Polo Coupe from 1981 to 1990 offered several engine options. Here are some of the main engines available during that period:

895cc: This was the base engine, producing around 40 horsepower.

1043cc: A more common engine, offering around 45 horsepower.

1093cc: This engine was used in various trims, producing around 50 horsepower.

1272cc: The most powerful engine available, producing up to 75 horsepower in the GT model.

These engines provided a range of performance options to suit different driving needs
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Performance
The performance of the 1981-1990 Volkswagen Polo Coupe variants varied depending on the engine and trim level. Here are some key performance figures for the different variants:

895cc Engine:

Power: Around 40 horsepower

Top Speed: Approximately 85 mph (137 km/h)

0-60 mph: Around 18 seconds

1043cc Engine:

Power: Around 45 horsepower

Top Speed: Approximately 90 mph (145 km/h)

0-60 mph: Around 16 seconds

1093cc Engine:

Power: Around 50 horsepower

Top Speed: Approximately 95 mph (153 km/h)

0-60 mph: Around 14 seconds

1272cc Engine (GT Model):

Power: Up to 75 horsepower

Top Speed: Approximately 105 mph (169 km/h)

0-60 mph: Around 11 seconds

These figures give you a general idea of what to expect from the different Polo Coupe variants in terms of performance.
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Spares
Finding spare parts for a classic car like the Volkswagen Polo Coupe S (1981-1990) can be a bit of a treasure hunt, but there are several places in the UK and Ireland where you can locate them:

Volkswagen Classic Parts: They offer a wide range of parts for older Volkswagen models, including the Polo Mk2. You can check their catalog here.

Heritage Parts Centre: This is a great resource for VW Polo Mk1 and Mk2 parts, spares, and accessories. They have a comprehensive selection and are known for their quality and service. Visit their site here.

Auto Parts Pro: They provide a variety of parts for different Volkswagen Polo models, including the Polo II Coupe. You can explore their offerings here.

Vindis Volkswagen Bedford: A dealership with a network across the UK, they might have the parts you need or be able to order them for you. More information can be found here.

These resources should help you find the parts you need to keep your classic Polo Coupe S running smoothly.
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Specialists
Maintaining a classic car like the Volkswagen Polo Coupe S requires specialized care. Here are some garages in Northern Ireland that can help:

Maguires Garage, Belfast: Known for their extensive experience with both modern and classic cars. They offer a range of services and have a good reputation.

Eurofix Car Repairs, Belfast: Specializes in classic car restoration and maintenance. They have over 40 years of experience and offer a variety of services, including MOTs and diagnostics.

McMillan Specialist Cars, Antrim: Offers comprehensive maintenance and repair services for classic cars. They are well-regarded for their attention to detail and quality of work.

East Hills Garage, Belfast: Provides a range of car repair and maintenance services, including work on classic cars. They are known for their skilled team and high-quality service.
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Racing
The Volkswagen Polo Coupe S from 1981-1990 did have a presence in motorsport, although it wasn't as prominent as some other models. The Polo Coupe S was used in various local and regional rally events and club racing. Its lightweight design and nimble handling made it a suitable candidate for these types of competitions.

One notable example is the Polo Sprint, a high-performance prototype built in 1983 to provide handling data for Volkswagen engineers. This car featured a 1.9-litre, flat-four engine with a supercharger, producing 155bhp. It was rear-wheel drive and had a top speed of 125mph, with a 0-60mph time of 8 seconds. Although the Polo Sprint was never intended for production, it showcased the potential of the Polo platform in motorsport.

While the Polo Coupe S itself wasn't a major player in professional racing circuits, it certainly had its moments in the spotlight in amateur and club racing scenes.
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Values
The value of a 1981-1990 Volkswagen Polo Coupe S can vary significantly based on its condition, mileage, and originality. Generally, you can expect the following price ranges:

Poor Condition: Around £500 to £1,000

Fair Condition: Approximately £1,000 to £2,500

Good Condition: Between £2,500 and £5,000

Excellent Condition: Up to £7,000 or more

For a more precise valuation, you might want to check out resources like Parkers or Classics World, which offer detailed price guides and valuation tools.

If you're considering buying or selling one, it's always a good idea to get a professional appraisal to ensure you're getting a fair deal.
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