
Volkswagen Scirocco (1974-81)
Production Total: 504,153
Recorded in UK 2024
CL Licensed=15 SORN=19
GLi Licensed=15 SORN=33
GLi Automatic Licensed=4 SORN=1
GLS Licensed=45 SORN=57
GTi Licensed=33 SORN=71
GTL Licensed=7 SORN=11
GTX Licensed=64 SORN=236
GTX 16v Licensed=0 SORN=4
Scala Licensed=165 SORN=453
Scala Automatic Licensed=6 SORN=8
Storm Licensed=20 SORN=79

The classic Volkswagen Scirocco—a car that exudes a certain retro-cool charm! Let's dive into some common quirks and hiccups that these beauties might encounter.
1. **Rattles and Squeaks**:
- Being based on Golf parts, the Scirocco has generally maintained a decent reliability record. However, some owners have reported rattles and squeaks, particularly from the boot and windows. Those window-related noises can be quite elusive to fix—like trying to catch a mischievous squirrel in your garage!
- Speaking of the boot, early Sciroccos had an issue with the gas-filled support struts failing. Imagine opening the boot, and instead of a gentle lift, you get a dramatic "thud." Not exactly the elegant entrance you were hoping for, right?
2. **Steering Wheel Switches**:
- If you find that the switches on your Scirocco's steering wheel aren't cooperating, blame it on the airbag. Yes, the airbag can be a bit of a troublemaker here. The solution? Get a specialist to take a look and sort out the airbag issue. Safety first, after all!
3. **Dashboard Display Quirks**:
- Sometimes, the dashboard display might decide it's not in the mood for sixth gear. It's like the car's having a little existential crisis: "Am I in sixth? Am I not? Who am I, really?"
- If this happens, it's worth checking the sensors and connections related to gear detection. Maybe your Scirocco just needs a gentle pep talk to get back on track.
4. **USB Device Drama**:
- USB ports can be finicky creatures. If your Scirocco's USB port throws a tantrum and declares, "usb device not supported," don't panic. It's not personal; it's just having a bad day. Try different devices, check cables, and maybe even whisper some encouraging words to it. You never know—it might start cooperating.
5. **Leaky Boot**:
- Water leaking into the boot? Oh, the drama! It's like your Scirocco decided to host its own mini swimming pool back there. Check the seals, drainage channels, and any suspicious gaps. Maybe your car just wants to join the amphibious lifestyle.
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Generations
The Volkswagen Scirocco—a name that conjures up images of wind-swept coastal drives, retro vibes, and perhaps a touch of continental flair. Let's hop into our metaphorical time-traveling Scirocco and explore its generational journey!
1. **First Generation (1974–1981)**:
- The Scirocco made its grand entrance at the 1973 Geneva Motor Show, strutting its stuff with a sleek, wedge-like fastback profile. Designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro, this beauty was all about style.
- Production kicked off in 1974, and the first-gen Scirocco stayed on the scene until 1981. During this time, over half a million of these little gems were crafted. Not too shabby, right?
- Under the hood, you'd find a range of four-cylinder engines, each with its own personality:
- From the modest 1.1-liter chugger (50 bhp) to the more spirited 110 bhp GTI version, the Scirocco offered options for various tastes.
- Oh, and let's not forget the US-only 1.7-liter engine—it had a bit of an exclusive vibe going on across the pond.
- Fun fact: The lack of D.O.T.-approved rectangular headlights in the US meant that all Sciroccos imported there had to rock four round headlights. It's like the car was saying, "I'm European, but I'll adapt!"
2. **Second Generation (1981)**:
- The Scirocco's second act arrived in 1981. It followed the first-gen's footsteps, but with a fresh twist.
- Alas, this generation didn't stick around as long—it bowed out in 1992. But hey, quality over quantity, right?
3. **Bonus Sibling**: The Corrado
- Between 1988 and 1995, the Scirocco had a more powerful but slightly less successful sibling—the Volkswagen Corrado. Think of it as the Scirocco's cooler cousin who hung out in the shadows.
So, there you have it: two generations of Scirocco goodness. Sleek lines, spirited engines, and a dash of European flair—all wrapped up in a compact hatchback. If these cars could talk, they'd probably share stories of winding roads, sunny days, and the occasional parking lot mishap.
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Engines
Let's pop the hood of the classic Volkswagen Scirocco from 1974 to 1981 and take a peek at its heart—the engines that made it tick.
1. **1.1-Litre Engine (49 bhp)**:
- The entry-level Scirocco models came equipped with a modest 1.1-litre engine. Picture it—a carburetted powerhouse churning out a whopping 49 brake horsepower. It might not have set any land-speed records, but it was all about economy and practicality. Perfect for those who preferred to sip fuel rather than gulp it down.
2. **1.5-Litre Engine (70 bhp)**:
- Stepping up a notch, we have the 1.5-litre engine. With a more respectable 70 bhp, this engine struck a balance between efficiency and a touch of pep. It's like the Scirocco decided, "Hey, let's add a dash of enthusiasm to our morning commute!"
3. **Scirocco GTI (1.6-Litre, 108 bhp)**:
- Ah, the Scirocco GTI—the one that made enthusiasts' hearts skip a beat. Sporting a fuel-injected 1.6-litre engine, it cranked out a spirited 108 bhp. Remember, this was the '70s and '80s—so by those standards, it was like strapping a rocket to your daily driver.
- The Scirocco GTI's lightweight build (around 800 kg) meant it could sprint from 0 to 62 mph in a respectable 8.8 seconds. Not bad, right? Plus, it had disc brakes all around and front/rear anti-roll bars. Fancy!
4. **Limited-Edition Storm**:
- In 1979, the UK got a treat—the limited-edition Scirocco Storm. Imagine a regular Scirocco, but with a touch more luxury. Leather seats, perhaps a cup holder (okay, maybe not), and an air of exclusivity. It's the kind of Scirocco that would sip Earl Grey tea while discussing the finer points of torque curves.
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Spares
Here are a few avenues you can explore to find those cherished components:
1. **Volkswagen Classic Parts**:
- The good folks at Volkswagen Classic Parts have your back. They specialize in original spare parts for classic VW models, including the Scirocco. You'll find everything from connecting rods to clutch parts in their inventory¹. It's like a treasure trove for vintage car enthusiasts!
- Their website is a nostalgic journey through time, complete with exploded diagrams and photographs. So, grab your metaphorical fedora and explore their offerings.
2. **Heritage Parts Centre**:
- These folks are like the wizards of vintage VW parts. With over 25,000 parts in stock, they're practically the Dumbledore of Scirocco spares. 🪄
- Their online store is a magical place where you can find engines, body panels, exhausts, and more. Plus, they offer fast and free delivery. Accio Scirocco parts!
3. **BreakerLink**:
- Picture this: a network of quality breakers and suppliers across the UK and Ireland, all working together to find the exact part you need. That's BreakerLink for you!
- They offer a FREE Car Parts Finder service, and any part they locate is guaranteed. It's like having a team of car detectives on the case.