Ratty Rescue: Little Red Rocket (Someday)

Our latest pathetic pile is a well worn Jetta that once put down some serious power. It’s looking for one of our faithful readers to help restore it to its former glory.

The prevalence of turbocharged four-cylinder engines in modern cars is astounding. There was a time not too long ago when the only way to get big power was by adding cylinders. For the third generation Jetta, VW added their all-new narrow-angle VR6 engine to the sedan. The addition of two cylinders put the car in the sports sedan category. This little Jetta nipped at the heels of much more expensive German models and was considered an entry-level BMW.

The enhancements aren’t limited to what’s in the engine bay. The GLX trim level added full leather interior, premium stereo, power everything, and a sunroof. The six-cylinder models are distinguished by their body color trim, rear spoiler, GLX-specific badging, chunky 16” BBS wheels, and a few other bits. Subtle, but effective.

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The souped-up sedan was well received by the media. Reviewers praised the torquey 2.8-liter engine, They especially liked the throaty growl that came from the engine bay. Suspension upgrades helped the car feel planted in corners, but the big engine added weight to the nose of the car.

This 1998 Jetta GLX has seen better days. Like any car with nearly 200,000 miles, the body has its share of scratches and dings. But there are cars out there with a quarter of the miles this Jetta has that are in much worse condition. The door trim is sagging; nothing a little 3M trim tape can’t fix. The interior is pretty rough, but salvageable. It needs a good cleaning to start. The driver’s sport seat has some split seams and leather wear. But like many of our Ratty Rescue candidates, it’s a complete car.

So if you’re looking for a project, and you crave the down-low torque a four-cylinder engine can’t replicate, this could be the car for you. Check out the listing on copart.com. The car is in Flint Michigan, there have been no bids.

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