UK-POLOS.NET - THE VW Polo Forum

Hey all,

Well I've become a little curious about 16Valve mk4's despite expecting my insurance premium to rise...
What exactly are the differences between the 8v and 16v polos?
I know about the front bumper with fogs.... what other differences are there?
How well does it drive/ corner?
0-60 time?
Would be good to hear some feedback from 16v owners... positives & negatives?

As always.... any input is appreciated

http://www.parkers.co.uk/cars/reviews/R ... 028&page=7 - here's a good table of stats.

Can't believe the insurance group of a 16v, i know they have the extra bhp but 1.4 engine in group 10 is stupid, plus ... means i can't afford one!!

Anyways hope that helped some.

Hey mate, valvers are definately faster puts a smile on my face all the time!

You get better interior, seats wise and sports bumpers. Oh alloys aswell!

I think the gearbox has a a closer ratio?

Bad bits that ive heard of include the pedal box going.

Hope this helps!

Cheers guys...

Is there any other negatives I need to look out for....?

Good bits:

Shorter ratio gearbox (nicely spaced cogs allowing you to keep it in the power band between changes)
Gas dampers which give better handling (lift-off oversteer anyone?)
"Sporty" interior
Pedals nicely placed for heal'n'toe downshifts
Lower and nicer looking bumpers
Very revable engine which pulls all the way to the red line
Genuine 40mpg (well I do, but mine does seem strangely good on fuel!)

Bad bits:

Short radios can be tiresome on the motorway (4200rpm at 80mph)
Gearbox is a weak link, and some have problems
Some people have throttle body problems as the engine breather does spray a fair bit of oil which can clog it up

I should add I've not had any problems in the three years I've owned mine and it's just perfect for my every day car. I've added a full stainless exhaust system and K&N panel filter, but other than that it's totally standard