introduction
Project cars are always a gamble, but every now and then a bargain appears that is simply too tempting to ignore.
In our latest YouTube video, Gavin introduces what could be the cheapest Volkswagen Golf R32 currently available in the UK. With over 178,000 miles on the clock, plenty of cosmetic damage and several mechanical issues, this Mk5 R32 certainly isn’t perfect—but beneath the rough exterior could be an incredibly solid performance car.
Watch the full video below before we take a closer look at the project.
A Quick Update on the Mitsubishi FTO Build
Before revealing the latest purchase, Gavin provides an update on the Mitsubishi FTO K-Swap project.
While waiting for engine parts to arrive, work has continued on:
- Interior restoration
- Boot refurbishment
- New LED boot lighting
- Battery relocation
- Battery box fabrication
- Reupholstered interior panels
- Small cosmetic improvements including tinted indicators
Progress continues while the major engine components are on order.
Meet the Cheapest Golf R32 in the UK
Finding a genuine Golf R32 at a low price isn’t easy.
This Mk5 Golf R32 stood out for one reason—it was incredibly cheap.
However, the low purchase price comes with a long list of problems.
Some of the most noticeable issues include:
- Worn leather seats
- Damaged steering wheel
- Broken interior trim
- Sagging parcel shelf
- Faulty door handles
- Heavy wear throughout the cabin
- Numerous dents and scratches
- Rust on the wheel arches
- Poor previous body repairs
- Faded paint
- Damaged alloy wheels
- Loose front bumper
- Oxidised headlights
Despite its appearance, Gavin believes there’s still plenty of potential hiding underneath.
Surprisingly Good Mechanical Condition
One of the biggest surprises was how well the car actually drives.
The Golf features:
- 3.2-litre naturally aspirated VR6 engine
- Six-speed manual gearbox
- 4Motion all-wheel drive system
Despite the high mileage, the drivetrain feels remarkably healthy.
According to Gavin, the engine runs quietly, the gearbox shifts smoothly, power delivery is excellent and the four-wheel-drive system performs exactly as it should.
Diagnosing the Faults
After connecting a diagnostic scanner, Gavin cleared all stored fault codes before carrying out a road test.
This helps eliminate errors that may simply have been caused by the previously flat battery.
After the road test, the remaining issues included:
- Secondary air pump fault
- Low air conditioning refrigerant pressure
- Heated mirror electrical fault
- Headlamp washer relay fault
- Alarm horn communication issue
- Passenger door electrical faults
- Ignition switch circuit fault
Fortunately, none of these faults prevented the vehicle from driving exceptionally well, making this project a promising candidate for restoration.
The Restoration Plan
The original idea was to combine parts from multiple vehicles to create one outstanding Golf R32.
Although those plans have changed slightly, Gavin has something even more exciting in mind.
The goal now is to restore the car back to its former glory while making carefully chosen upgrades along the way.
Future videos will cover:
- Mechanical repairs
- Rust removal
- Bodywork restoration
- Wheel refurbishment
- Paint correction
- Interior refurbishment
- Performance improvements
This project is only just getting started.
Watch the Full Video
If you’d like to hear the legendary VR6 engine, see the vehicle inspection and follow the full restoration journey, watch the complete video below.
