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I have looked at a 2003 VW Golf registered 2006 in NZ as a GTI 2.0.

I am not sure if it is truly a GTI, it has a 4 speed auto and no GTI badges on the hatch.

What happens if I buy the car and it is not true to label?

How do I check if it is a GTI?

Ian

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 24 February 2010

I'm sure there are a number of "dressed up" cars out there not quite true to their badge.

The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is the only real way of clearly identifying the car if you have doubts. Using a VW dealer is probably the only guaranteed way of checking this out.

I would think the spare parts department would be able to tell you straight away once they had the VIN. The VIN should be located on the engine bay firewall or on the front engine panel by the radiator.

If you are looking at buying the car I would be putting the pressure on the seller to prove beyound doubt the vehicle is a genuine GTI.

Be careful Ian and assume nothing.