Mk1 Golf with a Starlet Engine?
Posted: Thu Oct 23, 2025 1:49 pm
This is pretty cool. Though fuck knows if the engine and box is actually any good.
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/it ... 675872824/


Volkswagen Golf Mk1 – Daily Driver, Tin Top, Rust-Free, Modern Engine Swap – £6,000 (or PX)
This isn’t your typical Mk1 Golf headache, it’s a proper turn the key and drive classic. Perfect for someone who wants the retro looks and charm without the unreliability.
Rust-free tin top shell
Daily-driver reliable (was driving in London daily when i worked in the city as ULEZ exempt)
High-quality Toyota 4EFE auto swap
Engine & Running Gear
Toyota Starlet 4EFE engine fitted with a Dbilas Dynamic performance camshaft, valve spring set, and RamAir induction filter.
Power output: approx same as Mk1 GTI bhp.
Toyota Starlet power steering and auto transmission, don’t let the auto put you off, it absolutely flies and makes the car super usable day-to-day.
All cooling and electrics run through the Starlet loom, but the Mk1 Golf interior fusebox has been retained, making future repairs and parts sourcing straightforward.
Conversion carried out to a high standard.
Chassis & Interior;
Coilovers all round.
DARE RS split rims with good tyres (plenty of tread).
Interior from a Mk2 GTI.
GPS speedometer neatly integrated into the original Mk1 binnacle.
All interior features (heater, electrics etc.) working (rear wiper disconnected).
Blaupunkt Bluetooth stereo with OEM look.
MDF, carpet-covered rear parcel shelf and supports.
Bodywork;
Repainted 10–12 years ago. Still polishes up well and presents nicely.
Front panel (previously smoothed) has some filler cracks.
A few car park dings, not concours, but far better than most Mk1s of this age.
The Reality;
This is a cracking little car fun, different, and in better condition than me at this age! It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but if you want a reliable daily classic with character, it’s spot on.
Price & Sale
£6,000
Or PX for something like a Porsche Boxster (for my wife to run around in).
Selling because my driveway is full of cars and this one just isn’t getting used anymore.
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/it ... 675872824/


Volkswagen Golf Mk1 – Daily Driver, Tin Top, Rust-Free, Modern Engine Swap – £6,000 (or PX)
This isn’t your typical Mk1 Golf headache, it’s a proper turn the key and drive classic. Perfect for someone who wants the retro looks and charm without the unreliability.
Rust-free tin top shell
Daily-driver reliable (was driving in London daily when i worked in the city as ULEZ exempt)
High-quality Toyota 4EFE auto swap
Engine & Running Gear
Toyota Starlet 4EFE engine fitted with a Dbilas Dynamic performance camshaft, valve spring set, and RamAir induction filter.
Power output: approx same as Mk1 GTI bhp.
Toyota Starlet power steering and auto transmission, don’t let the auto put you off, it absolutely flies and makes the car super usable day-to-day.
All cooling and electrics run through the Starlet loom, but the Mk1 Golf interior fusebox has been retained, making future repairs and parts sourcing straightforward.
Conversion carried out to a high standard.
Chassis & Interior;
Coilovers all round.
DARE RS split rims with good tyres (plenty of tread).
Interior from a Mk2 GTI.
GPS speedometer neatly integrated into the original Mk1 binnacle.
All interior features (heater, electrics etc.) working (rear wiper disconnected).
Blaupunkt Bluetooth stereo with OEM look.
MDF, carpet-covered rear parcel shelf and supports.
Bodywork;
Repainted 10–12 years ago. Still polishes up well and presents nicely.
Front panel (previously smoothed) has some filler cracks.
A few car park dings, not concours, but far better than most Mk1s of this age.
The Reality;
This is a cracking little car fun, different, and in better condition than me at this age! It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but if you want a reliable daily classic with character, it’s spot on.
Price & Sale
£6,000
Or PX for something like a Porsche Boxster (for my wife to run around in).
Selling because my driveway is full of cars and this one just isn’t getting used anymore.