Kevin Rowley's 1987 Cabriolet

Miles on odometer: 125,000

Owned for 13 years

Engine:

None of any note. The head was milled after blowing a head gasket and warping the head. The center pipe of the exhaust is all that is left of a Techtonics cat back system.

Suspension:

Bilstein HD shocks and struts, Neuspeed upper stress bar

Wheels, Tires:

6 x 14 GTI wheels with 185/60HR 14 Pirelli P600 tires; brakes are stock

Exterior:

GTI front spoiler, Hella H4 headlights, canvas convertible top

Interior:

Flofit sport seats in vinyl with matching interior, 240 watt Alpine stereo system

Future plans, general comments:

This car is headed for a makeover - again. Did it once in 1991 after it was stolen and stripped; time to do it again. Euro bumpers, new transmission, engine rebuild, some chassis tuning are all in store.

Sage advice to others

"Aftermarket is not always the best way. Look to other VW models for upgrades before going the aftermarket route. The factory is pretty good at developing these cars. Also, never give up on a good car that you like. You can rebuild it; often more than once. "

E-Mail: krowley@mindspring.com