Build or Buy: GTI Longroof

When the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen goes out of production, it will be the first time in decades that they won’t have a station wagon in their lineup, and that’s pretty sad. Throughout the years there have been a few iconic models offered: the Passat W8 6-speed, the Quantum Syncro Wagon, and the air-cooled Type 3 Squareback. But there’s one version VW never built: a GTI Avant. Good news: with some parts swapped out, you can make your own! Or for those lacking in know-how or time, we’ve found one for sale. So, do you build or buy?

Argument: Build
Article: 2009 Jetta SportWagen 2.0T DSG

Are these future collectors cars? A quick cars.com search produced shockingly few Jetta SportWagens with the 2.0T engine. That’s right: for a few years, Volkswagen dropped the same engine they put in the GTI into the wagon. And buyers could choose a 6-speed manual or the 2-pedal DSG transmission.

This particular JSW is DSG-equipped. It also has the charcoal interior with leather seats, 17″ alloy wheels, Climatronic, and the panoramic sunroof. Oh, and 103,000 miles.

Now if you’re planning to make this standard SportWagen more GTI-like, you’ll need more than the red-line grille. You’ll need the flat-bottomed steering wheel, the better-bolstered seats, and some Hufeisen wheels to name a few things.

So if you’re looking for a build-it-yourself GTI wagon, take a look at the cars.com classified ad, or see the car yourself in Houston, TX. The current asking price is $5,995.

Argument: Buy
Article: 2009 Jetta SportWagen 2.0T DSG

Our compliments to VWvortex member DasTechnoViking; he’s built a stunning GTI-ish wagon. This is definitely not your mom’s station wagon. Oh no. It has a laundry list of upgrades. At the top is the CTS Turbo K04 kit. There’s a Neuspeed intercooler, Jetex 3″ exhaust, and much much more. DasTechno estimates this car makes around 350HP.

This JSW rides on KW V3 coilovers, and has aluminum control arms and steering knuckles from a B6 Passat. A VW Racingline 6-piston brake kit brings all that HP to a firm (and probably very short) stop.

Other things to notice: the bi-xenon headlights from an R32, the 18″ Enkei wheels, and the GTI flat-bottom steering wheel with working paddle shifters.

With all that kit, DasTechno is asking a very reasonable $10,750 or best offer. Take a look at his classified ad in our forums for more information. He’s in Palantine, IL.

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