After a cross-country road trip, a job offer from the U.S. Department of Labor spurred my search for a new car. Having sold my previous car, I needed reliable transportation. Car magazines praised the Volkswagen Rabbit, known as the Golf elsewhere. Introduced in 1975, the Rabbit initially suffered from carburetor issues. However, the 1977 model boasted Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, eliminating the carburetor and catalytic converter. Attractive features like front-wheel drive, hatchback versatility, and excellent fuel economy piqued my interest. My research led me to test drive several models at Staten Island Small Cars, focusing solely on the 1977 Vw Rabbit.
Choosing the Right 1977 VW Rabbit
By September 1977, the 1978 models were arriving with a smaller engine and reduced horsepower. Determined to secure a 1977 VW Rabbit with the more powerful 1.6L engine, I visited dealerships across Brooklyn, Queens, and New Jersey. Ultimately, I returned to Staten Island Small Cars. Salesman Arthur McKeever, a memorable character with a missing right arm, expertly demonstrated a red Rabbit. The car’s pep and minimal torque steer impressed me.
1977 VW Rabbit: Base Model vs. Custom
Three 1977 two-door Rabbits remained: a red demo, a yellow Custom, and a white base model. While the four-door lacked the sporty appeal I desired, the base model’s $3599 price tag was enticing. It featured bias-ply tires, houndstooth cloth upholstery, vinyl flooring, non-opening vent windows, and a manual hatch rod, unlike the Custom’s radial tires, leatherette, carpeting, opening vent windows, and gas strut hatch.
Purchasing My 1977 VW Rabbit
The white 1977 VW Rabbit, with its black-and-white interior, won me over. My father co-signed the loan, and I took delivery of my first new car – an unforgettable experience. Three weeks later, I upgraded to Pirelli CN-36 radial tires, dramatically improving the car’s handling. Cibie euro-style headlights with H4 bulbs significantly enhanced night visibility.
Long-Term Ownership of My 1977 VW Rabbit
For over four years, my 1977 VW Rabbit served as my reliable daily driver, accumulating 112,000 mostly trouble-free miles. Minor oil consumption, a known issue with valve stem seals, was easily managed. Some rust began to appear at the base of the A-pillars. Overall, the experience was so positive that I eventually replaced it with another new Volkswagen.
My 1977 VW Rabbit proved to be a fantastic first car, offering fuel efficiency, practicality, and a fun driving experience. It solidified my appreciation for Volkswagen’s engineering and design.
