Tracey Cantrell – 1986 VW Golf GTi

The MK1 Golf was Tracey’s dream car in her 20s, inspired by a friend who had one. She couldn’t own one back then, but years later, saw a VW Golf convertible on eBay for £650, placed a bid, and won it.

“I picked it up from Essex and drove it home without issues,” says Tracey. “I named her Marilyn and loved her. She made me smile every time I drove her, but as other commitments took over, I stopped driving her. Eventually, I let my son take over, and she sat in the garage for six years.

“When I had to move, I decided to restore her. First, I had her resprayed and fitted with new wheels, but the wheels caught on the rear, so more work was needed. I sent Marilyn to a garage for an engine rebuild, along with new chrome parts. The engine was dirty and needed attention after a friend’s daughter admired the car at a wedding. Marilyn spent a couple of years in the garage.

“I wanted Marilyn ready for a family wedding, but she broke down on the way. After a few more years of issues, I took her to a VW specialist in Stoke-on-Trent, where I decided to swap the engine for a new MK4 engine with updates like power steering. The car also received a red interior, mohair hood, and suspension upgrades.”

It took another couple of years but in 2024, Marilyn was finally back on the road. She has lifted the winner’s trophy at several classic car shows.

“Though she’s still not perfect, I love my car.”