Call them hot hatches, pocket rockets, or something else. But regardless of the name, small performance cars are a blast to drive and help preserve the bank account. This edition of Auction Dilemma looks at a last-gasp example from Ford and the standard-bearer from Volkswagen. Let’s check out a 2018 Ford Fiesta ST at Doug DeMuro’s Cars & Bids and a 2019 Volkswagen GTI on eBay.
2018 Ford Fiesta ST
Ford’s decision to mostly exit the passenger car business in the U.S. means any future Blue Oval hot hatches will likely be based on a crossover. So cars like the Fiesta ST may someday be as collectible as the early VW GTIs. This particular Fiesta ST has an abundance of aftermarket modifications that give it a clear edge over a stock model. With just 13,000 miles, the car is almost pristine (minus a few seller-reported blemishes), too.
Power for this front-driver comes from a turbo 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine factory rated at 197 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to an ECU tune, enhanced exhaust, and other upgrades, it’s likely this ST does better than the 6.9 seconds it takes to hit 60 mph without the mods (according to Car and Driver). A six-speed manual manages the power.
Befitting its low mileage is a perfect-looking interior with eye-catching Recaro seating. Other goodies include heated front seats, a power sunroof, and a Sony audio system.
2019 Volkswagen GTI
It’s been said before, but if there were a dictionary listing for “hot hatch,” a GTI image would accompany the words. And for enthusiasts, it’s refreshing, if not comforting, that Volkswagen still is committed to the segment. This 2019 VW with 24,000 miles captures the modernity of a Mk7 Golf but still embraces the original GTI formula.
Unlike the Fiesta, this GTI uses an automatic transmission (a seven-speed DSG setup) that helps it edge out a stock Fiesta in acceleration. That means 5.8 seconds to 60 mph, says Car and Driver. A manual would add a half-second penalty. It’s not a massive difference between the Ford and VW, especially with a stick. The GTI’s more powerful turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque) is undoubtedly held back by its larger size and weight.
This clean GTI is in the base S trim, so cabin equipment is more standard. Heated front seats and a touchscreen display are the only standout features beyond the typical air conditioning and power accessories.
Will Bids Heat Up For These Hot Hatches?
Each car offers a different flavor of budget performance. With three days left of bidding, the Ford Fiesta ST has a $12,500 current best offer. The Volkswagen GTI’s auction has one day remaining and a $16,094 high bid.
Sources: carsandbids.com, ebay.com