Jetta tow car?

[Stuwey]

Hi all, looking for some assistance.

A couple of times a year, I race a classic mini. At the minute, I don't own anything with a towbar and it makes life a hassle, having to beg, borrow, and steal a friends car every time.

I have, and will be keeping, my 9N3 GTI. I've spent too much time and money to sell it now.

Girlfriend wants a sedan, so thinking about a MK5 Jetta, manual, for a tow car. Undecided on petrol or diesel yet, I think it'll depend on what comes up for grabs.

Thoughts? Things to look for? Anyone got one they're looking to offload?

Cheers

[maca]

I'd assume the Jetta TDI would be the safer bet if you're towing with it, although I'm not sure if there's a tow capacity difference between the 103TDI and the 125TDI.

[jdd]

I think this depends on what type of trailer and other ‘bits and pieces’ that will be included in the towing weight.
I used to race classic Mini’s so I have a little experience with towing similar weights , although I didn’t tow with our Golf (mk5), I used a V8 Commodore.
A classic Mini will weigh around 650kg, depending on the class you’re racing.
The trailer will likely weigh between 300 and 500kg’s depending on whether it’s a single or dual axle. I would strongly recommend a dual axle with brakes on all 4 wheels so you’re probably looking around at least 400kg; if it’s semi or fully enclosed then the weight will obviously be higher.
Spare set of wheels – 30kg
Other spares – 50kg
Tools – 50kg
Fuel – 20-30kg
Total could easily be 1200kg or more.
Recommended tow ball weight is 10% of the load so 120kg which, when added to items already in the boot and potential back seat passengers will reduce the ride hide of the rear of the car quite a bit which could make it challenging to stop.
Being front wheel drive I suspect it would also be a challenge to accelerate away from a stop on a wet road, even with traction control.
In my opinion, I think its do-able (depending on the trailer and how much other stuff there is), but only just.
My biggest concern would be stopping the load in an emergency situation as the commodore I used I would only call adequate when it came to braking and this had 4 wheel over-ride brakes on the trailer, and a lighter tow car isn’t going to improve this situation.

[gldgti]

If you can stretch to a Passat you might be better off.

[Stuwey]

A classic Mini will weigh around 650kg, depending on the class you’re racing.

Motorkhana at Hay, love it and wouldn't miss it for the world.

Cheers for a well thought-out response. I've used a Magna, XR6 Falcon, XR8 Falcon, a 60 series Landcruiser, and a GU Patrol (all borrowed!) before and the old 60 was the best.

Didn't really want a 'large' car for the daily, but I think you may be right on the Passat.