I had a really nice Fabia vRS a few years ago…, which was nicked (eventually recovered with very little damage) I like many, had started the car on a very cold morning to defrost it - In the few seconds it took me to grab the spare key out of a draw to lock it, it was gone… Apparently about 5 cars were nicked in about 20 minutes locally and were to be used in an armed robbery. Police found mine, and after their forensics had gone over it I got it back. Took it to my local VAG guy who checked it over, replaced the locks and keys… I replaced the badges and number plates which the scum had ripped off, and gave it a good valet. Sadly the damage was done and I never felt the same about the vRS again… Had to get a DVLA check done too, but when I advertised it (declaring the incident above in full) the new owner was happy to buy it at a very good price… Lesson learned on my part…!
I’ve been very lucky in comparison! I had a Mk2 Golf GTI about 20 years ago, which somebody decided to run over the top of when I was parked in Glasgow one night. Had footprints and dents up the bonnet and over the roof. Who does that?! I was not amused.
That is absolutely awful, the scum that is around still amazes sometimes… to add to the couple of other stories above I was massively into the Ford RS scene in the 2000’s (when the cars were actually affordable) and was in the RSOC for many years (and still am)… my first Series 2 Escort RS Turbo that i’d had as a daily for driver 3 years was stolen out of the car park at the Travelodge in Towcester in the middle of the night after being on our club stand at Ford Fair at Silverstone during the day before. That was 2007 and it was never seen again. I lost the car itself and everything inside and in the boot. Got a crime number and a fair (at the time) payout but the police wern’t especially interested - so i too know the feeling when you walk outside and see an empty car parking space!!! Thank goodness my mate was staying in the hotel as well and could give me a lift home - his Sierra Cosworth next to mine, untouched.
Finding it in flames and then having to walk past it every day in your neighbourhood, that is awful.
I got over it. It’s just metal and plastic. Hence I was happy that the RUC didn’t wade into that pub, if it meant officers could be hurt. If anything, it made me more invested in the next one.
It all ended ok. About 8 weeks after getting finding my car looking like a bit of discarded toast;
Thought it’s been a few weeks for an update. Got the all clear from Customs PTU so now just needs a full service, MOT and that fog light on then off to the DVLA.
Car saw its first bit of polish today. Really pleased with the side, just a bit more work on the bumper, bonnet and boot.
Opinion please on position of front number plate for NA’s to keep the classic look! Drawn to square nearside but would appreciate opinions. Thanks
Hiya, I’ve had all sorts on various MK1’s over the years. I actually like the square plinth for the JDM numberplate? They’re not exactly rare but I guess not too many available? Now I’ve said that, someone(hopefully) will be along with a list of sellers! 
Barrie
A numberplate bracket (Autokinkuk etc) that attaches to the tow hook/tiedown means the bumper is not drilled,
The plastic square plinth was appropriate to post 1995 cars. earlier cars would have had a metal bracket that is now hard to find.
Thank you. I’ll grab the auto link one. Looks smart enough.
Cheers
Anthony
That really is looking GREAT! 
You’d think it was a totally different car to the one you bought! 
Well done you! 
Worth every penny…and a good deal more! 
I just used a red bulb.
Didn’t want it to look like a faulty reverse light with a clear lens when I reverse and only the near side lights up.
Thank you Lordrobs for allowing me to buy your tonneau cover. Such a difference from a visible hood.
Question please. Anybody know the location of the engine number on the mk1 please?
Regards
Ant
