Modified VW Vento

Gareth Spiller’s modified VW Vento

What were you doing 14 years ago? Kind of a long time back, huh? Gareth Spiller was enjoying his first year of Vento ownership. And he’s still perfecting this stunning piece of Vee-Dub metal.

The Vento is, of course, like part of the family. Heck, in this messed-up world, celebrity marriages don’t even last 14 months, let alone 14 years. So the car’s special, then? Damn straight! Running an R32 lump on throttle bodies, it sounds absolutely mental and kicks out a no bullshit 300bhp. And being naturally aspirated, the throttle response is nothing short of incredible.

But like any build worth its salt, things haven’t been plain sailing. “I guess the low point was stripping the motor down to find that the previous engine builder had cut some corners. That cost a lot of Relocating fabricated pots. Tonk mounts and goodies. cash to put right,” says Gareth. “I guess it has taught me to only trust your close friend to do the work which you can’t!”

Gareth is quick to thank Andy Outhwaite at ACR in Darlington for the trick engine and bay work. Fellow Dubber and well known straight-talker Paul Horrocks also had a hand in stripping the car down. “Paul also helped to re-fit the roll cage without dinging the fresh paint!” smiles Gareth. And fresh it most definitely is. The sweet red hue pings out and looks the nuts.

So after months spent stripping the floor pan, perfectly plastic welding the bumper and countless hours polishing engine parts, has it all been worth it? “Yes, definitely,” says Gareth. “It’s very rewarding seeing all of the parts on the car and having the shell in paint knowing that I did that, with some help from my friends. And the best bit is the buzz I get when I squeeze into the rather tight race bucket seat and take it for a spin!” he grins.

14 years on and he’s still got plans, though. “In the future I’m going to fit a de-badged old-style four-slat grille and I’d also like to get my hands on a set of BBS E50 centre lock rims – they’re my all-time favourite wheels and will really suit the car’s theme.”

It sounds like, as with all good builds, Gareth’s Vento will never be truly finished. We look forward to seeing it in a few more years!