Hey,
I have one a 1981 convertible I am slowly restoring. I bought one for my son a few years ago. He ran it till the fuel Injection pump died and he moved to NY to go to school.
They are a little tricky. Stay away from the early units. They were neat looking, but they are loaded with wiring nightmares. Not to mention other flaws, that just aren't worth fixing. Once you get into the 80's they are a bit better. Although the fuse panels and a lot of the wiring is still poorly designed and usually require work once in a while.
We have a friend that has an 82 Sirocco, and loves it. But he has had to replace the fuse panel, replace the wiring harness under the hood, and replace most of the light sockets on the exterior.
I have had to replace most of the light sockets on my Vert as well. My fuse panel is all rusted up and causing troubles and is coming out this weekend.
All in all if you are mechanically inclined, like to work on cars, and buy a Bentleys manual, and have some tools, your ready for your first Rabbit. If you pay 2K you should be getting a fully restored car that has most of the aforementioned issues fixed. Most of the time you can get a descent Rabbit mid 80's for around $1500.00 that is is in very good condition.
As for reliable, even with all the wiring issues I have, my son had, and our friend had, all three cars always started and ran, and got us to were we needed to go, every time.
I think they are great little cars, I'd rather have a Rabbit than an MG any day!
Good luck!
