I'll help to update the German version of this later... in the mean time:
The petrol should sound like it's doing work; pickup should be clean from tickover and the red line is around 5200rpm. It won't zing all the way round, especially if it's wearing 17s, but it should be clean and pull strongly from 2500 and only fade off at 4800 or so.
If it's earlier, the airfilter is probably due for a change (which is a good idea anyway).
AUAs can have a software upgrade which is well worth it, it improves the way it hangs on the gas and makes it more drivable.
Drive over a small bump or two with some lock on the steering @ 15-20mph; there should be no "clongs" and if there are, you need the ARB or connecting rods looked at / replaced. It's no biggie, but still.
1.4s have no discs at the rear, so as long as the handbrake is pulling equally on both sides, no issue.
For the springs, I don't think you'll really notice it's about to break, but if it does it will make nice noises when you turn the wheel whilst standing still.
Other quick stuff to check:
- the left button on the instrument cluster - check when it thinks the next service is due
- kerbed alloys
- climate: put the fan on 3 or 4 bars and then try diverting the air around. If it has a problem pushing it (you should hear it, but do this while the engine's not running), there is a flap issue (many, many cars have this) and you should think about getting them to replace the central distribution unit as it's something you can do yourself but is a real ****.
Also try the demist button and then Auto. There should be no perceivable draughts once it's reached temperature and no real temp changes (it's a good system).
- drop the back seats, one at a time (move the front ones forward). Pull the handle behind the seat, let it drop. Now pull from the handle at the rear side of the base. When you've checked that the leg to hold it in place is fine and fits (!), drop the seat again. If it doesn't latch, lean on it with some weight and then you can raise the seat back itself back to the upright position.
- check the state of the b-pillar covering on the driver's side. If it's tatty, ask them to replace it. It's not expensive but does get some abuse from nice people who just let the seat belt go.
- put the lights on and check the glovebox light works.
- use the remote to open the boot (from several feet away) and try to shut it again after checking the state of the plastic in front of the door opening. Try also using the key to open and shut the windows: press and hold lock or unlock. If they don't work, reset the window (drop it to the bottom, hold for 2 sec, then raise completely and hold for 2sec) and repeat.
- check under the sills on the outside; there are many who do not understand the correct jacking points and therefore try to raise the car using the plastic sills. These do not take kindly to the treatment.
- take the bonnet off and check the rear corners for scratch damage. You can check the last brake fluid change and the state of the coolant at the same time. Fit the bonnet at the back first, then seat it and push backwards, then turn the locking knobs.
- headlamp levelling appears to be an issue for some
- the state of the inside trim (a-pillar) on the drivers side may be nasty, as it will be the place everyone rests their foot against. it's cheap to replace.
- if there's a cruise control: set it. It should work above 25mph or so. Try accelerating and decelerating.
- if they allow it or are prepared to do it, a VAG-COM readout will tell you more than you need to know.
- Bret
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