Been running my MK1 2.8 XR4x4 as a daily driver for the last 10 years and the only major problem has been replacing the layshaft and rollers in the gearbox. Its running a fast road cam, exhaust, ported heads, 10:1 compression probably only making 160 - odd HP as the inlet manifolds are a restrictive piece of crap but plenty of torque and fast enough for a bit of fun. The brilliant handling more than makes up for the asthmatic engine! I have no plans to get rid of it any time soon even though sourcing parts down in this part of the world is a nightmare!!