As mentioned I am just starting a search for a Mk1 vRS and I am beginning to see something which appears to run through this model.BTW im not saying this problem does not exist with other makes and models.Anyway I have noticed a number of cars which have had a replacement engine due to oil starvation.Is this due to infrequent oil changes and not using fully synthetic oil ?

Just trying to get a heads up,many thanks in advance for your thoughts and comments.

Oil starvation is usually caused by a failed oil pump, low oil level or an oil pick-up being fouled up, but can be a result of incorrect oil being put in the engine (more evident during the colder months). Basically having the wrong viscosity can delay the time that it takes to pump the oil to the camshafts. Over time, this will ruin the bearings causing all sorts of engine probs.

Insufficiently frequent oil changes could be an issue too. There is even a reason for this.

There are 2 basic service schedules for the Octy 1:-

A) Every 10_000 miles (diesel) or 12_000 miles (petrol) or annually.

Variable service, which is dictated by an oil quality sensor. On this schedule you might expect to have an oil service every 15_000 to 20_000 miles. This relies on the use of certain specific fully synthetic oils, meeting certain VAG quality standards.

I suspect that some people have run schedule ( expecting that this means they can ignore the engine for 2 years, possibly not used the right oils, and not checked the oil level until the warning light comes on. Not a bright idea with a turbocharged engine!

So as always look for a comprehensive and regular service history.