Rodrigo's H20 International Award Winning Car

This 2003 VW Jetta GLI began life much like any other car. It was built by Volkswagen and shipped out of Germany to a small dealership in the United States. It was at this dealership that the evolution of this car began.

The car was purchased and brought home by local Volkswagen enthousiast Rodrigo. It was here that the car was put into the automotive laboratory only to emerge as one of the most decorated Volkswagen cars on the East Coast. The car was presented in 2008 in the MKIV VR6 class at H20 International, the largest Volkswagen/Audi car show in the United States hosted at Ocean City, Maryland. It was at this event that the car managed to take home 1st place, beating some of the most well known and publicized cars.

For an automotive enthusiast, this car is the very definition of clean. The paint glistens and reflects with such a degree of detail, it is difficult to maintain a proper conversation near it without being distracted. The pristine interior was brought in from a relative in the Volkswagen line up, an R32. These upgraded full leather sport bucket seats add a fantastic level of aesthetic appeal and comfort. Other interior improvements include blue led interior accent lights and an R32 steering wheel.

A few key modifications to point out include the rare stubby side mirrors. The subtle accent provided by these mirrors is just enough to make the car appear more sleek, streamlined, and aggressive without being overbearing on the eye. There is no mistaking the presence of this car with its lowered ride height and impressive exhaust note. The badgeless grill and rear bumper provide the car clean lines across its’ entirety. That accent is accompanied by the deleted trim pieces on the exterior. This practice is known as “shaving” the car. The exterior trim pieces are removed, filled, and painted to match to make the body of the car appear more clean and fluid to the eye. It is a welcome addition to the streets of Virginia and a rare car to view.

Modifications to Rodrigos’ 2003 Volkswagen GLI

Awards won by Rodrigos 2003 Volkswagen GLI VR6
H2O International - 1st Place
VAGFAIR in York, PA - 2nd Place
Flight VW #7 - 1st place
Waterfest #14 - 4th Place