is the near side rear wheel slightly closer to the arch than the off side? I can only think this is due to the fuel filler neck? Never bumped my car or anything but just wondered as my mates lupo seems to have this same thing too.
I think it's just poor build quality from the factory. Build tolerances were shite back in the day. It's not uncommon to find big variations in wheelbase too.
My mk2 is the opposite of yours, where the offside tyre is nearer the arch. When I remove my rear axle I'm gonna adjust the axle mounting brackets to try and centralise it.
15+ years of driving over bumpy roads etc.... axle is unlikely to be perfectly straight and aligned.
Both good points to be honest. I mean I'm talking no more than maybe 5mm really as the nearside tyre catches ever so slightly with a bit weight in the car so as you've both highlighted 5mm here or there either from the factory or over time is very possible. Nick mentioned to me the possible rear leaning we often see on mk3's being part of this although mine doesn't lean unevenly believe it or not Unlike many I have seen that do! haha.