1981 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (MK1) GTI

This Volkswagen Golf Mk1 GTI is a smart example of the archetypal classic hot hatch, finished in a lesser-seen factory colour. Under the bonnet is the 1.6-litre inline-four, producing around 110hp, coupled to a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows 139,541 km.

First registered in 1981, this ‘interim’ model retains the 1.6-litre engine of the earliest cars, while benefiting from the five-speed gearbox. The vendor has owned the car for the last six months.

There is no obvious evidence of any prior accident damage to the car, and all of the panels are believed to be entirely original. Finished in the rare Inari Silver metallic hue, this has been repainted in the past, but it still presents very well today, showing only some minor blemishes. There is a small light scratch on the front end, plus some small stone chips commensurate with careful road use. It wears the correct 14-inch ATS alloy wheels, which are in generally good order.

Its interior is a wonderful throwback to the 1980s, with the seats trimmed in black vinyl for the backings, and a combination of black and red fabric for the facings - accented by a pinstripe pattern. The dashboard is original, and even the 1980s radio is still in place, though the LCD clock has damaged pixels. Its sunroof opens and closes as it should, and the headlining still presents well. The steering wheel is original and correct, as is the iconic dimpled ‘golf ball’ gear knob. The only modification is that the rear parcel shelf has been fitted with aftermarket speakers.

Mechanically, this Golf GTI is reported to be in very good order. Its last scheduled maintenance was in November 2020 at 139,000 km, at Officina Motors and Passion in Italy. The engine oil and filter were replaced, along with the coolant and brake fluid. Its radiator was also refurbished, and the drive belts were renewed. The previous owner is understood to have been an enthusiast collector, who kept the car well maintained.

This VW Golf GTI Mk1 is a highly original example of the iconic ‘hot hatch’, which set the template for a raft of performance-focused daily drivers that followed over the next decade or two. Coupling a peppy 110hp naturally aspirated engine with front-wheel drive and a manual transmission, this GTI is a wonderfully analogue machine to experience on the road, and is sure to bring a big smile to its next owner’s face whenever they get behind the wheel.

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