1989 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (MK2) GTI 8V

This VW Golf GTI Mk2 is a handsome and practical hot hatch hero, presented in very smart condition and with low mileage. Under the bonnet is the eight-valve 1.8-litre inline-four engine, which produces 110bhp, and drives the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer indicates just 59,940 miles from new, which appears to be fully supported by the history file.

An original UK-market five-door GTI, it was first registered on 29 September 1989, and its logbook now shows five prior registered keepers. The car is offered for sale by its current owner, who acquired it three years ago, and who has kept it garaged whenever possible, covering just 1,000 miles during this time.

Thanks to its relatively infrequent use, this GTI’s bodywork is reported to be in excellent, undamaged condition, with dent-free panels and straight factory shut lines. Fully resprayed four years ago to refresh its appearance, the deep black paintwork also presents very well with a smooth and glossy finish, with the only notable mark being a small scratch just behind the front driver’s-side wheel arch.

The signature GTI plastic body trims, including the wheel arch cladding and red-striped grille and bumpers are all in great shape, as are the light lenses, which are free of any chips or cracks. While the rubber door seals appear to be in good condition, the seller does note that the window seals would benefit from replacement, and there is some corrosion visible on the trim strips below the side windows. The car rides on a set of 14-inch steel wheels, which are in good order, and feature the correct black plastic VW centre caps.

On stepping into the cabin, you are transported back to the late 1980s, thanks to the current and previous owners’ eyes for originality. The seats, dashboard and trim all remain untouched and have fared well over the years, with no signs of significant wear to the grey tartan upholstery or black vinyl surfaces – save for some small marks on the rear driver’s-side door card. The correct black ‘golf ball’ gear knob is still fitted, and though the top of the leather gear gaiter has worn through, this is commensurate with the car’s age.

It is noted that the headlining has been replaced used VW heritage material; however the fitment could be improved around the opening for the sunroof. There are also some small blemishes on the boot carpet, but these minor issues do not detract from the impressive condition of this 31-year-old interior.

The original VW ‘Gamma’ radio/cassette player is still fitted, and the speedometer has been replaced with a new item which was sourced from Germany at a cost of £400, though the original will also be provided with the car. All of the controls, switches and electrical items work without fault; however, the seller does note that there is a slight squeaking noise from the steering wheel while turning.

Carefully maintained by specialists and driven sparingly in recent years, this Golf GTI is said to be in fine mechanical health, with its last full service being carried out in October 2019 at 58,892 miles. Prior to this, the same garage replaced the timing belt, water pump, brake pads and discs in May 2018 at 58,795 miles.

Its most recent MOT test was conducted on 1 June 2020 at 58,930 miles, which it passed first time without a single advisory. All four wheels are shod in 185/60 R14 tyres, which are in very good condition and have plenty of tread remaining.

Accompanying the car are its leather-bound document holder, instruction manuals, service history book, extended warranty information and breakdown booklets. The seller is also including a file of receipts for past services, the car’s original speedometer and two keys.

This five-door VW Golf GTI Mk2 is an eminently usable modern classic hot hatch, presented in excellent condition throughout, and benefiting from a recent respray. Given its low mileage and evidently unmolested appearance, it would no doubt be a smart addition to any collection, although it would also serve as a perfectly capable and characterful daily driver.

Summary of service history:

• 29/09/1986 Pre-delivery - 0 miles
• 08/06/1990 Main Dealer Service - 10,941 miles
• 02/01/1991 Main Dealer Service - 19,698 miles
• 12/02/1992 Main Dealer Service - 29,360 miles
• 06/07/1992 Main Dealer Service - 34,073 miles
• 30/03/1993 Main Dealer Service - 39,742 miles
• 22/03/1995 Main Dealer Service - 45,362 miles
• 04/04/1995 Main Dealer Service - 49,837 miles
• 04/09/1995 Specialist Service - 50,940 miles
• 16/06/2005 MOT Pass - 57,361 miles
• 23/06/2006 MOT Pass - 57,690 miles
• 07/06/2007 MOT Pass - 57,884 miles
• 03/06/2008 MOT Pass - 58,013 miles
• 12/06/2009 MOT Pass - 58,093 miles
• 05/06/2010 Specialist Service and MOT - 58,170 miles
• 28/07/2011 MOT Pass - 58,236 miles
• 19/07/2012 MOT Pass - 58,341 miles
• 01/05/2018 Specialist Service & MOT - 58,795 miles
• 09/05/2019 MOT Pass - 58,800 miles
• 24/10/2019 Specialist Service - 58,892 miles
• 01/06/2020 MOT Pass - 58,930 miles

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.