1989 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (MK2) GTI 8V

This Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk2 is a fine example of the iconic hot hatch, finished in a smart colour scheme and benefitting from a number of subtle performance modifications. On opening the bonnet, you are met by the 1.8-litre eight-valve inline-four, which produces around 110bhp and drives the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer displays just 49,934 miles from new.

First registered in October 1989, this right-hand drive ‘big bumper’ GTI was used sparingly and kept in dry storage for many years, covering only 19,000 miles between 2010 and 2021. The seller acquired the car four years ago.

Today, the car’s bodywork is in very good order, with no evidence of any prior accident damage. The vendor also states that it is free of any rust or paint bubbling, after corrosion close to the front jacking points was repaired in 2017. The black paintwork is in great shape, with a smooth and glossy appearance around the car, and only a few minor blemishes including stone chips to the nose and bonnet. Bidders should note that the exhaust appears to have dropped slightly in the photos, but the vendor has since secured it correctly.

The exterior trim presents well, and while the lower front grille strip and the small section of plastic trim behind the front passenger-side wheel arch are missing, the vendor has said that they can source these easily from VW Heritage. While many GTIs have fallen victim to excessive modification, this example’s exterior is almost entirely standard, save for its smoked rear tail lights and 15-inch BBS RZ alloy wheels, which are in excellent condition. A pair of used but original tail light lenses will also be supplied as part of the sale.

Moving inside, the cabin is clad in grey chequered ‘Ultraviolet’ cloth, which is very smart and has only a few age-related marks, including minor wear on the driver’s seat and scuffs on the rear passenger-side door card. Elsewhere, the plastic trim presents well, though there are some small holes drilled above the driver’s right-hand air vent and on the passenger-side of the centre console.

Entertainment is provided via a modern Alpine stereo head unit with Bluetooth and USB connectivity, while a Kenwood CD changer is mounted in the boot. The vendor notes that the driver’s-side electric window switch is temperamental, despite the switch itself having been replaced by an item from VW Heritage. Otherwise, all of the car’s buttons and electrical items work as they should, and there are no warning lights displayed on its dashboard.

This classic hot hatch’s most recent routine maintenance was carried out in March 2021 by R.S Automotive. In addition to an oil change, this also included replacement of the spark plugs, HT leads, top and bottom injector seals and the paper throttle body gasket. While it is noted that there is some slight play in the steering wheel when turning right, the vendor will aim to have this corrected before handover to the next owner.

This Golf has been enhanced by a number of performance modifications. In the engine bay, these include the fitment of Kent camshafts, a Stage 3 cylinder head and a K&N induction kit, while the car is also fitted with a later gearbox with a hydraulic clutch. Its roadholding abilities have also been improved thanks to uprated Eibach anti-roll bars, polyurethane suspension bushes and front and rear strut braces. A Supersprint stainless steel exhaust system has also been installed.

The car’s latest MOT test was conducted on 6 March 2021 at 49,923 miles, resulting in a first-time pass with no advisories. Its front wheels are shod in a pair of Marshal MU12 tyres, which have covered less than five miles since they were fitted, and Kumho Ecsta HS51 items are fitted at the rear, which have ample usable tread remaining.

This 1980s hot hatch will be accompanied by its original owner’s manual, service book and document wallet. The seller is also supplying paperwork detailing its maintenance and modifications, which were carried out during the previous keeper’s ownership.

This Volkswagen Golf Mk2 GTI is a low-mileage example of the iconic hot hatch, which is presented in impressive condition throughout and has been enhanced by a few carefully selected upgrades. Freshly serviced and offering greater practicality thanks to its five-door configuration, this GTI will make a fine addition to any collection, but would also serve as a capable daily driver for a discerning enthusiast.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered 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.