The beginning
Before starting to talk about the main character of the article, it is important to understand where he came from. And its predecessor – the first generation “Golf”, which began production in 1974. Although these cars are familiar to us now, at the time it was a revolutionary model, with which Volkswagen introduced a new type of body and, in general, an unprecedented standard for compact hatchbacks.
The car quickly became popular in many markets due to its practicality, economy and driving dynamics. He also received several design awards. Because the body was created by the well-known car designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, thanks to whom the world also enjoys the Lexus GS, the Lotus Esprit and the 1961 Maserati 5000 GT.
“Golf 2“
The first appearance of the second generation “Golf” took place in 1983. Compared to its predecessor, the car was awarded with more powerful engines, more interior space and better safety features. And along with the updated design came new technologies.
Design
The second generation Golf was built on the basis of the first generation. But this time, Herbert Schafer was commissioned to create the design. This is a German designer who created such legendary models as Corrado, Scirocco and many others.
During the creation of the second generation of the Golf, H. Schafer tried to keep the classic silhouette of a hatchback, but at the same time make the car both more capacious and more aerodynamic. And inside, ergonomics were improved and better quality materials were installed, which made the car even more attractive to buyers.
Engines and versions
“Volkswagen Golf 2” is one of the cars that offered the market perhaps the maximum choice of engines. At least back then. From economical diesels to so-called “pocket rockets. Those looking for economy could choose from 1.6 l diesels, whose power ranged from 54 to 80 hp or weak, 1.3 l gasolines. And in total, 1, 1.3, 1.6 and 1.8 l working volume engines could be found in the range, which generated from 45 to 160 hp.
The weakest version had a 1-liter gasoline engine generating just 45 hp. This model was rare both then and now.
Golf 2 with 1.6 l diesel and 1.8 l gasoline engines were among the most common choices of buyers. These mods can still be found today Autoplius.lt in the portal.
The version loved by Volkswagen model enthusiasts is the GTI. In the not-yet-updated model, the GTI version can have a 1.8-liter 8V engine with 107 hp, a 1.8-liter 8V engine with 112 hp, or a 1.8-liter 16V engine with 139 hp. Meanwhile, in the updated model you will find the same engine, only in the 16V version, the latter has a little less – 129 hp.
There is one more, extremely interesting version, which used to be seen more often, and is now almost unheard of on the roads, produced only in 1990-1991, which is called “Volkswagen Golf Country”. This version had the only 1.8-liter gasoline engine with 98 hp.
However, the body of the car has been raised, all the drive wheels have been removed, and the body has been fitted with additional protective bars at the front, large fog lights and even a spare wheel mounted on the trunk. Just like a real SUV. And the passability of the model is really good. The old Syncro all-wheel drive system was a great solution.
Well, the rarest version is called Volkswagen Golf 2 GTI G60 Rallye. This is a model sold in an edition of only 5,000 units. Under the hood of the model, you can find the same 1.8 l engine, only this time generating 160 hp. Of course, this version of the Golf was all-wheel drive and was rewarded with the exclusive design trim that Golf enthusiasts still pay big bucks for today.
Security
Along with body and engine updates, additional safety features have appeared. With the second generation of the Golf, Volkswagen began to install an anti-lock braking system (ABS) in the cars, which ensured the ability to control the car during sudden braking.
The body structure was also improved and strengthened, which led to better results in safety ratings. Engine improvements have also appeared. One such is electronic fuel injection. And when choosing a new car, Volkswagen began to offer additional equipment, such as an enhanced sound system. Over the years – and electrically operated windows.
Global success
Both the first and second generations of the Volkswagen Golf achieved world-class success. It became popular among young families, the working class, and car enthusiasts.
It was an affordable, roomy and reliable car. And the Golf GTI version has become a convenient platform for motorsport enthusiasts who want to easily prepare a car for amateur racing.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Golf has been an icon and one of the leaders in the hatchback segment since its inception. And the second generation of the model was undoubtedly one of those that allowed the manufacturer to step into unexplored areas. By 1991, more than 6 million second-generation Golf models had been sold, and
is sold not only in America and Western Europe, but also in China. After the fall of the Berlin Wall – and in Eastern Europe. It was after the reunification of East and West Germany that, at the age of 35, one such Golf was driven by none other than the future Chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel.
“Golf 2” is a model that has undoubtedly entered the history of cars and is now becoming a modern classic. So, if you ever accidentally get your hands on a rare second-generation Golf, think about whether it’s sometimes worth keeping it for a longer period of time.
