Mk1 Golf Cabriolets are exactly the same as the Mk1 hatchbacks under the bonnet, so you’re looking for the same potential problems, as well as proof that it’s been regularly serviced. Oil and filter changes should have been carried out every 5000 miles and a cambelt change every 40,000 miles or four years (whichever comes first).
Full Answer
Is the VW Golf Mk1 a good buy?
The Mk1 Golf is one of the coolest cars you can buy and for many its the ultimate water-cooled retro toy. There is more to grabbing a good one than a quick mouse click on eBay though, so here’s our VW Golf Mk1 Buying Guide to help sort the nuggets from the nails.
How much is a GTI Mk1 worth?
For purists seeking the source of the GTI legend, nothing less than the earliest MK1 with four-speed manual gearbox will do. They are exceedingly rare and if you can find one, as you can see in the Hagerty price Guide a car in excellent condition will be upwards of £20,000, with the best in the world nearly touching £30,000.
What is the engine capacity of the Volkswagen Golf Mk1?
The Golf Mk1 came with a number of engine capacity options. 1.1, 1.3, 1.5, 1.6 and 1.8-litre petrol and 1.5 and 1.6 diesel including a 1.6 turbo diesel. Whilst most enthusiasts shopping for a Mk1 will have their hearts set on a 1600cc or 1800cc GTI model there is still plenty to be said for the other capacities on offer.
How can you tell the difference between a golf and GTI?
The Wheel arches : Rust is very common on the wheel arches of the Golf and on the GTI this is hidden very well by the black wheel arch spats. The key areas to look at are the rear arches to see if there is any rust ahead of them.
Is the Mk1 Golf reliable?
First introduced to the local market in the mid-1980s, the Golf enjoyed overwhelming success in South Africa and won the hearts of many with its reliability, and overall affordability. Just about everyone has driven a Golf Mk1 in his or her lifetime.
What year Golf is most reliable?
Model years 2013 and 2014 proved to be a bit more reliable, yet there were still numerous reports of 2014 VW GTI reliability problems. In fact, the GTI has had 3 generations, generation 6 (2009-2014) being the least reliable. The stories of VW Golf GTI Mk6 problems were widespread.
How much horsepower does a Mk1 Golf have?
This resulted in an engine that produced 110 PS (108 hp; 81 kW) at 6,100 rpm and 140 N⋅m (103 lbf⋅ft) at 5,000 rpm.
What is the fastest Mk1 Golf?
The company most recently made headlines when its Mk1 Golf project, known as 16Vampir, set an incredible time of 8,20 sec at 273,45 km/h over the quarter-mile. The time was recorded at Public Race Days 2019 event held at the Hockenheimring racetrack in Germany.
Which Golf engine is best?
The best of the Golf's petrol engines is the 1.5-litre TSI, delivering a fine blend of power and economy. It's genuinely impressive, with a keenness to rev that helps it to feel livelier than its fuel economy would suggest.
Which Golf generation is best?
Here Are The Best And Worst Volkswagen Golf GTI Models Over The Years4 Worst: 1993-1999 Golf GTI Mk 3.5 Best: 2009-2013 Golf GTI Mk 6. ... 6 Best: 2000-2006 Golf GTI Mk 4. ... 7 Best: 2015-present Golf GTI Mk 7. ... 8 Best: 2007-2009 Golf GTI Mk 5. ... 9 Best: 1985-1992 Golf GTI Mk 2. ... 10 Best: 1983-1984 Rabbit GTI Mk 1. ... More items...•
How fast is Mk1?
Top speed is rated at over 198 mph (320 km/h) and Boba Kettler says the Golf is able to accelerate from 62 to 124 mph (100 - 200 km/h) in just five seconds.
What does Mk1 mean?
Mark I or Mark 1 often refers to the first version of a weapon or military vehicle, and is sometimes used in a similar fashion in civilian product development.
What does GTI stand for?
Grand Touring InjectionWhat does Volkswagen GTI stand for? GTI stands for Grand Touring Injection. Volkswagen uses for its direct fuel injection system. Over 40 years ago, GTI technology was first deployed in the 1976 Volkswagen Golf GTI.
When was the last Mk1 Golf made?
August 2009Volkswagen Citi GolfAlso calledVolkswagen Golf Mk1Production1984 – August 2009AssemblyUitenhage, South AfricaBody and chassis9 more rows
What year is a Mk1 Golf?
1974First generation (Mk1/A1, Typ 17; 1974) In May 1974, Volkswagen presented the first-generation Golf as a modern front-wheel-drive, long-range replacement for the Volkswagen Beetle.
What is a city golf?
This model, sold as the City Golf, was offered in Canada for a short period of time and combined the body of the Mk4 Golf with some of the styling of the fifth-generation car that sold as the Rabbit in Canada and in the US, resulting in a Golf that might seem a little odd to American eyes.
Which VW most reliable?
Out of all VW models, the Volkswagen Golf is said to be one of the most reliable and a great all-round car for drivers who are looking for comfort, convenience and long term reliability.
Is Volkswagen Golf a reliable car?
Is the Volkswagen Golf Reliable? The 2021 VW Golf has a predicted reliability score of 73 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
How many miles will a Volkswagen Golf last?
Let's get started! Volkswagen cars typically last 100,000 to 150,000 miles or more if serviced and well maintained. Thus, VWs you buy today usually last longer than 10-year old models. However, like most vehicles, the VW Golf requires regular maintenance to achieve the high-mile mark.
Is MK7 Golf reliable?
The MK7 GTI has been one of the most reliable iterations of the GTI that Volkswagen has put out. They are reliable, quick, very receptive to tuning and just overall great vehicles.
What does the interior of a Golf Mk1 reveal?
Besides the general state of the bodywork, the condition of the interior will reveal a lot about mileage, originality and how well the car’s been looked after. Early trim is horribly hard to find these days, and massively prone to tearing.
What are the parts of a Mk1 golf?
Mk1 Golf parts are generally affordable and easy to get hold of so there’s little to worry about here for potential buyers. Starting with the suspension; springs can snap and the top mounts, both front and rear can wear, producing a nasty knock when you mount a lowered kerb or hit a pothole.
What size wheels are used on Mk1 golf?
The majority of models will have been supplied with 13" steel wheels either in 5" or 5.5" width. Series 1 GTI models typically came with 5.5 x 13" steel wheels, whilst the Series 2 cars featured the 'Tarrantula' alloy wheels in the same dimension. It was only the runout GTI models that originally had 6x14" Pirelli P-slots. Naturally many Mk1 Golfs have acquired alternative wheels over the years. 15" G60 steel wheels are a popular choice, as are any of the BBS back catalogue. Aftermarket wheels can cause problems when lowering the car, especially if you don't fit coilovers (which have a much thinner body than the original struts) so do some extra checks before shelling out on your dream set of split rims.
What size disc brakes are used on a Golf Mk1?
With your head programmed to driving an older car, the brakes aren't terrible for day to day use. Almost all models had 239mm diameter discs on the front, the smaller engine models had solid discs either 10mm or 12mm thick and the GTI models were vented, measuring 20mm thick. Even the GTIs had rear drum brakes from the factory, although it's not uncommon to find a fast road car that has been upgraded with Mk2 GTI rear brakes. When it comes to driving the Golf Mk1 quickly, the RHD cars suffer a lack of pedal feel due to the connection rods between the driver's foot and the master cylinder on the passenger side. This sadly was the VW workaround when they launched the car in the UK, luckily LHD vehicles don't suffer from this as the driver sits directly behind the master cylinder. Larger brake master cylinders and servos are a popular modification for track day drivers, just be sure to adjust the rear balance valve, otherwise, you could find yourself facing the wrong way on the apex!
What transmission does a Golf Mk1 have?
Golf Mk1 Gearbox options. Most first-generation Golfs have a manual transmission, with 4 speed being the default up until August '79 when a 5 speed was fitted to all big block petrol and turbo diesel models. Whilst fairly uncommon in the UK, a 3-speed automatic was also offered for those who wanted it.
How many cc is a 1982 GTI?
GTI models up to 1982 were 1600 cc, with 82-84 models boasting an 1800cc 8v engine. The last of the GTI's are known as Campaign Editions and carry an extra premium. The Mk1 Golf Owners Club explain in detail here how to spot these cars from the 'normal' GTI models. You can read more about the white GTI example here .
What is the engine capacity of a Golf Mk1?
The Golf Mk1 came with a number of engine capacity options. 1.1, 1.3, 1.5, 1.6 and 1.8-litre petrol and 1.5 and 1.6 diesel including a 1.6 turbo diesel. Whilst most enthusiasts shopping for a Mk1 will have their hearts set on a 1600cc or 1800cc GTI model there is still plenty to be said for the other capacities on offer. The lowly 1.1-litre engine produces around 50bhp but can still be a lively car to drive once up to speed. Sadly, once your momentum has been lost, acceleration is pretty slow. However, that does make the 'small block' 1.1 and the 1.3 insurance friendly for the younger motorist, not to mention it sips fuel rather than guzzles it, making first job wages last a little longer in the tank. The 1.5 and 1.6 litre 'big block' carburettor models offered a more comfortable 70-75 bhp, but it was the range-topping 1.6 GTI with 110bhp and the 1.8-litre GTI offering 112bhp that understandably caused a stir with journalists and drivers alike when launched. Should you find a diesel model do not expect refinement or speed! They are noisy, but frugal when it comes to fuel. Power ranges from 50bhp to a useful 70bhp for the turbo-diesel model.
Engine
Power in the Volkswagen Golf Mk1 Cabriolet comes from precisely the same source as the hatch so there’s little to worry about if there’s proof of regular servicing. On most models, oil and filter changes should have been carried out every 5000 miles and a cambelt change every 40,000 miles or four years (which ever comes first).
Running gear
Begin by checking the suspension springs – the extra weight means that a cabriolet’s rear set in particular are more likely to snap than those on the hatchback. The same goes for tyre wear at the front, so check your tread depths – it’s a point to haggle over if nothing else.
Bodywork
The hatchbacks and cabriolets are near enough identical when it comes to their mechanicals, but the Karmann-designed bodies differ vastly from the tin-tops. With no roof, a number of extra body strengthening sections are needed to make up for the loss in rigidity – namely an extra crossmember, deeper sills and a rollover hoop.
Volkswagen Golf Mk1 Cabriolet hood
The hood on the Golf should fit well and be free from serious shrinkage so check it carefully – you’re looking for any cracks, rips, discolouration and missing or worn rubbers, which could result in leaks. It’s a bad sign if the carpets are damp, or there’s a musty smell inside.
Interior and trim
There shouldn’t be too many nightmares inside a Mk1 Cabriolet as VW cabins from this era are generally sparse but hard-wearing. But even if you do come across a dog-eared example (and still fancy its restoration prospects) pretty much all the trim you’ll need is readily available and shouldn’t prove a headache to an experienced trimmer.
Volkswagen Golf Mk1 Cabriolet: our verdict
We still uphold that the early Golf Cabriolet is undervalued. A cheap car might need a new hood, refreshed suspension and a few other bits but because everything’s still available – and not that expensive – you will be able to do it yourself for not much money.
When did the Mk1 Golf GTI come out?
The Mk1 Golf GTI first arrived in around 1976 and featured the 1.6 engine, smaller rear lights, a plain but functional dashboard and rather garish tartan interior trim. Very quickly a 5-speed box arrived on the scene too. These cars were available between 1976 and 1980.
How many miles does an Mk1 have?
The engines are very strong, but most mk1s will have done over 100,000 miles by now and that will usually spell a tired engine. The 1800 engine block is generally not a problem, with the exception of the piston rings, as must of the wear tends to be in the head.
What was the original GTI 1800?
Many argue that the original Golf GTI is the original 4-speed 1.6 and they have a point, unfortunately there are virtually none of these cars left.
What is the exhaust on a Mk1 GTI?
The standard exhaust on a mk1 GTI is a rather plain looking mild steel affair. Many Golfs have had sports exhausts fitted. They are easily removed if required and are a matter of taste to owners. The aftermarket exhausts tend to be a lot heavier and a number of Golf suffer from broken hanging clips as a result.
What to look for when rusting a car?
The key areas to look at are the rear arches to see if there is any rust ahead of them. If there is rust here check to see if it has gone underneath the car as it could affect the rear suspension mountings which is a very difficult job to fix. Front arches are part of the front wings and easier to fix.
Where is the fuse box on a Mk1?
ELECTRICS AND TRIM. Electrics can be the bane of Mk1 ownership. The fuse box is located underneath the dashboard on the passenger side, in exactly the right place to get dripped on if the windscreen develops a leak.
Can rust be found on golf cars?
Good Luck! RUST. Rust can strike pretty much anywhere on the cars and the condition of the bodywork, is the area you must pay most attention to on the Golf. The cars were never galvanised and the boxy shape has numerous places where mud and water can hide and start rotting the fabric of the car away.
