Volkswagen Golf 1980–1993 car dimensions: 3815 mm long, 1630 mm wide and 1395 mm high. Unladen weight is 840 kg. Braked towing is 1,200 kg.
The cabin has ergonomically shaped sports seats in tartan cloth and a golf ball gear knob. Black headliner, sun visors and carpets are standard. A three-speed blower mixes heat and ventilation. Three-point automatic seat belts came in 1980 along with a five-speed gearbox. No electronic driver aids appear in period equipment lists.
Boot space is 320 litres with seats up. The rear bench folds to give 870 litres to the roof.
Towing capacity is 1200 kg braked and 400 kg unbraked. Payload is 420 kg. The GTI uses firmer, lower suspension with front and rear stabilisers for reduced body roll.
The cabin has ergonomically shaped sports seats in tartan pattern that give good side support for fast drives. Headliner, sun visors and carpets are deep black. A three-speed blower mixes heat and ventilation. Steel sunroof is available to order. Gear lever is golf-ball shaped. Driver legroom is generous.
Low fuel consumption with light base weight.
Three-point automatic seat belts standard from 1980.
More stable brake system from 1980.
Sporty five-speed gearbox standard from 1980.
Ventilated front disc brakes.
The GTI offers low fuel consumption thanks to its light weight of around 810 kg and efficient injection engine. Steady speed figures from period tests show strong economy potential for the class.
From 1980 the model gains three-point automatic seat belts and a more stable brake system. Front seats are secure with head restraints. Interior is well padded. Doors are crashproof. Laminated windscreen is fitted. Rear belts are basic.
Keeping the car means watching for rust, especially on early examples with less factory protection. Engines last well over high mileages if maintained. Cambelt attention is needed periodically. Suspension and brakes are straightforward to service. Parts support remains strong through enthusiast networks.
Length 3815 mm, Width 1630 mm, Height 1395 mm, Wheelbase 2400 mm (Golf 1980–1993)
Sources: manufacturer data, encycarpedia.com 1982-83 Golf GTI, Volkswagen Newsroom.