Volkswagen Golf GTi Mk. I, 1983

Chassis No.: 17ZDW291116

Engine No.: DX034400

Registration: CLJ 147Y

Sold £21,560 | Sold

Launched in 1974, the Golf represented a complete break with Volkswagen tradition, yet it would prove as big a sales success as its Beetle predecessor. In GTi form the Golf has become one of the great icons of modern motoring, giving rise to an entirely new class of sporting saloon - the 'hot hatch' - in the process. First seen at the Frankfurt Show in September 1975, the GTi came with a 1.6 litre, fuel-injected, 110bhp engine which, in a car weighing a mere 846 kilos (1,861lbs) resulted in a performance package of a type not seen since the demise of the Mini Cooper 1275 S.

Increasing competition from rival manufacturers prompted the introduction of a 1.8 litre GTi in 1982, and although maximum power increased only slightly to 114bhp there was a considerable improvement in mid-range acceleration. This example of the iconic Mk. I Golf GTi was first registered on 4th February 1983 and supplied with the Volkswagen Classic Parts build certificate. Presented in its original colour black with matching trim, the incredible restoration is frankly better than when the car was supplied new, and the car still holds the registration number etched into side windows.

Within the history file are significant amounts of invoices for restoration work that has taken place including invoices for the parts fitted including items such as set of period correct Pirelli Cinturato tyres and matching refurbished spare wheel with brand new matching Pirelli tyre, all new braided/zinced fuel lines, top tint windscreen, full carpet set and Zircotec coated inlet manifold, new window seals, correct Sachs suspension and brakes. The engine was subject to a full rebuild including new water pump and cambelt with again photos of work completed.

Inside, is a period correct Blaupunkt cassette player discretely modified for Bluetooth connectivity which complements an unmolested and as original as they come example which we are told runs, drives and performs superbly with two sets of keys and all locks on matching key.

A new MoT test certificate until July 2024 is included and as our owner asked for a full comprehensive inspection at this time the lack of exhaust heat shields was highlighted which have now been sourced and fitted, other advisories were the front ball joint rubber seals could need replacing, a slight coolant weep and near side wheel bearing, subsequently both front ball joints have been replaced, new heater control valve fitted (coolant leak) and wheel bearing now adjusted so the car is perfect, befitting of a multiple show winning example.

Accolades include multiple concourse and show and shine winners in recent years with trophies at events such as VW Festival, Deva Dubs and Rods, VW Breakout and Back 2 Basics for which the trophies are included in the sale. A fully restored original example that is possibly one of the best examples in the UK today.

https://www.historics.co.uk/auction/lot/?lot=3780&au=73