Almost immediately from its launch in 1974, Volkswagen’s Golf stood out as a star of the hatchback segment of the market, with the German maker virtually inventing the ‘hot hatch’ phenomenon with the introduction of the now legendary GTi.
The model’s build quality, chiseled minimalist chic, and agile performance has been in high demand ever since. The earlier versions with their cleaner lines and more simple mechanicals are now well established as youngtimer classics. You could even run one as a still-practical and nippy everyday car.
The History and Paperwork
£7000 part-restoration in 2015 including cutting out major rust and welding in new metal
2015; engine rebuilt, brakes rebuild, black plastics recoated, and wheels powder-coated
New clutch, oil pump and alternator between 2017 and 2019
2022, new H/T leads and ignition coil
£521 recently spent to rectify MoT failures, including fuel pump and fuel leak, battery and wiring fault
The Interior
Original striped cloth seats retain their colour and shape
Some wear to driver’s seat bolster
Carpets fair with good mats
Trademark Golf steering wheel and gear knob very presentable with no major scuffs
No handling wear to door handles
Vinyl and plastics remain a healthy shade of black
Door cards and attendant trim/fixtures are very straight with good details
Instrument binnacle looks smart, and switch gear looks tidy and all works
Headlining taut and presentable
The Exterior
Paintwork remains fairly presentable but untidy up close
Underlying body panels sound
Panel fit is good with narrow gaps and consistent shut lines
Rain gutters good
Beltline plastic trim is intact
Plastic panels, rear spoiler and mirrors are firmly mounted and a great feature of the car
Powder-coated window frames and rubber seals generally very healthy
Bonnet and boot panels – and edges - healthy
The Mechanics
Reliable and well-maintained 1.8-litre eight valve engine
No signs of leaks
Hoses and H/T leads look healthy
Braided steel fuel lines
Very solid and dry boot compartment
Appears solid underneath
Door bottoms and sills good
Original (recoated) alloys
Summary
This is an honest and very solid example of a car that’s become a legend in the industry. It would be very usable as is – certainly as a starter classic – or it could be refreshed and refurbished and brought back to its former understated glory.
It’s present owner has always been determined to keep it running in good order, firstly with an initial part restoration and then with ongoing maintenance. It’s up the next owner to decide how far they want to take it, but they are starting with a very solid and attractive base.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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More about buying with us
1983 Volkswagen Golf MK1 GTI LHD
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