Description
The Volkswagen Golf GTI was a pioneering hot hatch when it first went on sale in 1976. Nimble, practical and fast, it initially featured a 1588cc four-cylinder engine that produced 108bhp, but in 1982 it was enlarged to 1781cc.
The Mk2 Golf was introduced the following year and was wider and longer than its predecessor, freeing up more room inside. Its aerodynamics were improved, too, thanks to its softer, smoother styling.
The Mk2 GTI carried over the 1781cc engine from the Mk1, but from 1986 onwards, there was the option of a twin-cam, 16-valve model that produced 137bhp. This was the king of hot hatches in the late 1980s and into the 1990s, and proved to be a high-water mark for the entire Golf GTI dynasty.
The 16-valve Mk2 being offered for sale here was first registered on 22 August 1990 and was kept by its previous owner for 30 years. In late 1995, he started to look at ways to improve its performance and entrusted the car to GTI Engineering in Brackley. They carried out one of their engine conversions, which included fitting a new crankshaft amongst much other specialist engine work; Mahle pistons were fitted, the cylinder head was gas-flowed, and the fuel-injection system was recalibrated. Schrick camshafts were installed, but the owner opted to make them slightly ‘softer’ than the ones usually fitted during this conversion in order to make it more tractable. The end result of this engine work was a power output of 190bhp, and the specification also included chassis upgrades such as lower Eibach springs and adjustable Koni dampers. In this form, the immaculately prepared Golf was featured in two magazine articles, both of which are included in its history file.
The current owner bought the VW in 2022 and converted it into regularity spec for use in Historic Rally Car Register events. The subframe was replaced as part of that work, which included refreshing the engine, fitting EVO suspension with Polybushes throughout, an engine-bay brace and a sump guard. Inside, there is a half roll-cage and fire extinguisher, plus a full set of Brantz tripmeters and clocks, with a remote switch.
Once finished, the Golf was used on the Tour of Cheshire in 2023 and 2024, as well the North Yorkshire Classic Rally. It comes with a set of steel wheels, and not only is it eligible for a number of historic events, it could easily be converted back into road spec.
Fastidiously maintained by its current owner and serviced after each event regardless of how many miles it had covered, it makes for a quick, reliable and versatile choice of rally car.
The car is currently with Rally Preparation Services sister Company, the RPS storage facility and available for inspection.
All viewings and test drives welcomed by appointment at Rally Preparation Services.
All enquiries please contact us on using the button below or telephone +44(0)the details below
