Description
1988 VW Golf Mk2 GTI 16V – Helios Blue – Original Paintwork – Extensive History
A genuine hot hatch legend in terrific running order, with 24 years of careful ownership and a wealth of history.
I'm selling my much-loved 1988 Volkswagen Golf Mk2 GTI 16 valve, finished in beautiful Helios Blue. I've owned and enjoyed this car for 24 years, and it has been a real pleasure to drive and look after.
The Mk2 Golf GTI 16V is one of the truly iconic hot hatches of the 1980s. With its spirited 16-valve engine, superb handling and distinctive styling, it helped define a generation of performance cars. Good, unmodified examples are becoming increasingly hard to find, particularly those that haven't been extensively restored.
My Golf still wears its original Helios Blue paintwork, which remains in good condition, and retains the distinctive red stripe running all the way round the car, from the days before VW introduced the later 'big bumper' models.
Specification
1. 8-litre 16-valve GTI engine
Power steering
Central locking
Electric windows
Sunroof
Wolfrace alloy wheels
Two original keys
Condition and Maintenance
The car is in excellent running order and has been driven with care throughout my ownership. As a retired engineer, I've always taken a personal interest in its upkeep, carrying out smaller maintenance jobs myself and ensuring it receives the attention it deserves.
This is not a restored or rebuilt car, but an honest, well-preserved classic that has been properly maintained throughout its life. It retains the character and authenticity that make these early GTIs so appealing.
It has a new MOT from August 2026 and passed its emissions test with ease (photograph included).
Recent work includes fitting a new radiator and rebuilding the gear shift mechanism.
Extensive History and Documentation
One of the particularly pleasing things about this Golf is the substantial history that accompanies it.
I have an A4 box file containing:
26 years of service and maintenance history, including numerous bills for parts and servicing dating back to 1998
Previous MOT certificates
Original tax discs
Receipts for replacement parts and work carried out
Original VW Owner's Instruction Manual
Service & Repair Manual
Owner's Workshop Manual
Photographs of the paperwork and manuals are included, giving a good indication of how much documentation has been carefully retained over the years.
A Very Special Classic
After 24 years, this Golf has become a real part of my life. I've taken great satisfaction in keeping it in good order and preserving its originality, while continuing to enjoy everything that makes the GTI 16V such a rewarding car to drive.
It's now time for someone else to enjoy it, and I'd particularly like it to go to an enthusiast who appreciates its history, individuality and unmistakable 1980s character.
A genuine, cherished example of an increasingly sought-after modern classic, with original paintwork, two original keys and an excellent history file.
Please phone or text after 2pm if you'd like further information or to arrange a viewing.
Sensible offers considered.
