This first-generation Golf GTI is a painful reminder of this. In around 2009 my shortlist for a characterful, fun car was narrowing, and a Mk1 Golf GTI was one of the few remaining candidates.

With a kerb weight of just 810kg, the GTI could get to 60mph in 9 seconds. Top speed was 110mph. Available only as a three-door, the Golf GTI went on sale in Germany in June 1976. A handful of ...

Lest we forget about the Golf GTI. One of the hot ... overall shapes, and interior designs. The final design of the Golf was known as the Type 17. The Golf Mk1 went into production in March ...