Hot hatches were popularized by the GTI. After a short drive in this car, it’s clear why.
It is becoming increasingly difficult to find a clean example of the first-generation Volkswagen GTI, especially considering that the oldest examples in Europe have been on the road for over 40 years. New video shows that it is worth the effort to find a great example of the first-generation Volkswagen GTI. The original hot hatch segment’s progenitor still looks incredible to drive.
YouTube doesn’t give a year of this GTI’s model, but it is a later example due to the 1.8-liter engine. This is in contrast to the 1.6-liter unit from the earlier models. Even though the powerplant is smaller in horsepower (82 kilowatts), and torque of 103 pound-feet (170 Newton-meters), it still drives the hatchback. The exhaust emits a wonderful burble when the foot touches the accelerator.
The film was shot on the Austrian Worthersee lake shores. It creates a beautiful setting for a first-person cruise aboard this classic hot hatch. The driver isn’t too pushy and just enjoys the ride. It is easy to believe that you are actually driving the car – even if the gloves are not on.
Since its first generation, the GTI’s performance is a lot better than it was in previous generations. The Golf GTI TCR Concept was unveiled by VW at the Worthersee Treffen. It is the fastest model of the GTI ever to be released from the factory. A turbocharged 2.0-liter turbocharged engine of 286 horsepower (213 kW) produces the hatch at 164 mph (264 km/h). The engine also produces 273 lb/ft (370 Nm) The front wheels are turned by a seven-speed dual-clutch auto. The European production version should be available before the end the year. Although the TCR is faster than the original GTI, it is hard to imagine it being more fun to drive than the GTI.