Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk. 1

The Golf GTi was more an evolution than a revolution. Its mechanics were that of the ordinary Golf, however the power was to come from a more sporty Audi-designed 1.6 litre engine.

Other improvements over the standard Golf were to include stiffer springs, bigger wheels and front disc brakes, closer gear ratios and a lower ride height - all the ingredients needed to make a hot hatch.

The 1.6 litre twin-carburettor engine developed 100 bhp, which was soon upgraded with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection increasing power to 110 bhp.

Combined with 5-speed transmission, (replaced the 4-speeder in 1981), it could do 0-100 km/h in around 9 seconds. In 1982, the engine was stroked-out to 1.8 litres, which gave a slight power rise of 2 hp and 13 lbft.