VW Golf Mk1 – 1974-2009
The Volkswagen Golf Mk1 – begun in South Africa 25 years ago, spread world wide by VW lovers – has seen the end of its production run in 2009. The Golf is dead – LONG LIVE THE GOLF! Over 500,000 Golf Mk1’s have been produced since the 70’s – each one as groovy as its predecessor.
More well known around the world as the less-expensive Mk2 – the Mk1 moniker came into creation when a world-wide gasoline crisis plagued people like SEPTA’s strike does the city of Philadelphia. Golf Mk1 was a “cheaper entry-level product” but quickly grew with spin-offs like “Econo Golf” and “CitiGolf.” These models gave way for more compact/economy class ideas – ie: Rabbit and Jetta.
Golf Mk1’s original engine was a tiny, 70 horse power 1.5 liter 4-banger. Displacements ranged from 1.1 to 1.8, with both gasoline & diesel options – future transmission choices included four & five-speed manuals as well as a three-speed automatic. One of the main reasons Mk1 was so hard to find outside of Africa was its “deathtrap” safety status. A single steering-hub-mounted driver’s side airbag was added later in its life, as other safety features were nonexistent. We will remember you fondly, Mk1 – may a flock of angels since thee to thy grace.
Nov 20th, 2009 at 10:56 pm
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