VW's second-generation GTI was larger and around 120kg heavier than the Mk1, and started life with a revised version of the Mk1's 1.8-litre 112hp four-cylinder engine. As a result, performance wasn't exactly scintillating. But that didn't stop UK buyers from lapping up the cuddly-shaped Mk2 GTI, with 25,000 cars alone sold by the end of 1985 - the year a facelifted model appeared with double headlights and twin exhausts.
Over 80,000 Mk2s were sold in Britain
The emergence of more powerful rivals forced VW to fit a punchier 139hp 16-valve motor, capable of propelling the GTI to 130mph and cutting the 0-60mph time to 7.9 seconds. Distinguished by discreet red and black '16V' badges both front and rear, GTI sales continued to boom with 75,000 UK cars sold by the time facelifted 'big-bumper' models appeared in 1989.
To appeal to those seeking yet greater performance VW launched an even more powerful 160hp supercharged G60 model in 1990, and an uprated 210hp G60 Limited Edition Golf GTI in 1991. These were pricey models though, and most buyers seemed more than happy with a standard GTI - by 1992 VW UK had sold a staggering 80,307 Mk2 examples.
More affordable than a Mk1 - just
Today, greater supply and less eye-watering prices have made the Mk2 perhaps the most popular model with UK enthusiasts and - as with the Mk1 - tuning is very popular.
AMD Essex recommend a similar route to the Mk1. "Gain performance by changing cams, exhaust and mapping," says Shaun Hollamby. "The 16V version is the one to go for - but it's not as chuckable as the Mk1." Jody says "fitting engines or other components from later incarnations is again a well-trodden route, although increasingly enthusiasts are seeing original examples." And that opinion is backed up by Rupert Pontin at Glass's. "Unmolested good Mk2 GTIs are becoming harder to find, with £8,000 not an uncommon asking price."
Buy if: You fancy a classic GTI that you won't feel bad about modifying
Don't buy if: Value is all important - you can buy a Mk5 GTI for the same money
We found: 1989 VW Golf GTI 16v 3dr, oak green, service history, 139K miles, £6,995
Price Guide
Poor: Under £1,495
Good: £2,000 to £8,000
A1: £9,000+
Special Editions: Golf G60 Rallye £7,000 to £18,000