VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at Supercar Fest 2025 on Saturday the 17th of May, Sywell Aerodrome, Sywell, Northampton, NN6 0BN. Now in its seventh generation, the Golf GTi remains the hot-hatch by which all rivals are judged. The inaugural version was made available to a delighted German public in June 1976 and whilst it wasn't until July 1979 that right-hand drive models landed on British shores, a special order of 22 left-hand drive cars was imported by Volkswagen the year before in order to give already eager UK enthusiasts a sneaky peek at this new and exciting genre of performance car. The ploy worked perfectly as the car's unique combination of handling, performance, packaging and affordability was an instant hit. Suddenly, there was the perfect solution for the enthusiast who'd forsaken his sports car to transport a young family - the GTi was what you might call a 'cake and eat it' car.

 

This fabulous Mars Red Mk1 dates from 1982 and is one of the last 1,600cc cars before the arrival of the 1800 later that year. It's in excellent condition following restoration work, after which it has been in long term storage as part of a significant Collection. The previous owner commissioned a full engine rebuild costing nearly £2,500 in 2016 and a host of replacement parts and trims that are too numerous to list here. The classic Grey Stripe interior also received an overhaul in October 2020 resulting in a cabin that is a delight to be in. We strongly encourage you to view the car and its history file to fully appreciate its condition.

 

Accompanying the car is its original dealer book pack with instruction manual and service directory. The odometer currently indicates 128,827 miles which is largely academic when considering its condition and restorative works. 

 

Mk1 GTis are very collectible, particularly the early 1600 cars and offered without Reserve, this is a fantastic opportunity to own an example of the first generation of what would become a hot-hatch dynasty.