First off, my older brother had a Mark 1 GTi. It was red and nippy with what was considered at the time as a decent amount of power (110 bhp). Also, it was reliable as you expect with the downside of his car being the brakes.

To suggest they lacked to inspire confidence was an understatement. Braking early was essential while late braking was not an option! However, when I manage to buy my GTi 16v MK 2 the brakes were improved. Also, my MK 2 arrived with a few extras including wider alloy wheels, stainless steel exhaust, leather seats, and steering wheel.

All the additions added to the overall look of the Mark 2 which pleased me to no end. Also, power was increased in 16v form to 139 bhp which really did provide the kind of oomph that let you win the Traffic Light Grand Prix without too much effort. I’m not sure if my car had modified suspension but it really did handle the back roads well.

Again, as with Mark 1, it proved remarkably reliable. I cannot recall getting much work carried out aside from regular maintenance and tyre changes.  As for the fun factor, it was up there with the best of them. Additionally, it remains one of the reasons that Golf has endured since the seventies.

Performance, reliability, and practicality are all part of the great package that has proved itself over decades that continues to live on. A very decent motor overall.

Trevor Ferguson 22-9-2022

HOW MANY STILL MOTORING?

1986-1991

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Still Motoring

Welcome to Still Motoring. If you’re interested in modern classics manufactured between 1950 and 2019 then you’ve come to the right place for images and information. Based in Northern Ireland our classic enthusiasts magazine offers insights to some less common makes and models from past decades. Also, our different approach to valuations provides what we hope reflects how changes already occurring around us impact on the potential value of currently commonplace vehicles.

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