Lot details
Registration No: B733LLN
Chassis No: WVWZZZ15ZEK017159
Mot Expiry: June 2011

If you want to select a model that defined a whole genre of road cars for decades to come - look no further than the Golf GTi. Other hot hatches have worn the GTi badge, some have challenged for the crown without such a moniker. None have made such an impact at birth or have stood the test of time so well.

The story began in 1976 with what we retrospectively call the MKI GTi. An unashamed homologation special to help secure the model entry in Group 1 touring car races, it was initially built in limited numbers and in left-hand drive form only. Nevertheless, enthusiasts were blown away by its performance, handling, roadholding and even economy. The media ran out of superlatives, the die was cast and fully productionised versions followed, selling in ever increasing numbers. Volkswagen increased the GTi's engine capacity for the last of the Mk1s from the 1588ccs to 1781cc - increasing the torque by 8 lb ft in the process. Along with other changes, it made for a much quicker car, knocking 1.5 seconds off the 0-60mph time.

The Cabriolet version of the Golf first saw the light of day in 1979. It was built entirely by Karmann at Osnabruck on behalf of Volkswagen - they carried out every process from the stamping of the bodies to the final assembly. Aside from a larger fuel tank and smaller spare tyre from 1984 onwards, the specification remained unchanged until the MkI Cabriolet was replaced in 1993 by one based on the Golf MKIII - there was never a Cabriolet version of the MKII.

The right-hand drive 1984 MKI example on offer is a limited edition model with white paintwork, white trim and white hood. The vehicle came with a factory-fitted Zender body kit comprising bumpers, side skirts, wheel arches and twin lamp front grille. It has remained in the same ownership for the last 19 years, has always been garaged and only used as a second car for the last decade. Along the way it has been treated to a new hood and a partial retrim and is now said to be in "head-turning, immaculate condition".