When Volkswagen introduced the first Golf in 1974, few people imagined that this compact hatchback would become a legend and begin to approach such giants as the Toyota Corolla in terms of popularity. To begin with, the Golf was conceived as a replacement for the no less legendary Beetle, but it turned out to be… a little more angry and daring. The concept was simple: to create a small car with front-wheel drive, but that it could also be able to drive at traffic lights and not fall apart after a year.
Golf Mk1: Birth of a Legend (1974-1983)
It appeared at a time when Fiat 500 and Renault 5 dominated the small-car market. But Golf from the very beginning began to “chop from the shoulder”: its first designer was Giorgetto Giugiaro, who honed his skills on Maserati, Ferrari and Lamborghini. It’s like having your little brother learn from Batman – it already sounds cool.
The first Golf, although it was a compact, looked much more brutal than many modern cars. Well, imagine – against the background of angular and “business” Golf all small cars of that time seemed as if from cartoons. And, most importantly, the engine! The basic version was ordinary, but the GTI modification (1976) exploded the market. It was an icon for speed enthusiasts. You know, like the Golf was a regular student in class, and the GTI was the same student, but who, uh, found a part-time job in street racing.
What to check before you buy:
- Bodywork and corrosion: The Mk1 often suffers from rust, especially in areas where water accumulates, such as the wheel arches and underbody.
- Engine condition: Make sure the engine is running smoothly and there are no oil leaks. Engine repairs can be expensive.
- Suspension and brakes: Check the condition of springs and shock absorbers as well as brake pads and discs.
- Electrics: As the Golf Mk1 was relatively simple, electrical problems can occur due to aging wiring.
Golf Mk2: Maturity and solidity (1983-1992)
The second Golf looked like an athlete returning from the gym. Bigger, more aggressive, with a more impressive engine lineup. The Mk2 was also the flagship of all-wheel drive cars – VW offered a Golf Syncro version, making it ideal for winter roads. And let’s not forget that it was the Mk2 that gave us the Golf Rallye, which was so powerful it could keep up with the supercars.
What to check before you buy:
- Body rust: Like the Mk1, the Mk2 is prone to rust. Pay attention to the doors and rear arches.
- Engine condition: Pay attention to possible coolant and oil leaks. Check that the motor does not overheat.
- Transmission: Check the transmission for jerky or difficult shifting.
- Suspension: Since vehicles of this generation may have been actively used, check the condition of the suspension for wear and tear.
Golf Mk3: A revival of the GTI and a little more family (1991-1997)
The third version became more mature – both literally and figuratively. For the first time, the Golf has airbags, ABS, and has become more family-friendly. But “friendly” doesn’t mean “toothless”. The Mk3 brought back the GTI and introduced the first GTD diesel version. This variant became an icon for those who like to save fuel, but don’t mind teasing BMW on the highway once in a while.
What to check before you buy:
- Corrosion: Pay attention to the bodywork, especially the areas around the windows and the rear arches.
- Engine and transmission: Check for knocking or unusual running sounds. Check that the transmission runs smoothly.
- Electrical: Electrical problems may manifest themselves as non-functioning windows or lights. Check all electrical devices.
- Suspension condition: Worn bushings and shock absorbers can impair handling.
Golf Mk4: Technology and timeless design (1997-2003)
In the world of cars, they say you can’t outrun time. But the Mk4 Golf proved that you can outrun fashion. Even today, 20 years later, its looks seem relevant. The powerful VR6 engine, the first versions with 4Motion and the iconic R32 all made the Mk4 a “hot-hatch for grown-ups”. Yes, it no longer shocked like the GTI, but it could stand decently next to luxury sedans.
What to check before you buy:
- Electronic systems: The Mk4 is known for its electronics, so check all the sensors and systems are working.
- Body: Corrosion is still a problem, especially at the joints.
- Engine and gearbox: Check for leaks, and listen carefully to how the engine runs. Pay attention to the gearshift.
- Suspension: Bearing and shock absorber wear can be a problem, especially if the car has been used in an aggressive driving style.
Golf Mk5 and Mk6: Sport and comfort go hand in hand (2003-2013)
The fifth Golf became more spacious and the sixth more technologically advanced. Together they laid the foundation for the car to become a versatile car: powerful engines, comfortable interior and, of course, GTI and R-versions that simply destroyed the competition. The Mk6 GTI was so good that at one point it looked like a toy for grown-up kids who are “over 30” but still don’t mind having fun.
What to check before you buy a MK5:
- Electronics and multimedia: The Mk5 is often equipped with many electronic systems. Check the operation of the multimedia system, navigation and sensors.
- Body: Although corrosion is less common, it’s still worth checking the areas around the rear arches and doors.
- Engine condition: Pay attention to the cooling system and the condition of the timing belt. Frequent oil changes are a good sign.
- Suspension: If the owner used the car for “long distance racing”, the suspension may have been subject to wear and tear.
What to check before you buy a MK6:
- Body: Inspect for minor damage and corrosion, especially at panel joints.
- Safety Systems: Check the operation of the airbags and all electronic systems.
- Electronics: Carefully inspect the electrical system, including doors, lights, and air conditioning.
- Engine: Check that there are no knocking or unusual sounds. Also check the condition of the clutch.
Golf Mk7: The Evolution of the Master (2012-2019)
The Mk7 got slightly bigger, but so much more refined that it was dubbed the “Swiss Knife” of cars. Adaptive cruise control and 4Motion in full bloom appeared on this Golf. And yes, it was the Golf on which you could “burn” on the highway, and then calmly go to the countryside to plant a couple of potatoes.
What to check before you buy:
- Electronic systems: Checking all on-board systems, including adaptive cruise control and driver assistance systems, is essential.
- Engine: Check that there are no overheating or leaks. Note the condition of the turbocharger, if fitted.
- Body: Inspect for scratches and dents, as well as signs of failed body repairs.
- Suspension and brakes: Pay attention to any foreign noises and knocks when driving. Checking the condition of the brake pads and discs is also important.
Golf Mk8: Smart but still evil (from 2019)
The latest Golf is, as they say, “smarter than all of us”. It’s ready to tell you when you’re tired, it tells you the route, and the GTI and R-versions still roll with incredible power. And the phrase “I’ve got a GTI” sounds like a good reason to flirt again. All in all, the Mk8 is not just a car anymore, it’s a gadget on wheels. Tesla’s little brother, if you want.
What to check before you buy:
- Multimedia system operation: The Mk8 has a large touchscreen and sometimes users encounter problems with its operation.
- Sensors and cameras: Make sure that all sensors, including the parking sensors and rearview cameras, are functioning correctly.
- Driver assistance systems: Check the operation of adaptive cruise control, lane keeping and other assistance technologies.
- Engine condition: Check that the motor runs smoothly and there are no extraneous noises.
- Transmission operation: Check automatic or manual transmission for smooth shifting.
Average impressions from Golf owners
Golf owners – are a separate caste.
For them, Golf – is not just a car, but a philosophy. They love their Golf, even if it sometimes “asks” for investments, but they also know that it will never let them down. You know, like a great friend who won’t betray you, but will sometimes ask for a loan to buy new brakes.
Here’s what average Golf owners think:
- Reliable and versatile: “My Golf is like a Swiss knife: comfortable, practical, reliable and ready for anything. It’s a car for every day and for weekends.“
- The legendary GTI: “The GTI is always a source of pride. You can drive it like a normal Golf, but when you want to, it turns into a real beast.”
- Design: “Its look is so cool that you don’t even want to put dodgers on it. It’s just a clean, classic, unforgettable shape.”
- Cultural heritage: “The Golf is more than a car. It’s part of pop culture, and everyone who gets behind the wheel feels a little part of the legend.”
Bottom line
So, Golf – is not just a compact hatchback, but a car that keeps the brand and only gets better with each generation. It has everything: style, power, reliability and even a pinch of madness.
Buying a used Volkswagen Golf – is certainly not a lottery, but it’s always good to know what to look out for before you buy. Here’s a list of the main things to check for each generation of Golf to avoid potential trouble.