50 JAHRE GOLF WITH THE VW CLUB OF SA

The Volkswagen Golf was born as the successor to the iconic Beetle - a car that amassed an almost mythical status with over 21.5 million sales globally. To say the Golf had a tough act to follow is an understatement. Yet, not only did it rise to the occasion, but it also cemented itself as a global favourite, with over 37 million units sold in its 50-year history. For many, particularly those over 40, the Golf is more than just a car; it’s a chapter in their personal story. Here in South Africa, that nostalgia extends across generations, thanks to the Mk1 Golf’s incredible production run that only ended in 2009. This longevity means countless South Africans learned to drive in a Mk1, with many cherishing it as their first car. Even today, the Mk1 remains a cult classic - its affordability and versatility drawing in both students and motorsport enthusiasts alike. The beauty of Volkswagen engineering is its modularity, allowing parts from newer models to be retrofitted onto older generations. This characteristic has kept the Mk1 alive and thriving, not just as a daily driver but as a canvas for enthusiasts. This sentiment isn’t exclusive to the Mk1 either; the Mk2 and Mk3 continue to inspire, despite their more traditional production lifespans. Wonder through any car meet or shop and you’ll spot examples ranging from pristinely preserved originals to wild, heavily modified show cars. The Mk4, on the other hand, marked a turning point for the Golf, introducing a more refined, upmarket vibe with improved engines and luxurious interiors. Now more affordable, the Mk4 is seeing a resurgence among those who longed for one in its heyday but couldn’t swing the price tag - myself included.