ALL EIGHT VOLKSWAGEN GTIS IN A HEADS UP DRAG RACE IS VW FANBOI AWESOMENESS.
Few cars can claim the legacy the Volkswagen Golf has carved out over the decades. From its humble origins as a dependable compact in the 1970s to its status as a benchmark in the family hatchback segment, the Golf has become synonymous with reliability, performance, and innovation. With over 35 million units sold across its 40-plus-year history, the Golf isn't just a car—it's an icon that has consistently driven the brand forward, far beyond the shadow of the Beetle it succeeded. Volkswagen is known for naming their cars after winds and currents, and the Golf is no exception. Derived from the German word "Gulf," referencing the Gulf Stream, the Golf followed the trend seen in other VW models like the Jetta (from "Jet stream"), Passat (which means "Trade wind"), and Scirocco (a Mediterranean wind). These names aren't just catchy—they've given Volkswagen a unique identity that aligns with its global influence. As the 1970s rolled on, the Beetle was ageing, and Volkswagen needed something fresh to capture the imagination of a new generation. Enter the Mk1 Golf, designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro, founder of Italdesign. This new model was a stark departure from the Beetle's rounded curves, rear-mounted air-cooled engine, and rear-wheel-drive. Instead, the Golf introduced a sharp, angular design, a front-mounted water-cooled engine, and front-wheel-drive—ushering in a new era for Volkswagen. The Mk1 wasn't just a design revolution; it offered a diverse range of engines, from the economical 1.1-litre to the game-changing 1.6-litre GTi, which became the poster child for hot hatches. Diesel engines also made their debut, with naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants. The Mk1 was a runaway success, selling 6.99 million units worldwide and setting the stage for a new chapter in VW's history. Not forgetting they were sold on in SA for many more years than the rest of the world, until 2009. In 1983, Volkswagen unveiled the Mk2 Golf, a car that was bigger and more rounded but unmistakably still a Golf. It built on the success of its predecessor by offering more space, improved safety features, and cutting-edge technology for its time. The Mk2 was the first Golf to introduce ABS brakes, power steering, and an all-wheel-drive version called the Syncro. The GTi was beefed up, but it was the supercharged G60 that stole the show, offering great performance for the era. During its 8-year production run, the Mk2 sold 6.3 million units.
As the 90s rolled in, the Mk3 Golf brought with it a more substantial and curvier design, reflecting the trends of the time. This generation was safer, more refined, and for the first time, available as an estate. While some might remember it for the quirky multi-coloured "Harlequin" edition, the Mk3 also introduced the 2.0-litre GTi and the 6-cylinder VR6, which brought one of the most iconic soundtracks to the performance to the lineup. The Mk3 sold 4.8 million units. By 1997, the Mk4 Golf marked a significant shift upmarket for Volkswagen. The design was more refined, the interiors were of higher quality, and the technology took a noticeable step forward. The GTi continued to impress, but the real star was the 3.2-litre R32, which became the first production Golf to break the 250 km/h barrier. Buyers had no fewer than 24 engine options, making the Mk4 one of the most versatile Golfs ever produced. The Mk5 Golf hit the market in 2003 with a more aggressive design and a focus on attracting younger, sportier drivers. This generation introduced rear-link suspension and a DSG gearbox in the GTi, setting new benchmarks for hot hatch performance. The Mk5 was a hit, selling 3.4 million units. When the Mk6 Golf rolled off the production line in 2008, it didn't take long to make an impact, winning the prestigious World Car of the Year award. Though technically a heavily facelifted Mk5, the Mk6 brought important upgrades, including a 5-star NCAP safety rating. The 3.2-litre R32 made way for an all-new 2.0-litre Golf R, which, despite having fewer cylinders, packed a serious punch and kept the Golf’s performance credentials intact. It sold 2.8 million units. The Mk7 debuted in 2012 as the first model to ride on Volkswagen's MQB platform, the new chassis allowed for better proportions, with a more spacious cockpit and improved efficiency. The Mk7 also introduced the all-electric e-Golf and the plug-in hybrid Golf GTE, signalling Volkswagen’s commitment to electrification. The standout was the 2016 Golf Clubsport S that set a Nürburgring lap time of 7:49.21, reclaiming the front-wheel-drive lap record from the Honda Civic Type-R. The Mk7 was a massive success, selling 6 million units during its production run. In 2019, the Mk8 Golf arrived with a more angular design and a heavy emphasis on technology. The new model features an all-digital cockpit and a range of hybrid powertrains, reflecting the industry's shift towards more sustainable motoring. Despite the tech-forward approach, Volkswagen has stayed true to its roots, with the GTi and Golf R continuing to offer manual transmissions for driving purists. A diesel-powered GTD variant is also available, ensuring there's a Golf for everyone.
Trust the Carwow crew to assemble one of every generation GTi and pit them against each other in a drag race. The race is split in two with the Mk1-Mk4 battling it out, and then the Mk5 to Mk8 had their turn. We’d have liked to see the Mk4 play with the rest of the turbocharged cars, but it would have probably been the slowest because in stock form they’re admittedly a little asthmatic. It’s a great video, especially for VW fans, like us.
Take a look at the YouTube video from the Carwow crew who assembled one of each generation of the much-loved VW Golf GTi. We'd have preferred to see the Mk4 with the rest of the newer generation turbo cars, but it is what it is: VW Golf GTI Generations DRAG RACE | carwow
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