VOLKSWAGEN CLASSIC DISPLAYS A 1977 HILL CLIMB POLO AT BREMEN CLASSIC MOTORSHOW
Since its debut in 1975, the Volkswagen Polo has been quite similar to the iconic Golf with a footprint spanning generations, earning its place as a trailblazer in the compact car segment. With over 20 million units sold across its six generations, the Polo now approaches its 50th anniversary in 2025. The 1970s marked a pivotal era for Volkswagen. As the iconic Beetle approached the end of its reign, the automaker introduced a trio of groundbreaking models: the Passat in 1973, the Golf in 1974, and the Polo in 1975. Originally designed to sit a class below the Golf, the Polo carved out its niche as a compact car with refined styling and practicality. The Polo was launched as a reimagined version of the Audi 50, the quickly became a standout in the small car segment. With its clean lines, lightweight construction, and efficient engines, it captured the spirit of the times. Agile, affordable, and functional, the Polo laid the foundation for a legacy that would span five decades. The Volkswagen Classic team selected two special models to display at the Bremen Classic Motorshow from the first Polo generation for the vintage and modern classic car exhibition in northern Germany: the Polo L from 1975 which represents the beginnings of the small car from Wolfsburg. Small, functional and with a pared-down design, the model in Oceanic Blue shows how the foundation was laid for the success story of the Polo, which was only 3.50 metres long at the time. With a 0.9-litre engine and an output of 29 kW, the Polo with a weight of just 685 kilograms boasts a top speed of 132 km/h. The more upscale, optional L equipment gave the Polo the insignia of a certain luxury – with side trim strips, a two-speed blower and carpet. In addition, with its large boot lid and folding rear bench seat, the Polo L could be loaded with a generous 900 litres.
"Small size. Large space” was how the sales literature described it at the time. “A solid, reliable and economical Volkswagen, with space for four people and a modern, water-cooled drive system” – a concept that would prove itself. Quality, innovative spirit, versatility, comfort and economy have characterised all six model generations of the Polo right up to the present day – making it a national and international bestseller with 20 million units sold. The anniversary model was set to be shown off alongside a hill climb version of the diminutive lil thing - a ‘77 Hill Climb Polo to show that even teeny thiungs can be sporty. The wider and lowered motorsport vehicle was used as a race car for around 20 years. After around two years of restoration, the overhauled model raced again for the first time in 2022 at the Osnabrück hill climb race as part of the International Hill Climb Cup. The one-off model based on a Polo I in Bali Green with a capacity of 1.3 litres has an impressive power output of 81 kW and a top speed in the region of 150 km/h. To make the best use of the power, the Polo was also fitted with a shorter ratio transmission, and to make it safe it was given a competition-spec roll cage. Both Volkswagen Polos will be on display at Stand D08 in Hall 5 at the Bremen Classic Motorshow from 31 January to 2 February 2025. Volkswagen Classic will be present here together with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Oldtimer, Audi Tradition, Škoda and the Autostadt in Wolfsburg; they will also do their part to make it possible to experience automotive history first-hand. The exhibition is one of the most important events for classic vehicles at the start of the year and traditionally attracts numerous interested visitors from all over Europe with around 50,000 visitors expected this year.
Take a look at the YouTube video from the chaps that showcases all things VW in the coolest way. This ain't no stock Polo 1 and it's not a hill climb-spec version - this is what happens when a Polo 1 ends up in the hands of an enthusiast who has more money than sense and an eye for style - just so you can see another version of these iconic cars: VW POLO MK1 16V | Stefan Willkomm | VWHome | 4K | VW Home
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