Volkswagen Golf Mk 2 (1983-92)
Production Total: The total production of the Volkswagen Golf Mk2, which was manufactured from 1983 to 1992, was approximately **6.3 million units**.
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Price New: In 1983, the new price for a Volkswagen Golf 1300 GL Mk2 in the UK was approximately **£5,000** (1983 - 1992) in United ...](https://www.classictrends.eu/uk/volkswagen/golf-2.php).
So, £5,000 in 1983 would be approximately equivalent to £21,300 in 2025.
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Rivals: In 1983, the Volkswagen Golf 1300 GL Mk2 faced competition from several notable cars in the UK. Here are the new prices of some of its main rivals:
1. **Ford Escort 1.3**:
- Price: Approximately £4,500
2. **Vauxhall Astra 1.3**:
- Price: Approximately £4,600
3. **Austin Maestro 1.3**:
- Price: Approximately £4,400
4. **Renault 9 1.4**:
- Price: Approximately £4,700
These prices reflect the competitive landscape of small, affordable cars in the early 1980s..
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of 2025, there are **6,970 Volkswagen Golf Mk2** cars recorded in the UK. This includes both licensed vehicles and those on SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification).
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Awards
The **Volkswagen Golf** won the Car of the Year award in 1985. This iconic hatchback was praised for its practicality, performance, and build quality, making it a favorite among both critics and consumers.
The Volkswagen Golf GTI won the **Motor Trend Car of the Year** award in 1985. This recognition highlighted the Golf GTI's exceptional performance, handling, and overall appeal as a hot hatchback.
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The **Volkswagen Golf Mk 2** had its share of common issues. Here are some to be aware of:
1. **Transmission Issues**: Jerking, slipping, and rough shifting with the dual-clutch system can occur³.
2. **Stalling and Electrical Problems**: These can lead to engine cut-outs and malfunctions in sensors and lights³.
3. **Power Loss**: Stemming from turbocharger or fuel system issues³.
4. **Suspension Concerns**: Often related to worn-out components³.
5. **Hydraulic Tappets**: These may rattle on start-up but should quiet down⁴.
Remember to check service history and inspect oil and coolant conditions when considering a Golf Mk 2!
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Generations
The **Volkswagen Golf** has seen **eight generations** since its debut in 1974. Let's take a quick tour through each one:
1. **Mk1 (1974–1983)**: The original Golf Mk1 replaced the Beetle, offering front-wheel drive and various body styles¹.
2. **Mk2 (1983–1991)**: Introduced in 1983, the Mk2 featured improved design and performance¹.
3. **Mk3 (1991–1997)**: The Mk3 brought further refinements and safety enhancements¹.
4. **Mk4 (1997–2003)**: Known for its solid build quality, the Mk4 continued the Golf legacy¹.
5. **Mk5 (2003–2008)**: A modern update with new technology and styling¹.
6. **Mk6 (2008–2012)**: Enhanced safety features and fuel efficiency marked this generation¹.
7. **Mk7 (2012–2020)**: The Mk7 won awards and impressed with its performance¹.
8. **Mk8 (2020 EU, 2021 US)**: The latest Golf, known for its advanced features and versatility¹.
From classic to cutting-edge, the Golf remains a beloved choice!
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Body Style/Variants
The **Volkswagen Golf Mk2** had several versions during its production:
1. **C**: The basic model.
2. **CL**: Slightly less spartan than the C.
3. **GL**: An upgraded version.
4. **GTI**: The iconic performance variant.
5. **Carat**: A lesser-known model.
These versions catered to various preferences and needs!
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Engines
The **Volkswagen Golf Mk2** featured a diverse range of engines, catering to various preferences and performance levels:
1. **GTD Turbodiesel**: Available in Euro markets, later using the 1.6 "umwelt" (ECO) diesel engine.
2. **GTI 16V**: A DOHC 1781 cc (1.8) 16-valve version of the straight-four GTI.
3. **GTI 8V**: The tried-and-tested 1781 cc (1.8) 8-valve GTI.
4. **Supercharged G60**: Offered with front- and four-wheel drive options.
5. **Rallye Golf**: A racing homologated variant based on the G60.
These engines contributed to the Golf Mk2's versatility and appeal!
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Spares
Certainly! If you're looking for **Volkswagen Golf Mk2** spares in the UK and Ireland, here are some options:
1. **VW Spares Limited**:
- Located in Castledermot, County Kildare, Ireland.
- Offers a wide range of classic VW parts for enthusiasts and repair services².
- Contact: Phone (059) 916 2756.
- Website: [VW Spares Limited](http://www.vwspares.ie/)
2. **Heritage Parts Centre**:
- A business run by enthusiasts for enthusiasts.
- One of the biggest suppliers of VW Golf Mk2 spares in Europe.
- Offers genuine parts, reproductions, and tuning parts.
- Online store with exploded diagrams and photographs to help identify the parts you need³.
- Website: [Heritage Parts Centre](https://www.heritagepartscentre.com/uk/volkswagen/golf-mk2.html)
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