The brazilian VW Gol is not a Golf derivated car! But a simplified and shorted Passat B1 platform, and used al the suspention, longitudinal monted gearbox and engines with front wheel drive. The mk5 Gol switched to Polo mk4 platform, and finaly used a transversal mounted engine and gearbox.
Se bem que ele guardava algumas semelhanças, no interior e exterior, e teve uma proposta similar no começo. Acho que o projeto teve o Golf como espelho, até por conta do protecionismo da época, mesmo que a plataforma fosse totalmente brasileira, tal qual o projeto. - Although it bore some similarities, both internally and externally, and had a similar proposal at the beginning. I believe the project mirrored the Golf, partly due to the protectionism of the time, even though the platform was entirely Brazilian, just like the project itself.
@@danleitecamargo am working on a script for a video detailing in English the development of the Gol, from my research there was so much in fighting in vw during the development of this car that am amazed that it even happened, spoilers but things got so bad during the development, specially wen it came to deciding the power train for the Gol, that part of the team literally went, it’s either the air cooled engine or were are not launching the car
I always loved the Golf and Volkswagen in general. In 2000, I became a VW salesman because I was passionate about the car industry, especially Volkswagen and the Golf in particular; I thought it was the perfect car. And I wasn't alone, I sold many Golfs to people who had only bought Golfs since the '70s and weren't interested in anything else. I eventually bought a brand new Golf IV that I kept for many years. It's probably the best car I've owned, not the most powerful, not the most exclusive or luxurious, but the most well-rounded car; everything was so well thought out and engineered, although it had its share of VW-related issues. I travelled all over the US and Canada in it, I drove it when I got married (didn't care for a limo) and brought my baby girl home in it. Today in North America, you can't even buy a Golf anymore, only the performance-oriented GTI. In a world where the majority of cars on the road are soulless, lookalike SUVs that feel completely disconnected from the road, it seems people have forgotten the joy of driving and the new generation of drivers will never have the chance of experiencing what it was like to drive off the dealer lot at the wheel of a car that makes you feel like you're in charge while wanting to have fun with you. Peak Car has passed and I'm glad I was just the right age to enjoy it while it was there. Now I have to rely on maintaining older cars to feel that joy that used to be accessible to the common person on the daily.
Hello. Greetings from Lithuania. Here in Europe, old golfs are still rather common. Being closer to Germany and all. I have had a lot of old timers, but the two most reliable ones I had were the Passat B5 1.9 TDI 66KW, and then a Passat B5 1.9 TDI 81 KW. I have then decided it was time to buy a newer car and ended up buying a Citroen DS3, 2010. I hated it with passion. Every single month there was something wrong with it, it just felt wrong. Ended up selling the thing and have now bought a Golf IV 1999, 1.9 TDi 81 KW in almost prestine condition. Just need to fix a few mechanical issues here and there and it'll be golden. These cars truelly are something else. They don't make them like that anymore.
@@spannersautoandcomputerser1649 yeah the 5th gear thing is an issue. There is a fix. The diesel rabbits had a taller 5th gear which can be installed in the GTI's tranny
@@svenhodaka9145 Here in Europe its never a question if there are 3 pedals on the floor... or at least until the Mk5 came. if there were any less it would not be a gti! even when i had a mk5 i still found one with a manual :D
This, VW even stated that the original reason for the Golf was to design a new model that would carry on the manufacturer's leadership of having a People's Car! They've lost the plot.
I’m 62 and still have my ‘84 black mk 1 GTI since new. No winters and rarely rain and she still puts a smile on my face every time I drive her. I have an emotional connection that will never fade. God bless the mk1 GTI ❤️
I was born in 1973 and in 1992 fresh out of school, my dad bought me my 1984 Rabbit Convertible. I still have it and drive it. It’s so much fun and all the memories inside that little red VW… I plan to keep it forever. Cheers 🍺
Never was a Golffan, my first car was a 1973 Super Beetle. But, my best car was a 1992 MK3. And Im not going to sell my MK4 VR5 Wintergolf.....what a sound.
The Mk2 Golf is the best build/reliable German car of them all. Even today Mk2's in all forms and trims are still on the road as daily drivers. The Mk2 is often compared to the Corolla by the international Automotive press.
In 2019 I got a 6 speed 4motion SportWagen. It is fantastic! It will no doubt cost me more in ownership in the long run compared to the Corolla. My golf is such a joy to drive.
@@erichartke4331I have a 2018 7 speed 4motion golf R ( stage 2 hehe ) yes fantastic but it will no doubt cost me in maintenance in the future! But boy can it fly 🚗💨😁
I have travelled in newer, more expensive cars and it never feels a hardship to get back in my 7.5 afterwards. Some things are not appreciated until you drive other cars and then you realise that the indicators on a golf just work! Everything is exactly where it should be. The linearity of the steering is spot on. Even though it probably has more plastic parts these days it still has a quality well designed, easy to live with feel. It rides better than many similar sized cars too.
Here in the USA, parts for my Mk2 Golf are cheaper now than they were 25 years ago, due to the old designs and tooling having been sent to China, to become one of their most popular vehicles. It was so beloved by Taxi drivers and Police departments there that another (final) year of production was added so they could top off their fleets.
I'll have to stand up for my Mk7 Golf, in silver, just like the one pictured in this video. It's been a fantastic car since buying it in September 2015, always reliable and a joy to drive. Nothing out of the ordinary in expenses, I keep it away from the dealer's workshop and do my own oil changes, plugs, tyres, etc - only ever visiting the mechanic for brake related items. It's still as fuel efficient as it was when new, over 161,000km (100,000 miles) and will likely see twice that many trouble-free travels.
Aussie Golf owner here - bought new and still own Mk6 GTD stage 2 with custom coding and other bits…It has a bit of torque 😜 G’day to all other Golf lovers 👍
Since Saab died,I've had great luck with Golfs.My (US spec 7.5) is just so easy to live with.And ease itself can be a bit of fun.Aren't VW's generally rare in Oz? I hardly saw any when I lived in Melbourne and later Adelaide.Oddly,I think I saw more Citroens.Great country,though.All I disliked were the flies and having to leave.
I'm 62. My first car was a Mk2 GTI, purchased in 1984. My second car was a Mk3 Golf, purchased in 1995. And my current car is a Brazilian made Mk4 GTI VR6, purchased in late 2002. I've had my 2003 GTI VR6 now going on 22 years as my daily driver, and this car has been more reliable than a Toyota or Lexus!
I had a MK 5 GT for 3 years ( it was 10 years old already ) but I loved it! As soon as I had enough money I bought a 2018 golf MK 7.5 R 😃 ( amazing! ) but I still have a fondness of my MK 5, just needed more power! 😂
In our video, we claim that the VW Golf is the most successful car in the world. Technically, the Toyota Corolla may have sold more units than the Golf. Yet its cult following around the world, we believe, can be said to make it the most successful car ever.
@@DWREVAlso why are you so down on German cars lately? A little while ago you ran a headline along the lines of 'why aren't German cars good anymore', quoting Consumer Reports etc (a debatable source IMO) yet CR just declared BMW the most reliable brand. I think you should calm down the hyperbolic headlines, the German auto industry has what it takes to succeed and is doing just that.
If you ask the average American, they've never heard of Golf, aside from the sport. Aside from a blip in the 80s, Golf has been a non-player in the world's (now) second-largest market.
VW dropped quality in favour of greed and cheating on emissions. To this day they haven’t really atoned for their failures. I used be in favour of VW as a reliable vehicle manufacturer having had three Golf’s. Now, I’d never touch any VW. There are better options and other manufacturers are beating VW hands down on price, quality, reliability and value. Made in Germany is sadly now synonymous with cheap materials, poor quality and poor value for money.
Couldn’t agree more, especially after working for VW. Absolutely terrible vehicles designed to fail due to poorly manufactured parts same with Audi and Porsche. Unfortunately worked for all three brands so much for German cars being reliable.
Greetings from Cape Town, South Africa. My brother bought himself a Citi Golf recently and he loves it. Although I cant drive because was blind from birth, I love it too. I also love the Mk4, Mk5 and Mk6 generations of the Golf for it's fuel-injected 1.6l naturally aspirated 4 cylinder petrol engine
In Brazil the Golf lauched only in 1993 in the mk3 GTI 2.0 8V 2 doors version, imported from Mexico. 1 Year later came the 4 doors GLX 2.0 8V from Mexico too, and a 4 doors GL 1.8 8V from Germany. Only in 2000 began the manufacturing the mk4 in Brazil.
It was a good car. A friend of mine had the 3rd generation, also made in Mexico, which was built together with the Vento, a Golf with trunk just. Both very comfortable and reliable by then!
This video is a pathetic marketing attempt to persuade people that VW is still in the game. Overpriced cars with the outdated technology clearly lost the competition to Korean and Japanese companies. To me the future of VW strongly reminds the history of Nokia. Reliance on the established technology and failure to predict the future industry development.
VW will be fine. It’s the Japanese carmakers that need to worry about their overpriced, outmoded vehicles at this point. Quality control and pricing are not enough.
It's 2024 and here in South Africa the Vw Golf and VW brand is loved and will be loved for generations. It's simply in our DNA, what kept the flame in most of us burning amid all the issues we face.
Had my '83 GTI Mk1 since 1988 and it's still a hoot to own and drive. It's simple but well engineered, easy to maintain and a great design. Cars of today are too complex, too expensive and have far too much reliance on electrical systems.
The Golf is no longer imported to the USA. I hope VW changes their business model and starts importing Golf S,SE, Wolfsburg Only the GTI and the R models are coming now. Why? I've owned 2 great cars.
It's understandable that VW is trying to embrace its heritage by releasing electric versions of legacy models. However, it's doubtful that they can truly capture the magic of, say, the Beetle or the Golf with the materials in use today. If petrol becomes too expensive or less readily available, there could be a substantial market in the future for converting classic legacy vehicles to electric power.
I have my doubts. An EV conversion will always have lower range because there is not sufficient space to fit a decent sized battery in an older car. That's why EV conversions of older vehicles usually have a range no more in the 160 km (100 miles) range. The next-generation Golf will be designed around a much bigger battery pack in lieu of a internal combustion engine, and that means a range more in the 400 km (248 miles) range at minimum.
@@Sacto1654 VW actually had City Strom electric versions of classic Golfs. And even ancient RWD "luftboxer" cars. They were rubbish. But they did exist.
@@Sacto1654 A range of 150 km would be just fine for many , especially if it was the last viable option. Conversions are still way too expensive anyhow.
Trip to Dubrovnik was amazing because what seemed in 2022 to be the most popular car was the mark 2 golf. Not as a collectors item but just an everyday car. Was amazed. Even the odd mark 1.
I was in Greece a few times over the last few years, and I was shocked at how many MK4 VW's I saw there! If you go to Athens, you will marvel at the sheer numbers of specifically MK4 VW's on the road there! I spoke to a local mechanic there, and he told me that mechanically, the MK4's are the soundest and most reliable VW's ever built! They were probably the last generation of VW's that didn't have too much computerized tech on board, and they spend a lot less time in the repair garage as their latter counterparts.
He says that the Golf is classless but that is old, that was only true in the past in the 1970s-1990s. Today it is a more middle income car, and the vintage old ones are indeed classless but that is for all vintage cars unless they are high value.
The base Golf just got canceled in several countries, including the U.S., where we have only the GTI and R. Last time I checked, Mexico doesn't have ANY Golf models available anymore!
For now. But once the new EV Golf enters production, I expect it to be built at VW's huge Puebla plant, and that means we'll see the Golf and Jetta model range in EV form.
@@whcwcjecjecuecuw6654 People don't want EVs despite all forcing and menaces, that's clear from sales. Some people want explicitly TESLAS, the rest (~85-90% of buyers) want ICE cars and won't buy anything else. It's that simple. And Volkswagens are a has-been no matter which engine. Cause they are unreliable crap.
As an ex GTi owner, and still a current VW product driver I pose a (few) statement(s). If VW hadn't made such a mess of the Mk8, they wouldn't have to commission production of these type of videos. In my opinion the Mk8's exterior and interior have veered so far off the legendary Golf's signature looks, that I've a feeling, that sales of the Mk8 are bad. And it's so typical of VW to remind us of their history whenever sales become bad, appealing for sales this type of way. This is a matter of my opinion only of course.
Well, let's look at the reliability/durability and affordability of the Golf over the years- high prices with less quality, more problematic and poor resale. VW & Germany has lost that idea
I bought a new VW Scirocco in 1980 and loved it. its a Golf with different body,. Put Koni shocks headers and Abarth exhaust system on it,. Drove it coast to coast twice and kept it until 1991. I wish I still had it. It got 35 MPG cruising at 70 mph in 5th gear. Easy to fix and maintain. also put a electronic ignition in it, the CIS injection system was faultless.
I had an 84 Rabbit L in the early 90s. I loved it dearly with OEM parts, yet it just kept breaking (despite not being that old). Changed over to an 86 325es and later an 88 325is (both with stick) and never went back to anything VW again.
In 1982 when I got my first real job I still drove my high school car. A 1959 Plymouth Belvedere. They gave me a Golf! From a sleek spaceship to a little boxshaped thing where everything was manual. Much like a Ford Model A. No wonder I felt downgraded. But 42 years later that Golf still sits in my carport. So yes I guess there was something good about it afterall. The Plymouth is there as well, aged 65 by now and it's still the better car by far. But I digress. I never expexted the little box with the waferthin materials to last long but it's still around. Good jump little Rabbit!
Fully enjoyed this video I own a golf gti mk5 GTI l have also owned the mk2/mk3 :mk4 l GTI a bit more don’t tell the S3😂 l Also own a vw transporter T5 sportline love that to love vw as a brand there’s something that’s special can’t say what it is that makes you go back for more there not as cheap as they once was which made them even more of a bargain vw have realise what they have. Great video to watch beautifully edited love it keep them coming 👏🏽👊🏽👍🏽💯🥂
Most successful car ? Then what about Corolla , Civic ? Note: Post my comment. This channel changed the title from “Most Successful Car” to “Most Successful European Car” !!
The Golf 4 remains my favorite. I've had a few in the past. My recently purchased Skoda Fabia 4 evokes the same feeling in terms of dimensions and experience.
@@tmajec No, he said right. The Golf was an imported car in Brazil. He was loved by everyone but it was very expensive, it wasn't a popular car like in some countries.
Por favor DW traduzcan este reportaje al español, somos miles los fanáticos del VW Golf que nos encantaría tener este documental en español.¡Gracias! 😊
@@theadvocate4698I once went to a Mitsubishi dealership to look at the new PHEV Outlander, and the salesperson told me they have Toyota to thank for their increased sales because many of their customers are people who couldn’t get a RAV4 Prime with its 2+year wait list
In my country, the Golf is seen more as a premium car because it's relatively expensive here. Most of the people who buy it are people who cant afford the GTi so they buy the regular Golf and modify to look like GTi and pretend they're driving the GTi.
Mexico has their own hystory arround the golf too, The MK1 was launched in the late 70´s as Caribe offering a GTI´s version called Caribe GT instead of fuel injection the car has a carburetor and has a rich legacy as the "Mexican GTI".Late the car was launched as Golf when the MK2 was offered in Mexico. As in every country the car has a reputation of reliable and good car even today the golf is a car for VW´s lovers who love add GTI emblems and accesories related to the original model and of course choosing for love and nostalgia into the families who grow with one and they keep good memories of it.
I purchased my First VW a 2002 VW Bora V5 (Jetta) 5 speed manual what a great car in 6 years nothing has Gone wrong oil water and petrol and a Yearly inspection and so Quiet
The power of narrative is never to be underestimated. To call it the most successful model ever is a big of stretch, but hey, nobody is perfect, not even DW.
I love hot hatches. Wish Honda continued evolving its Civic with a true hatchback variant like the Golf. The Golf is the perfect size for today’s daily needs. The GTI is on my radar as my next daily driver - unless Honda makes a comeback with a true hot-hatch.
I hope that the Golf lives on because, selfishly, there is no other car that combines all the elements of performance, comfort, safety, and quality like it does. When you include how functional a hatchback is, there really is no other car that does what it does as well as it does.
you're so wrong and why do you think, golf wasn't family car even before 2003? it can be whatever you want, that the thing with golf, and this hasn't changed in last 50 years, i would say mk7 was there one of the finest models, for example . one of the best if nor the best kept design evolution of any car in the history. i don't think any brand can tops that.
I agree that the Golf story is a great one. However, the Golf 8 is the most anaemic, interventionist and soulless appliance of a car I’ve ever had the displeasure of driving. It may resemble a Golf 1 but it’s so far removed from the original that the connection between the two is more imagined - confected, even - than real.
I have one :). Last year Golf celebrated his 40 years of solid age :). Opinions are different about it. All my relatives hate it, except my son and wife... Now it is harder to maintain, because of rust e.t.c.
@@DWREV Thank you! :) My Golf is not the most beautiful of course, but maybe I can make some pictures :). Thank you for invitation to the Club :). I will think about it.
I think its absolutely crazy how much ground clearance the old Golf and other cars had back in the day. Now they are all so impractical and slammed to the ground. They just aren't made for a majority of us in mind anymore. One of many reasons people keep buying crossovers and SUVs. Just basic usability.
nonsense, suvs are design mutants and have least practicality, any car designer will tell you that. and by they way, how many new golfs etc did you actualy try to drive or art least been into. every new model is basilicly bigger (and taller sometimes) then previous gen, ground clearance is not changing, at least to lower side (could happen with some sport editions etc, but that's logical).
Still a masterpiece of german engineering, but today the masterpiece is to make the costumer pay the car twice. Once for the new car and twice for the repair-bills during its life-span.😂Probably MK 2 and 4 were the best. As a used car buyer avoid at all costs the TSI and DSG junk, the epitome of planned obsolescense. Greetings from Germany.
There is an error in the video. The car from Brazil is the GOL, a poor cousin from Golf. It was launched in 1983 with air cooled engine and was a total failure. In 1985 VW decide to use the water cooled 1.5 , and very soon changed to the 1.6, and was a success. Gol was the best seller in Brazil to years. GOLF came in 1993 as a imported car, and became "nacional" in the mk 4 generation. It was very superior but more expensive than GOL, and because of that was never a "best seller" in Brazil.
The Golf mk4 was famous and beloved here in morocco 🇲🇦 Im moving soon to germany for ausbildung and im planning to bring my Golf MK1 Cabriolet karmann with me and i don’t know if its possible to register it there or not 🤔
VW (and DW) should look into the new generation VW Polo "Vivo" in South Africa. It has taken over from the Golf Mk 1 and has been the bestselling vehicle here for many years. It is also a lower cost version of the regular VW Polo, much like the Citi Golf. I still have a Citi Golf and will never get rid of it. I notice that their values are rising exponentially! 😊
In numbers the fiat 124 is Lada 1200 2104 fso polonez fso classic etc etc. But since it is communist countries' ehm giving presents (barter deals is the business term) it is doubtful if these are units sold. But no doubt in numbers worldwide it is biggest in its time, one also have to compensate for total sales of course in a particular decade.
It seemed "unexceptional" until I saw the more recent offerings by VW (T-Roc, ID3). Now I appreciate how truly awesome this car is, and it's sad that it will likely be replaced by these newer design disasters.
The ironic about building very reliable Golfs with body panels and chassis that are thoroughly coated with antirust materials decades ago is that many owners end up not willing to buy a brand new Golf after 20 years of owning the old one. So, when VW decides to scale down on materials so that newer generations of Golfs will not survive their 9th or 10th year of ownership, ppl will have to scrap them, go to VW dealers and sign a new auto financing/leasing agreement to get their brand new rides, it's understandable why many customers are truly p*ssed really bad over the decline of quality materials, fit and finish and reliability of all-new cars made by VW. The company are desperately seeking people of the current era to buy their cars in droves just like what their granddads, dads, uncles, moms, grannies and aunts used to do during the economic miracle eras. In retrospective, i think Koreans, Italians and Mainland Chinese cars are truly visionary in their automotive business acumen. Selling cars with below-average reliability scores (except for their engine blocks) in tens of millions during 1980s until 2010s are the best way to ensure profits always goes into the companies' bank accounts and help offsetting losses from selling unpopular models.
A firend of mine has his gti tattooed in his arm. By the way vw, when can we expect the new vershion of Golf with manual transmiton in MX ? Mine is 12 years old I a need a new one.
Thanks for uploading such clips again. Germans are know for their over engineering but GOLF wasn't. So keep it that way in my opinion. If I may ask that VW reproduce some original models, would sell fast. Again originality speeks.
Improperly prepared documentary. It only features footage from the first and second generations of golf. Additionally, it includes a polo commercial intended for Mexico or Brazil as if it were about golf. More attention to detail is needed.
"What's so special about it? Nothing" What a legend!
Wow even the way Mr Georgetto speaks in a interview is so artistic. 🎉
The brazilian VW Gol is not a Golf derivated car!
But a simplified and shorted Passat B1 platform, and used al the suspention, longitudinal monted gearbox and engines with front wheel drive.
The mk5 Gol switched to Polo mk4 platform, and finaly used a transversal mounted engine and gearbox.
The first Gols also used the air cooled boxer from the beetle, I own one of these first gols
Also noted that, the Brazilian Gol are more similar to Polo than Golf, especially the second generation.
Se bem que ele guardava algumas semelhanças, no interior e exterior, e teve uma proposta similar no começo. Acho que o projeto teve o Golf como espelho, até por conta do protecionismo da época, mesmo que a plataforma fosse totalmente brasileira, tal qual o projeto.
- Although it bore some similarities, both internally and externally, and had a similar proposal at the beginning. I believe the project mirrored the Golf, partly due to the protectionism of the time, even though the platform was entirely Brazilian, just like the project itself.
@@danleitecamargo am working on a script for a video detailing in English the development of the Gol, from my research there was so much in fighting in vw during the development of this car that am amazed that it even happened, spoilers but things got so bad during the development, specially wen it came to deciding the power train for the Gol, that part of the team literally went, it’s either the air cooled engine or were are not launching the car
I always loved the Golf and Volkswagen in general. In 2000, I became a VW salesman because I was passionate about the car industry, especially Volkswagen and the Golf in particular; I thought it was the perfect car. And I wasn't alone, I sold many Golfs to people who had only bought Golfs since the '70s and weren't interested in anything else.
I eventually bought a brand new Golf IV that I kept for many years. It's probably the best car I've owned, not the most powerful, not the most exclusive or luxurious, but the most well-rounded car; everything was so well thought out and engineered, although it had its share of VW-related issues. I travelled all over the US and Canada in it, I drove it when I got married (didn't care for a limo) and brought my baby girl home in it.
Today in North America, you can't even buy a Golf anymore, only the performance-oriented GTI. In a world where the majority of cars on the road are soulless, lookalike SUVs that feel completely disconnected from the road, it seems people have forgotten the joy of driving and the new generation of drivers will never have the chance of experiencing what it was like to drive off the dealer lot at the wheel of a car that makes you feel like you're in charge while wanting to have fun with you. Peak Car has passed and I'm glad I was just the right age to enjoy it while it was there. Now I have to rely on maintaining older cars to feel that joy that used to be accessible to the common person on the daily.
Hello. Greetings from Lithuania.
Here in Europe, old golfs are still rather common. Being closer to Germany and all.
I have had a lot of old timers, but the two most reliable ones I had were the Passat B5 1.9 TDI 66KW, and then a Passat B5 1.9 TDI 81 KW. I have then decided it was time to buy a newer car and ended up buying a Citroen DS3, 2010. I hated it with passion. Every single month there was something wrong with it, it just felt wrong. Ended up selling the thing and have now bought a Golf IV 1999, 1.9 TDi 81 KW in almost prestine condition. Just need to fix a few mechanical issues here and there and it'll be golden. These cars truelly are something else. They don't make them like that anymore.
I love my '83 Rabbit GTI! I still get all warm inside when I'm behind the wheel.
Mine was fun but needed more 5th gear. Probably my biggest issue, that and the lack of power.
@@spannersautoandcomputerser1649 yeah the 5th gear thing is an issue. There is a fix. The diesel rabbits had a taller 5th gear which can be installed in the GTI's tranny
We had a red ‘86 GTI with 3 pedals on the floor 👌😁.
(Edit) We now have a mk 7.5 Golf R with 3 pedals on the floor.
👍😁
@@svenhodaka9145 Here in Europe its never a question if there are 3 pedals on the floor... or at least until the Mk5 came. if there were any less it would not be a gti! even when i had a mk5 i still found one with a manual :D
@@kristoferturner2194 That’s precisely why god gave us two hands and two feet!😁
Manufacturers forget that they sold well because lower income people could afford them. Price them at a different bracket and it won't sell as good.
This, VW even stated that the original reason for the Golf was to design a new model that would carry on the manufacturer's leadership of having a People's Car!
They've lost the plot.
I’m 62 and still have my ‘84 black mk 1 GTI since new. No winters and rarely rain and she still puts a smile on my face every time I drive her. I have an emotional connection that will never fade. God bless the mk1 GTI ❤️
Owned a golf since my late 20s, throughout my 30s and still no plan to replace it now in my 40s
I was born in 1973 and in 1992 fresh out of school, my dad bought me my 1984 Rabbit Convertible. I still have it and drive it. It’s so much fun and all the memories inside that little red VW… I plan to keep it forever. Cheers 🍺
Never was a Golffan, my first car was a 1973 Super Beetle.
But, my best car was a 1992 MK3.
And Im not going to sell my MK4 VR5 Wintergolf.....what a sound.
1993 Volkswagen Cabriolet Collectors Edition, my 7th mk1! Driving this car feels like wearing a comfortable, familiar pair of sneakers. So much fun!
1985, late MK1 Cabrio (non clipper) owner here. :)
2018 MK 7.5 golf R ( stage 2 ) owner here 😁
Never getting rid of my Mk2 Golf 16v GTI. :)
The best looking Golf 😊
The Mk2 Golf is the best build/reliable German car of them all.
Even today Mk2's in all forms and trims are still on the road as daily drivers.
The Mk2 is often compared to the Corolla by the international Automotive press.
such a shame the regular golf and golf wagon aren't sold here in the USA because we like SUVs to much. I still love my dads TDI wagon
In 2019 I got a 6 speed 4motion SportWagen. It is fantastic! It will no doubt cost me more in ownership in the long run compared to the Corolla. My golf is such a joy to drive.
@@erichartke4331I have a 2018 7 speed 4motion golf R ( stage 2 hehe ) yes fantastic but it will no doubt cost me in maintenance in the future! But boy can it fly 🚗💨😁
Hatchbacks don't sell well in the USA and VW absolutely know it
The reliability of Golfs was terrible in the US. Good riddance.
People just don't realize how much enyojable and practical a wagon is
I'll never give up my MK7. It will always have a place in my garage.
I have a MK 7.5, I here you 👍
I have travelled in newer, more expensive cars and it never feels a hardship to get back in my 7.5 afterwards. Some things are not appreciated until you drive other cars and then you realise that the indicators on a golf just work! Everything is exactly where it should be. The linearity of the steering is spot on. Even though it probably has more plastic parts these days it still has a quality well designed, easy to live with feel. It rides better than many similar sized cars too.
Out of curiosity have you ever experienced any leaks in the spare tire compartment i have seen this a lot even with the passat from that era
Here in the USA, parts for my Mk2 Golf are cheaper now than they were 25 years ago, due to the old designs and tooling having been sent to China, to become one of their most popular vehicles. It was so beloved by Taxi drivers and Police departments there that another (final) year of production was added so they could top off their fleets.
Yup the FAW Jetta cars, because of them you can order small bits for mk2's. Brand new replacement parts...for a decent price.
That’s awesome! I was considering getting an older fun car, but never did due to not wanting to struggle to find parts.
@@tedjohnson64 yup considering you guys in the US have cheap shipping its not a bad idea
I'll have to stand up for my Mk7 Golf, in silver, just like the one pictured in this video. It's been a fantastic car since buying it in September 2015, always reliable and a joy to drive. Nothing out of the ordinary in expenses, I keep it away from the dealer's workshop and do my own oil changes, plugs, tyres, etc - only ever visiting the mechanic for brake related items. It's still as fuel efficient as it was when new, over 161,000km (100,000 miles) and will likely see twice that many trouble-free travels.
Aussie Golf owner here - bought new and still own Mk6 GTD stage 2 with custom coding and other bits…It has a bit of torque 😜
G’day to all other Golf lovers 👍
Since Saab died,I've had great luck with Golfs.My (US spec 7.5) is just so easy to live with.And ease itself can be a bit of fun.Aren't VW's generally rare in Oz? I hardly saw any when I lived in Melbourne and later Adelaide.Oddly,I think I saw more Citroens.Great country,though.All I disliked were the flies and having to leave.
Volkswagen has to give its designers the freedom to save Volkswagen from itself.
I love the brand but you are correct.
I'm 62. My first car was a Mk2 GTI, purchased in 1984. My second car was a Mk3 Golf, purchased in 1995. And my current car is a Brazilian made Mk4 GTI VR6, purchased in late 2002. I've had my 2003 GTI VR6 now going on 22 years as my daily driver, and this car has been more reliable than a Toyota or Lexus!
My dad had golfs(5,5variant,6variant,7variant,7.5variant) as a company car. Loved every one of them
I had a MK 5 GT for 3 years ( it was 10 years old already ) but I loved it! As soon as I had enough money I bought a 2018 golf MK 7.5 R 😃 ( amazing! ) but I still have a fondness of my MK 5, just needed more power! 😂
In our video, we claim that the VW Golf is the most successful car in the world. Technically, the Toyota Corolla may have sold more units than the Golf. Yet its cult following around the world, we believe, can be said to make it the most successful car ever.
nobody gets excited about the Corolla
@@keithwalsh1882 Yes, that's also how we feel about it.
@@DWREVAlso why are you so down on German cars lately? A little while ago you ran a headline along the lines of 'why aren't German cars good anymore', quoting Consumer Reports etc (a debatable source IMO) yet CR just declared BMW the most reliable brand. I think you should calm down the hyperbolic headlines, the German auto industry has what it takes to succeed and is doing just that.
If you ask the average American, they've never heard of Golf, aside from the sport. Aside from a blip in the 80s, Golf has been a non-player in the world's (now) second-largest market.
@@michaels.8386The Golf GTI is the definitive 'hot-hatch' even in the USofA
Adore my mk8 GTI.
Even more than my mk7, which I also adored.
VW dropped quality in favour of greed and cheating on emissions. To this day they haven’t really atoned for their failures. I used be in favour of VW as a reliable vehicle manufacturer having had three Golf’s. Now, I’d never touch any VW. There are better options and other manufacturers are beating VW hands down on price, quality, reliability and value. Made in Germany is sadly now synonymous with cheap materials, poor quality and poor value for money.
Couldn’t agree more, especially after working for VW. Absolutely terrible vehicles designed to fail due to poorly manufactured parts same with Audi and Porsche. Unfortunately worked for all three brands so much for German cars being reliable.
They all cheated, but VW took the hit for it.
Are you OK?
@@mariusmeiliulis1761he seem mad
Hey. My 2017 Wolf touareg is a beast. And as "old" as it is. Everything about it still feels brand new. I love the build quality on that thing.
Greetings from Cape Town, South Africa. My brother bought himself a Citi Golf recently and he loves it. Although I cant drive because was blind from birth, I love it too. I also love the Mk4, Mk5 and Mk6 generations of the Golf for it's fuel-injected 1.6l naturally aspirated 4 cylinder petrol engine
I’ve got 2 GTI’s, an 07 mk5 and a 23 mk8. Love both.
I had a 1983 cabriolet. The love of my life, so much fun. There is an electric future for the Golf, the ergonomics just make sense.
In Brazil the Golf lauched only in 1993 in the mk3 GTI 2.0 8V 2 doors version, imported from Mexico.
1 Year later came the 4 doors GLX 2.0 8V from Mexico too, and a 4 doors GL 1.8 8V from Germany.
Only in 2000 began the manufacturing the mk4 in Brazil.
Yes, and it's NOT the same car as the Gol (01:38 mark).
It was a good car. A friend of mine had the 3rd generation, also made in Mexico, which was built together with the Vento, a Golf with trunk just. Both very comfortable and reliable by then!
The original was very beautiful.
Wish VW would offer the regular Golf in the US again, at least they still have the GTI and R.
I love my 20th anniversary Golf 8R!!!! Truly an amazing bit of kit and fits my daily routine as well as track days.
This video is a pathetic marketing attempt to persuade people that VW is still in the game. Overpriced cars with the outdated technology clearly lost the competition to Korean and Japanese companies. To me the future of VW strongly reminds the history of Nokia. Reliance on the established technology and failure to predict the future industry development.
VW will be fine. It’s the Japanese carmakers that need to worry about their overpriced, outmoded vehicles at this point. Quality control and pricing are not enough.
Octavia from Škoda took over in past years, that being said Its Still VW
It's 2024 and here in South Africa the Vw Golf and VW brand is loved and will be loved for generations. It's simply in our DNA, what kept the flame in most of us burning amid all the issues we face.
1984 Rabbit Convertible here says hello to everybody 👋🏼
And grazie mille Giorgetto!
Had my '83 GTI Mk1 since 1988 and it's still a hoot to own and drive. It's simple but well engineered, easy to maintain and a great design. Cars of today are too complex, too expensive and have far too much reliance on electrical systems.
I have a MK7.5 Golf R, my favorite car ever. It always brings a smile to my face with the way it drives, the sound and the size and shape of the car.
The Golf is no longer imported to the USA. I hope VW changes their business model and starts importing Golf S,SE, Wolfsburg Only the GTI and the R models are coming now. Why? I've owned 2 great cars.
We'd love to know more about your experiences with the Golf!
Good Job DW! I Love VW Golf MK 1, 2, 3.
Thanks, glad you liked it! Please pass it on to a friend.
It's understandable that VW is trying to embrace its heritage by releasing electric versions of legacy models. However, it's doubtful that they can truly capture the magic of, say, the Beetle or the Golf with the materials in use today. If petrol becomes too expensive or less readily available, there could be a substantial market in the future for converting classic legacy vehicles to electric power.
I have my doubts. An EV conversion will always have lower range because there is not sufficient space to fit a decent sized battery in an older car. That's why EV conversions of older vehicles usually have a range no more in the 160 km (100 miles) range. The next-generation Golf will be designed around a much bigger battery pack in lieu of a internal combustion engine, and that means a range more in the 400 km (248 miles) range at minimum.
@@Sacto1654 VW actually had City Strom electric versions of classic Golfs. And even ancient RWD "luftboxer" cars. They were rubbish. But they did exist.
@@Sacto1654The next elctric Golf will probably be a Golf looking and Golf named version of the ID.2. With only the name related to fossile cars.
@@Sacto1654 A range of 150 km would be just fine for many , especially if it was the last viable option. Conversions are still way too expensive anyhow.
Batteries will become smaller with more power
Mk7.5 is the pinnacle of Golf, period.
Trip to Dubrovnik was amazing because what seemed in 2022 to be the most popular car was the mark 2 golf. Not as a collectors item but just an everyday car. Was amazed. Even the odd mark 1.
I was in Greece a few times over the last few years, and I was shocked at how many MK4 VW's I saw there! If you go to Athens, you will marvel at the sheer numbers of specifically MK4 VW's on the road there! I spoke to a local mechanic there, and he told me that mechanically, the MK4's are the soundest and most reliable VW's ever built! They were probably the last generation of VW's that didn't have too much computerized tech on board, and they spend a lot less time in the repair garage as their latter counterparts.
He says that the Golf is classless but that is old, that was only true in the past in the 1970s-1990s. Today it is a more middle income car, and the vintage old ones are indeed classless but that is for all vintage cars unless they are high value.
I am using every day my Golf 3. And I love it ))
The base Golf just got canceled in several countries, including the U.S., where we have only the GTI and R. Last time I checked, Mexico doesn't have ANY Golf models available anymore!
For now. But once the new EV Golf enters production, I expect it to be built at VW's huge Puebla plant, and that means we'll see the Golf and Jetta model range in EV form.
Nobody wants them
@@whcwcjecjecuecuw6654 People don't want EVs despite all forcing and menaces, that's clear from sales. Some people want explicitly TESLAS, the rest (~85-90% of buyers) want ICE cars and won't buy anything else. It's that simple. And Volkswagens are a has-been no matter which engine. Cause they are unreliable crap.
@@Sacto1654 Nobody wants an EV, except the govts that force them on the consumers!
As an ex GTi owner, and still a current VW product driver I pose a (few) statement(s). If VW hadn't made such a mess of the Mk8, they wouldn't have to commission production of these type of videos. In my opinion the Mk8's exterior and interior have veered so far off the legendary Golf's signature looks, that I've a feeling, that sales of the Mk8 are bad. And it's so typical of VW to remind us of their history whenever sales become bad, appealing for sales this type of way. This is a matter of my opinion only of course.
I STILL haven't warmed up to the Mk8 GTI and I've had years to look and study it. Mk7 is far more captivating.
Mk7 was great. Mk1 and 2 the best and mk4 the setting of upper class
Well, let's look at the reliability/durability and affordability of the Golf over the years- high prices with less quality, more problematic and poor resale. VW & Germany has lost that idea
I bought a new VW Scirocco in 1980 and loved it. its a Golf with different body,. Put Koni shocks headers and Abarth exhaust system on it,. Drove it coast to coast twice and kept it until 1991. I wish I still had it. It got 35 MPG cruising at 70 mph in 5th gear. Easy to fix and maintain. also put a electronic ignition in it, the CIS injection system was faultless.
I had an 84 Rabbit L in the early 90s. I loved it dearly with OEM parts, yet it just kept breaking (despite not being that old).
Changed over to an 86 325es and later an 88 325is (both with stick) and never went back to anything VW again.
In 1982 when I got my first real job I still drove my high school car. A 1959 Plymouth Belvedere. They gave me a Golf! From a sleek spaceship to a little boxshaped thing where everything was manual. Much like a Ford Model A. No wonder I felt downgraded. But 42 years later that Golf still sits in my carport. So yes I guess there was something good about it afterall. The Plymouth is there as well, aged 65 by now and it's still the better car by far. But I digress. I never expexted the little box with the waferthin materials to last long but it's still around. Good jump little Rabbit!
We'd love to see that '59 Belvedere of yours. It must really turn some heads when you take it out for a spin!
@@DWREV I could send you a piccie if you forward a emailadress.
You can send it to this address: rev.community@dw.com
The same goes for anyone else who wants to send us a pic or a story!
Fully enjoyed this video I own a golf gti mk5 GTI l have also owned the mk2/mk3 :mk4 l GTI a bit more don’t tell the S3😂 l
Also own a vw transporter T5 sportline love that to love vw as a brand there’s something that’s special can’t say what it is that makes you go back for more there not as cheap as they once was which made them even more of a bargain vw have realise what they have. Great video to watch beautifully edited love it keep them coming 👏🏽👊🏽👍🏽💯🥂
Thanks! We love our talented video editors and they never get enough credit. We plan to post more great stuff, so keep checking back.
First car was a `79 VW Rabbit, loved it, miss it
I learned how to drive on that 1969 Beatle and bee in love ever since!!!!!
Most successful car ? Then what about Corolla , Civic ?
Note: Post my comment. This channel changed the title from “Most Successful Car” to “Most Successful European Car” !!
The Honda Civic was the asian Golf. The Ford Focus tried to be the american Golf. But it never really made it.
The Corolla is the highest selling car of all time. According to Goodwood, Golf comes in at #3 - a long way behind the Corolla.
To be fair, the title does say European car
@@P_FamilyJARThe narrator though is saying something very different in the introduction "most successful car in the world".
Don't rely on DW (ever) to be correct. It is funded by the German state. It's a messy thing.
The Golf 4 remains my favorite. I've had a few in the past. My recently purchased Skoda Fabia 4 evokes the same feeling in terms of dimensions and experience.
Car good, price bad..
😅
The Brazilian Gol that is mentioned had nothing to do with the Golf, the golf was only introduced in 1994
You meant to say “the GOL was only introduced in 1994”?
@@tmajec No, he said right. The Golf was an imported car in Brazil. He was loved by everyone but it was very expensive, it wasn't a popular car like in some countries.
@@danleitecamargo Sounds good. thanks for the correction .
Wannabe Polo
Por favor DW traduzcan este reportaje al español, somos miles los fanáticos del VW Golf que nos encantaría tener este documental en español.¡Gracias! 😊
8:40 "the wait was up to 6 month" That was quick, I waited 14 month for Skoda Enyaq in 2022.
In Canada, some toyota's have a 2 to 3 years wait period...Crazy!
@@theadvocate4698I once went to a Mitsubishi dealership to look at the new PHEV Outlander, and the salesperson told me they have Toyota to thank for their increased sales because many of their customers are people who couldn’t get a RAV4 Prime with its 2+year wait list
Why would you put yourself on a waitlist for a skoda?
@@bvedant Because Europe is back in the dark communist era, this time with the EUSSR, waiting years for a Skoda is "trendy" again.
@@bvedantbecause it's the most reliable car you can buy.
In my country, the Golf is seen more as a premium car because it's relatively expensive here. Most of the people who buy it are people who cant afford the GTi so they buy the regular Golf and modify to look like GTi and pretend they're driving the GTi.
Mexico has their own hystory arround the golf too, The MK1 was launched in the late 70´s as Caribe offering a GTI´s version called Caribe GT instead of fuel injection the car has a carburetor and has a rich legacy as the "Mexican GTI".Late the car was launched as Golf when the MK2 was offered in Mexico. As in every country the car has a reputation of reliable and good car even today the golf is a car for VW´s lovers who love add GTI emblems and accesories related to the original model and of course choosing for love and nostalgia into the families who grow with one and they keep good memories of it.
Thanks for that. And I see the Caribe had an impressive ten-year run in Mexico!
VW Golf Mk1 "Monacoblau" DIESEL 1983 between 1994 - 2005 From Gothenburg - Sweden to Murmansk in Russia and back !
Giugiaro the greatest car designer ever….. I own one his masterpiece design of the GT-Veloce at very young age when worked for Bertone!
I purchased my First VW a 2002 VW Bora V5 (Jetta) 5 speed manual what a great car in 6 years nothing has Gone wrong oil water and petrol and a Yearly inspection and so Quiet
i have my golf 1 convertible for a very long time and i love the car
The power of narrative is never to be underestimated. To call it the most successful model ever is a big of stretch, but hey, nobody is perfect, not even DW.
I've owned a Golf, Jetta and (my favorite) the Cabriolet. Simple, practical and nice cars.
A great story of the VW Golf all over the world wow 50 years same age as me this year👌👌👌👌
Glad you liked it. Please pass it on to a friend!
I love hot hatches. Wish Honda continued evolving its Civic with a true hatchback variant like the Golf. The Golf is the perfect size for today’s daily needs. The GTI is on my radar as my next daily driver - unless Honda makes a comeback with a true hot-hatch.
I hope that the Golf lives on because, selfishly, there is no other car that combines all the elements of performance, comfort, safety, and quality like it does. When you include how functional a hatchback is, there really is no other car that does what it does as well as it does.
After 2003, VW tried to make it more family car and that's when everything went wrong. Golf is no longer golf
you're so wrong and why do you think, golf wasn't family car even before 2003? it can be whatever you want, that the thing with golf, and this hasn't changed in last 50 years, i would say mk7 was there one of the finest models, for example . one of the best if nor the best kept design evolution of any car in the history. i don't think any brand can tops that.
The best model of Golf is the Plus and Sportsvan versions - somewhat higher than the basic model - makes it very comfortable and roomy for its size.
More than 50 million Corollas have been sold world wide.
With 50 million bored customers
I agree that the Golf story is a great one. However, the Golf 8 is the most anaemic, interventionist and soulless appliance of a car I’ve ever had the displeasure of driving. It may resemble a Golf 1 but it’s so far removed from the original that the connection between the two is more imagined - confected, even - than real.
I have one :). Last year Golf celebrated his 40 years of solid age :). Opinions are different about it.
All my relatives hate it, except my son and wife... Now it is harder to maintain, because of rust e.t.c.
We'd love to see some photographs of your beloved 40-year-old Golf. Feel free to email us on rev.community@dw.com
@@DWREV Thank you! :) My Golf is not the most beautiful of course, but maybe I can make some pictures :). Thank you for invitation to the Club :). I will think about it.
Good video! :)
We're happy you liked it! Please pass it on to a friend.
Still looks good.
I think its absolutely crazy how much ground clearance the old Golf and other cars had back in the day. Now they are all so impractical and slammed to the ground.
They just aren't made for a majority of us in mind anymore. One of many reasons people keep buying crossovers and SUVs. Just basic usability.
nonsense, suvs are design mutants and have least practicality, any car designer will tell you that. and by they way, how many new golfs etc did you actualy try to drive or art least been into. every new model is basilicly bigger (and taller sometimes) then previous gen, ground clearance is not changing, at least to lower side (could happen with some sport editions etc, but that's logical).
I am very proud of my VW GTI.
Still a masterpiece of german engineering, but today the masterpiece is to make the costumer pay the car twice. Once for the new car and twice for the repair-bills during its life-span.😂Probably MK 2 and 4 were the best. As a used car buyer avoid at all costs the TSI and DSG junk, the epitome of planned obsolescense. Greetings from Germany.
There is an error in the video. The car from Brazil is the GOL, a poor cousin from Golf. It was launched in 1983 with air cooled engine and was a total failure. In 1985 VW decide to use the water cooled 1.5 , and very soon changed to the 1.6, and was a success. Gol was the best seller in Brazil to years. GOLF came in 1993 as a imported car, and became "nacional" in the mk 4 generation. It was very superior but more expensive than GOL, and because of that was never a "best seller" in Brazil.
please what is the name of songs in the background of this video
The Golf mk4 was famous and beloved here in morocco 🇲🇦
Im moving soon to germany for ausbildung and im planning to bring my Golf MK1 Cabriolet karmann with me and i don’t know if its possible to register it there or not 🤔
I dont care about the emissions scandal. Bring back the TDIs and improve the quality.
👌🙂
In Mexico we also love Golf. I had 5 of them myself 😂
VW (and DW) should look into the new generation VW Polo "Vivo" in South Africa. It has taken over from the Golf Mk 1 and has been the bestselling vehicle here for many years. It is also a lower cost version of the regular VW Polo, much like the Citi Golf. I still have a Citi Golf and will never get rid of it. I notice that their values are rising exponentially! 😊
Thanks for the tip! We'll keep that in mind.
In numbers the fiat 124 is Lada 1200 2104 fso polonez fso classic etc etc. But since it is communist countries' ehm giving presents (barter deals is the business term) it is doubtful if these are units sold. But no doubt in numbers worldwide it is biggest in its time, one also have to compensate for total sales of course in a particular decade.
The mark 1 Golf is almost more Italian than German. Designed by an Italian and its front wheel drive system copied from the FIAT 128.
Dr Sunta Templeton there with one of the best narrations of one of the best vehicles to ever grace our screens and planet……
Jeremy Clarkson owns a GTI. Enough said
It seemed "unexceptional" until I saw the more recent offerings by VW (T-Roc, ID3). Now I appreciate how truly awesome this car is, and it's sad that it will likely be replaced by these newer design disasters.
Great car brilliant advertising
Bring back 3 door manual 😢
Bring back the MK I to the world again, and people will once again buy them in droves. They are a timeless classic at an affordable price.
The ironic about building very reliable Golfs with body panels and chassis that are thoroughly coated with antirust materials decades ago is that many owners end up not willing to buy a brand new Golf after 20 years of owning the old one. So, when VW decides to scale down on materials so that newer generations of Golfs will not survive their 9th or 10th year of ownership, ppl will have to scrap them, go to VW dealers and sign a new auto financing/leasing agreement to get their brand new rides, it's understandable why many customers are truly p*ssed really bad over the decline of quality materials, fit and finish and reliability of all-new cars made by VW. The company are desperately seeking people of the current era to buy their cars in droves just like what their granddads, dads, uncles, moms, grannies and aunts used to do during the economic miracle eras.
In retrospective, i think Koreans, Italians and Mainland Chinese cars are truly visionary in their automotive business acumen. Selling cars with below-average reliability scores (except for their engine blocks) in tens of millions during 1980s until 2010s are the best way to ensure profits always goes into the companies' bank accounts and help offsetting losses from selling unpopular models.
A firend of mine has his gti tattooed in his arm.
By the way vw, when can we expect the new vershion of Golf with manual transmiton in MX
? Mine is 12 years old I a need a new one.
Thanks for uploading such clips again. Germans are know for their over engineering but GOLF wasn't. So keep it that way in my opinion. If I may ask that VW reproduce some original models, would sell fast. Again originality speeks.
I love my black VW Golf 8. ❤
Watching this to stoke myself up to go and fix my mk4 - again 😄
very good document
Improperly prepared documentary. It only features footage from the first and second generations of golf. Additionally, it includes a polo commercial intended for Mexico or Brazil as if it were about golf. More attention to detail is needed.
The Golf/Rabbit is so cute 🥰
Volkwagen now the *Rich people's car, that's the problem.
Well, the TFSI, FSI era didn't won. Was a lemon!