VW celebrates the Golf’s 40th anniversary this year and VW tuner ABT has reasons to celebrate too. The German aftermarket specialist offered its first spiced-up version of the VW Golf in 1982, a year before the launch of the second-generation compact model.
Using the VW Golf GTI Mk1 as a starting point, ABT added a 7-inch widebody kit and a performance package that upgraded the standard GTI’s 1.8-liter engine from 108hp (110PS) to 161hp (163PS), thanks to the addition of a KKK exhaust gas turbocharger from the Audi Quattro.
Boasting a power-to-weight ratio of 5.2 kg/hp (11.4 lbs/hp), ABT’s Golf GTI was able to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.8 seconds, making it only 0.3 seconds slower to 100 km/h than the current 220PS VW Golf GTI Mk7.
Obviously, engine tuning involved more than just adding a turbocharger, with ABT using high-end components like autothermal pistons and a special crankshaft. The tuner also modified the suspension and added wheel spacers made of steel. The alloy wheels were shod with wide-base tires, for 1982 at least: 205/60R13.
Interior upgrades featured a white-leather sport-type steering wheel and various additional instruments. The price for all these goodies? 15,000 Deutsch Marks, or about €7,700.
By Dan Mihalascu
PHOTO GALLERY
