The Volkswagen Golf Mk1, produced from 1974 to 1983, represented a pivotal moment for the German automaker, transitioning Volkswagen away from the rear-engined, air-cooled Beetle. The 3-door 1.3-liter variant, specifically the 60 horsepower version available from 1979 to 1983, served as the entry point into the Golf range. This model played a crucial role in establishing the Golf as a practical, affordable, and modern hatchback for the European market, and later, a growing audience in North America. It was positioned as the most economical option, appealing to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and basic transportation over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf I (3-door) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 (60 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1979 |
| End of production | 1983 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 150 km/h (93.21 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.5 kg/Hp, 80 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm, 126.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 60 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 47.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 95 Nm @ 3500 rpm (70.07 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | GF |
| Engine displacement | 1272 cm3 (77.62 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75.01 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1170 kg (2579.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 420 kg (925.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 368 l (13 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1102 l (38.92 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 800 kg (1763.7 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Length | 3723 mm (146.57 in.) |
| Width | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Height | 1410 mm (55.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1389 mm (54.69 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1361 mm (53.58 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 124 mm (4.88 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10 m (32.81 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc, 238.76 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 180.34 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 5J x 13Rear wheel rims: 5J x 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 1.3-liter engine, designated the GF code, was a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder unit. It featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a single carburetor, a common setup for the time, prioritizing simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The engine produced 60 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 95 Nm (70.07 lb-ft) of torque at 3500 rpm. This power was transmitted to the front wheels through a four-speed manual transmission. The engine’s transverse mounting, a key feature of the Golf, contributed to its compact footprint and efficient packaging.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3-liter Golf was not known for its blistering performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 13.5 seconds, and the top speed was around 93 mph. However, it offered adequate power for everyday driving, particularly in urban environments. The four-speed manual transmission provided reasonable control, but the engine required frequent shifting to maintain momentum, especially when overtaking or climbing hills. Compared to the later 1.6-liter and GTI models, the 1.3 felt noticeably slower, but it offered a more economical driving experience. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency rather than outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base 1.3-liter Golf was relatively sparsely equipped, reflecting its position as the entry-level model. Standard features typically included cloth upholstery, basic instrumentation, and manual windows and door locks. Optional extras, such as a radio, upgraded seats, and a sunroof, were available, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to some extent. Interior trim was typically functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The dashboard layout was simple and straightforward, with easy-to-read gauges.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf Mk1 utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The 1.3-liter models typically featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. While adequate for the car’s performance, the braking system lacked the stopping power of the larger disc brake setups found on higher-spec models. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system, providing precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.3-liter Golf was well-received as an affordable and practical hatchback. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, handling, and overall build quality. However, its modest performance was often noted. Compared to other entry-level hatchbacks of the time, such as the Ford Fiesta and Opel Kadett, the Golf offered a more refined driving experience and a more spacious interior. The 1.6-liter Golf offered a noticeable performance upgrade, while the GTI provided a significantly more sporty driving experience, but at a higher price point. The 1.3’s fuel economy was a key selling point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Legacy
The 1.3-liter Golf Mk1, while not the most powerful or desirable version of the first-generation Golf, played a vital role in establishing the model’s reputation for reliability and practicality. The GF engine, while simple in design, proved to be relatively durable and easy to maintain. Today, these cars are increasingly sought after by classic car enthusiasts, particularly well-preserved examples. While rust can be a significant issue, the 1.3-liter Golf remains a relatively affordable entry point into the world of classic Volkswagen ownership. Parts availability is generally good, and the engine’s simplicity makes it relatively easy to repair. The 1.3 Golf represents a significant piece of automotive history, marking Volkswagen’s successful transition to a modern, front-wheel-drive platform.
