The Volkswagen Golf II, produced from 1983 to 1992, represented a significant evolution of the original Golf, solidifying Volkswagen’s position in the compact hatchback market. The 3-door variant, particularly the 1.6-liter (75 hp) version paired with an automatic transmission, offered a practical and affordable entry point into the Golf range during its production run of 1983-1987. This configuration was aimed at buyers prioritizing ease of use and fuel economy over outright performance, fitting into the lower-mid range of the Golf II lineup. It served as a more accessible alternative to the sportier GTI models and the diesel-powered variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf II (3-door) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (75 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1983 |
| End of production | 1987 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 162 km/h (100.66 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm, 143.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 47 Hp/l |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 2500 rpm (92.2 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EZ |
| Engine displacement | 1595 cm3 (97.33 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77.4 mm (3.05 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3 l (3.17 US qt | 2.64 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 870 kg (1918.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 345 l (12.18 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1145 l (40.44 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Length | 3985 mm (156.89 in.) |
| Width | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Height | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2475 mm (97.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1427 mm (56.18 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1422 mm (55.98 in.) |
| Front overhang | 810 mm (31.89 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 700 mm (27.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.5 m (34.45 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 | 3 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Golf II variant is the Volkswagen EZ engine, a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder petrol engine. This engine utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Unlike later Golf models that embraced fuel injection, the 1.6 EZ engine relied on a carburetor for fuel delivery, a cost-saving measure that also contributed to its simplicity. The engine produced 75 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 125 Nm (92.2 lb-ft) of torque at 2500 rpm. The automatic transmission was a three-speed unit, designed for smooth, if not particularly rapid, gear changes. This transmission was chosen to provide a comfortable driving experience, especially in urban environments.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter automatic Golf II offered a decidedly relaxed driving experience. Acceleration was modest, taking around 15.2 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The three-speed automatic transmission, while providing convenience, meant that the engine often felt strained during overtaking maneuvers or when climbing hills. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 1.6, or the more powerful GTI models, this variant lacked a sporty feel. However, the automatic transmission did offer a smoother ride and reduced driver fatigue, making it a popular choice for city driving and longer journeys where outright performance wasn’t a priority. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency rather than acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Automatic Golf II typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features included cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout, and manual windows and door locks. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded stereo systems, and central locking. The interior trim was generally functional and durable, reflecting the car’s focus on practicality. The specific trim level could vary depending on the market, but generally, this variant represented an entry-level or mid-range offering within the Golf II range.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf II’s chassis featured an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an elastic beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. Braking was accomplished via disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The braking system was adequate for the car’s performance, but lacked the stopping power of the GTI models with their larger brakes. Stabilizer bars were typically fitted to improve handling, though their thickness could vary depending on the specific trim level.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6-liter automatic Golf II was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family car. Critics praised its fuel economy and ease of use, but noted its lack of performance compared to other Golf II variants. Compared to the 1.8-liter versions, the 1.6 offered slightly better fuel economy but less power. The diesel-powered Golfs provided even better fuel economy but were slower and noisier. The GTI models, with their more powerful engines and sport-tuned suspensions, were aimed at a different type of buyer altogether. The 1.6 Automatic filled a niche for those seeking a comfortable and economical hatchback.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Golf II 1.6 Automatic, while not the most exciting variant in the lineup, proved to be a reliable and durable car. The EZ engine, though carbureted, was relatively simple and easy to maintain. The automatic transmission, while not known for its sophistication, generally held up well over time. Today, these cars are increasingly sought after by classic car enthusiasts and collectors, particularly those looking for a well-preserved example of a 1980s hatchback. Parts availability is generally good, making them relatively easy to keep on the road. The 1.6 Automatic Golf II represents a significant piece of automotive history, embodying the practicality and affordability that made the Golf a global success.
