The Volkswagen Golf Mk2, produced from 1983 to 1992, represented a significant evolution of the original Golf, offering improved aerodynamics, a more refined interior, and a wider range of engine options. The 3-door facelift model introduced in 1987 brought subtle styling updates and continued the Golf’s reputation for practicality and reliability. Among the various configurations available, the 1.3-liter (55 hp) version with a 4-speed manual transmission occupied the entry-level position in the lineup, appealing to buyers seeking economical transportation. Production of this specific variant ran from 1987 to 1991.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf II (3-door, facelift 1987) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 (55 Hp) Manual 4-speed |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 151 km/h (93.83 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.1 kg/Hp, 62.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.1 kg/Nm, 109.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 55 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 43.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 97 Nm @ 3000 rpm (71.54 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | NZ |
| Engine displacement | 1272 cm3 (77.62 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 885 kg (1951.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 485 kg (1069.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 330 l (11.65 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%) | 800 kg (1763.7 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Length | 3985-4040 mm (156.89 – 159.06 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 track | 1422 mm (55.98 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 | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 155/65 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 5J x 13 |
INTRODUCTION
The Volkswagen Golf Mk2 1.3, particularly the 3-door facelift model, represented a cornerstone of affordable motoring in Europe during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Positioned as the entry point to the Golf range, it offered a practical and reliable package for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and low running costs. Built on the 1HX0/A3 platform, this variant was a common sight on European roads, serving as a dependable daily driver for a wide demographic. While not known for its performance, it provided a solid foundation for the Golf’s continued success.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Golf variant was the 1.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine, designated the NZ engine code. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port manifold injection system, a step up from the carbureted engines found in earlier Golfs, improving efficiency and driveability. The engine produced 55 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 97 Nm (71.54 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. The engine’s relatively simple design contributed to its robustness and ease of maintenance. Paired with the engine was a four-speed manual transmission, chosen for its cost-effectiveness and suitability for the engine’s power output. This transmission featured a conventional layout with synchromesh on all forward gears.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3-liter Golf Mk2 with a manual transmission offered a modest driving experience. Acceleration was leisurely, taking approximately 16.7 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The engine’s torque peak at 3000 rpm meant that it felt most responsive in the mid-range, making it suitable for everyday driving conditions. Compared to the more powerful Golf variants, such as the GTI or those equipped with larger engines, this version lacked outright performance. However, its lighter weight and efficient engine contributed to reasonable fuel economy. The four-speed gearbox provided adequate spacing between gears, but lacked the versatility of a five-speed transmission found in some higher-spec models. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency rather than spirited driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3-liter Golf Mk2 was typically equipped with basic but functional features. Standard equipment included cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout, and manual windows and door locks. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering ample space for passengers and cargo. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded stereo system, and central locking. The trim level was generally quite spartan, reflecting its position as the entry-level model. The focus was on providing a reliable and affordable vehicle rather than luxury or advanced features.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf Mk2 featured an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an elastic beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The front brakes were disc brakes, while the rear brakes were drum brakes, a common configuration for this class of vehicle at the time. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive control. The 155/65 R13 tires provided adequate grip for everyday driving conditions. The chassis was designed to balance comfort and handling, making it suitable for a wide range of driving situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.3-liter Golf Mk2 was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice. It was praised for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and ease of maintenance. However, it was often criticized for its lack of performance compared to other Golf variants. Compared to the 1.6-liter or 1.8-liter versions, the 1.3-liter engine felt underpowered, especially when fully loaded. The 1.6-liter offered a noticeable improvement in performance without a significant increase in fuel consumption. The diesel-powered Golfs, while slower in acceleration, offered even better fuel economy. Despite its limitations, the 1.3-liter Golf remained a popular choice for buyers seeking affordable transportation.
Legacy
The 1.3-liter Golf Mk2 has proven to be a remarkably durable vehicle. Many examples are still on the road today, testament to the quality of its engineering and construction. The NZ engine is known for its reliability, although regular maintenance is essential to ensure its longevity. In the used car market, these Golfs are often sought after by enthusiasts looking for a classic and affordable vehicle. While not a collector’s item in the same vein as the GTI models, the 1.3-liter Golf represents an important part of the Golf’s history and continues to provide reliable transportation for its owners.
