The Volkswagen Golf Mk2, produced from 1983 to 1992, represented a significant evolution of the original Golf, offering improved aerodynamics, a more spacious interior, and a wider range of engine options. The 1.6-liter (70 hp) variant, particularly the 3-door facelift model introduced in 1987, occupied an entry-level position within the Mk2 Golf lineup. Produced from 1987 through 1991, this model aimed to provide affordable and economical transportation, appealing to a broad customer base seeking practicality and Volkswagen’s renowned build quality. It was a mainstay in European markets, where compact hatchbacks were – and continue to be – incredibly popular.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf II (3-door, facelift 1987) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (70 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 162 km/h (100.66 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp, 77.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm, 130.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 70 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 43.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 118 Nm @ 2700 rpm (87.03 lb.-ft. @ 2700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | PN |
| 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 | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 905 kg (1995.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 515 kg (1135.38 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%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 470 kg (1036.17 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 (Back) 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 and type of gearbox | 5 gears, 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 | 175/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Golf variant was the Volkswagen PN engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline 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 PN engine relied on a carburetor for fuel delivery, a cost-saving measure for the entry-level trim. This carburetor setup, while simpler, resulted in slightly lower performance and increased emissions compared to fuel-injected counterparts. The engine produced 70 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) of torque at 2700 rpm. The engine’s relatively low compression ratio of 9:1 was typical for the era and allowed it to run on lower octane fuel readily available in most markets. The engine was transversely mounted, a layout common in front-wheel-drive vehicles, contributing to efficient packaging within the Golf’s compact footprint.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter Golf Mk2 with a manual transmission offered modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 13.4 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 100 mph. The five-speed manual gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing adequate ratios for everyday driving. While not sporty, the Golf offered predictable handling and a comfortable ride. Compared to the more powerful GTI or diesel variants, the 1.6 felt noticeably slower, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. However, its lighter weight and simpler engine contributed to better fuel economy, making it a practical choice for commuters and those prioritizing efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6-liter Golf in its base trim was fairly spartan, reflecting its position as the entry point to the Mk2 range. Standard features typically included cloth upholstery, basic instrumentation, and manual windows and door locks. The interior was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded stereo system, and central locking. The facelift models (1987 onwards) featured a slightly revised dashboard and interior trim compared to earlier Mk2s, offering a more modern appearance.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf Mk2 utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The rear suspension employed a torsion beam setup, a cost-effective solution that offered reasonable handling characteristics. Braking was handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. While adequate for everyday driving, the drum brakes on the rear limited overall braking performance compared to all-disc setups found on higher-spec models. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6-liter Golf Mk2 was generally well-received as an affordable and reliable family car. Critics praised its practicality, build quality, and fuel efficiency. However, its modest performance was often noted, particularly when compared to more powerful Golf variants or competitors like the Ford Escort and Opel Astra. The 1.6 offered a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a no-frills, dependable hatchback. The diesel variants, while more expensive initially, offered superior fuel economy, while the GTI provided a significantly more engaging driving experience.
Legacy
The 1.6-liter Golf Mk2 has proven to be a remarkably durable and long-lasting vehicle. Many examples are still on the road today, a testament to Volkswagen’s engineering and build quality. While not as sought-after as the GTI or diesel models, the 1.6 remains a popular choice for classic car enthusiasts and those seeking a simple, reliable, and affordable vintage hatchback. Its carburetor-equipped engine requires regular maintenance, but parts availability remains relatively good. In the used car market, these models are typically priced lower than their more powerful siblings, making them an accessible entry point into classic Volkswagen ownership.
