The Volkswagen Golf II 1.6 TD, produced from 1987 to 1991, represented a practical and fuel-efficient option within the second-generation Golf lineup. This five-door hatchback, often seen as a facelifted version of the earlier Golf II models (specifically the 1HX0/A3 platform), was aimed at buyers prioritizing economy and reliability over outright performance. It occupied a middle ground in the Golf II range, positioned below the gasoline-powered variants and above the base diesel models. The 1.6 TD offered a balance between affordability and the benefits of a turbocharged diesel engine, making it a popular choice in European markets where diesel fuel was readily available and often less expensive than gasoline.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf II (5-door, facelift 1987) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TD (70 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.1 kg/Hp, 71.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm, 135 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 70 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 44.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 133 Nm @ 2500-2900 rpm (98.1 lb.-ft. @ 2500-2900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | JR |
| Engine displacement | 1588 cm3 (96.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.4 mm (3.4 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 23:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 985 kg (2171.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1465 kg (3229.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 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 | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| Length | 3985-4040 mm (156.89 – 159.06 in.) |
| Width | 1665-1680 mm (65.55 – 66.14 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 (turning diameter) | 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; 185/60 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 13; 6J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Golf II 1.6 TD was the JR engine code, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine equipped with a turbocharger and indirect injection. This engine utilized a precombustion chamber injection system, a common design for diesel engines of the era. Fuel was injected into a small precombustion chamber within the cylinder head, where it was partially ignited before entering the main combustion chamber. This design aided in smoother combustion and reduced engine noise. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. The turbocharger, a Garrett unit in many cases, significantly boosted power output compared to naturally aspirated diesel engines, bringing the output to 70 horsepower at 4500 rpm and 133 Nm (98.1 lb-ft) of torque between 2500 and 2900 rpm. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 23:1 was typical for turbocharged diesels of the time. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a reasonable spread of gears for efficient cruising and acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The Golf II 1.6 TD, with its 70 horsepower and 133 Nm of torque, offered modest but usable performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 14.5 seconds, and top speed was approximately 160 km/h (99 mph). While not a sporty performer, the turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power at lower engine speeds, making it relatively easy to keep up with traffic. The 5-speed manual transmission allowed for efficient highway cruising, and the engine’s torque characteristics meant that it didn’t require frequent gear changes. Compared to the gasoline-powered Golf II models, the 1.6 TD offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of acceleration and overall refinement. It was noticeably slower than the 1.8-liter gasoline versions, and the diesel engine was inherently noisier and produced more vibrations.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Golf II 1.6 TD typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features included cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout, and manual windows and door locks. Power steering and central locking were often optional extras. The interior was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Depending on the market, different trim levels were available, offering upgrades such as upgraded upholstery, alloy wheels, and a more comprehensive stereo system. However, the 1.6 TD was generally positioned as an entry-level or mid-range model, so it rarely featured the same level of luxury as the higher-spec Golf II variants.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf II 1.6 TD utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an elastic beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride and predictable handling, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. 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, providing reasonably precise steering feel. The curb weight of around 985 kg (2171.55 lbs) contributed to the car’s relatively nimble handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Golf II 1.6 TD was well-received in European markets as a practical and economical family car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and reliability, but noted its modest performance and relatively basic interior. Compared to the gasoline-powered Golf II models, the 1.6 TD offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for drivers covering long distances. However, it was slower and less refined. Compared to other diesel-powered cars in its class, the Golf II 1.6 TD offered a good balance of performance, economy, and practicality. It was often seen as a more refined and better-handling alternative to some of its competitors.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Golf II 1.6 TD has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable vehicle. Many examples are still on the road today, testament to the quality of its engineering and construction. The JR engine, while not particularly powerful, is known for its longevity and relatively simple maintenance requirements. In the used car market, the Golf II 1.6 TD is often sought after by enthusiasts looking for a classic Volkswagen that is both affordable and practical. Its fuel efficiency and simple mechanicals make it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and economical classic car.
