bhp: Volkswagen Golf GTI – the ultimate hot hatch

After a couple of months of research and checking the available options out there, I have come to a conclusion. In my opinion, the VW Golf GTI is probably the ultimate hot hatch (otherwise known as a sporty hatchback). Not just any GTI though. In the case of the Golf GTI, I have to say only the Mk2 and Mk5 are worth any thought.

For folks who prefer something not so ancient, the out-going (2003 – 2009) Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk5 2.0 FSI DSG is probably the best bet. Delivering 200bhp, it’s the best GTI to come along after the disappointments of the Mk3 and Mk4. Sure there is the latest (2009) Mk6 but which delivers 10 additional horses and 10 percent better fuel economy. Yet, I will stick with the Mk5. I’m not sure why VW dropped the round tail-lights on the Mk5 for the current dull lines on the Mk6.

Fifth Gear – Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk5

Fifth Gear – Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk5 (2004 Car of the Year)

If a classic GTI appeals, the Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk2 has to be the best in it’s class for a car from the 80′s. Though not yet a classic, the legendary Mk2 definitely has the makings of one and is well on it’s way there. With raw power and sportiness, the Mk2 will appeal to drivers looking for a fine piece of machinery unfouled by the latest technical gadgetry. Obvious to say, ABS, airbags, ESP or any other form of traction control are not options.

Fifth Gear – Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk2 (Making the Best Better – Pt1)

Fifth Gear – Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk5 (Making the Best Better – Pt2)

If the Golf GTI interests you, there is a rather decent article of the Mk1 – Mk5 on sgcarmart. Unless you prefer to drive in fuel guzzling mode in the rev range of 5,000rpm all the time, 150bhp is pretty much more than we’ll ever need nippy around town and cruising on the expressways. This, the Mk2 will deliver. The 200bhp on the Mk5 is aplenty. My search would end here if I was only interested in hatchbacks. I have since expanded my search to include compact executives, executives and luxury cars.

This entry was posted on Saturday, September 19th, 2009 at 08:37 and is filed under automobiles, videos and tagged with abs airbags, golf gti mk2, golf gti mk5, hot hatch, sgcarmart, technical gadgetry, volkswagen golf, volkswagen golf gti, volkswagen golf gti mk2, vw golf gti. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.