### The Golf's Revival In the world of hot hatches, few cars have managed to leave a lasting impression like the 1988 Volkswagen Golf. This unassuming German sedan may have started as an econohunk, but it evolved into a beast of a car, packing a punch that rivals its more expensive counterparts. With a 1.8-liter engine churning out 100 horsepower, the Golf's acceleration is nothing short of impressive. Zero to 60 in 10.5 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 17.8 seconds at 75 mph are testament to its raw power. But it's not just about straight-line speed; the Golf's handling is where it truly shines. Its responsive steering and predictable behavior make it a joy to drive, whether you're carving through city streets or cruising down the highway. ### A Well-Designed Cabin Inside, the Golf is a masterclass in simplicity and functionality. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of room ...
### The Golf’s Revival
In the world of hot hatches, few cars have managed to leave a lasting impression like the 1988 Volkswagen Golf. This unassuming German sedan may have started as an econohunk, but it evolved into a beast of a car, packing a punch that rivals its more expensive counterparts.
With a 1.8-liter engine churning out 100 horsepower, the Golf’s acceleration is nothing short of impressive. Zero to 60 in 10.5 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 17.8 seconds at 75 mph are testament to its raw power. But it’s not just about straight-line speed; the Golf’s handling is where it truly shines. Its responsive steering and predictable behavior make it a joy to drive, whether you’re carving through city streets or cruising down the highway.
### A Well-Designed Cabin
Inside, the Golf is a masterclass in simplicity and functionality. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of room for four adults and excellent visibility in all directions. The interior design is a symphony of German engineering, with high-quality materials and intuitive controls. The large instruments have easily readable markings, and the minor controls are thoughtfully designed, click-ing on and off firmly and deliberately.
### A Lasting Legacy
The 1988 Golf may have been built during a time when the hatchback market was in decline, but its impact on the automotive world cannot be overstated. It’s a testament to Volkswagen’s commitment to quality and performance, and it’s a car that continues to inspire enthusiasts to this day.
### Specifications
* Vehicle Type: front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 2-door hatchback
* PRICE Base/As Tested: $7990/$9670
* ENGINE inline-4, iron block and aluminum head, port fuel injection
* Displacement: 109 in 3 , 1781 cm 3
* Power: 100 hp @ 5400 rpm
* TRANSMISSION 5-speed manual
* DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 97.3 in Length: 158.0 in Curb Weight: 2250 lb
* C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 10.5 sec 1/4-Mile: 17.8 sec @ 75 mph Top Speed: 106 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 181 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.79 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 25 mpg EPA FUEL ECONOMY City: 25 mpg
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