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Changing the long-lasting Beetle was a tough process for Volkswagen. The model experimented with dozens of prototypes, many various drivetrain layouts, and a number of approaches to design from the evolutionary to the revolutionary. The tip outcome was the primary Golf, which entered manufacturing on March 29, 1974 in Wolfsburg, Germany. Ultimately, the small hatchback was precisely the best automobile on the proper time.
The transition from Beetle to Golf was seismic; The Golf's four-cylinder engine was mounted transversely on the entrance and was water-cooled. It was mild years forward of its predecessor when it comes to ergonomics attributable to its comparatively spacious inside, usable trunk and hatch, and its boxy, Giugiaro-penned silhouette introduced it according to Nineteen Seventies design developments. And but, the Golf didn’t crush the Beetle: the Beetle existed in some European markets within the Nineteen Eighties, and continued manufacturing with minor modifications in Puebla, Mexico till 2003.
Volkswagen didn’t create the blueprint for town automobile as we all know it at present. Lesser-known fashions such because the Autobianchi Primula (1964) and Simca 1100 (1967) supplied a transversely-mounted engine and a sensible hatch earlier than officers gave the Golf the inexperienced mild for manufacturing. Nonetheless, the model deserves credit score for perfecting and popularizing the idea. Equally, Volkswagen didn’t invent the new hatch: Autobianchi's A112 Abarth in 1971, nearly two years after the common A112, opted for each “sizzling” and “hatch” packing containers. That stated, the unique Golf GTI helped democratize the concept that even a easy financial system automobile might go round a observe like hell.
Deliveries of the Golf started in July 1974 and Volkswagen quickly expanded the vary. Past the aforementioned GTI, which made its debut in 1976, the lineup grew to incorporate a diesel-powered mannequin launched the identical 12 months, a two-door convertible launched in 1979, and a sporty GTD model launched in 1982. Motorists instantly took discover; Volkswagen produced the 1 millionth first technology Golf in October 1976. Whereas the hatchback physique fashion bought very effectively in most European markets, the Golf additionally spawned the Jetta for individuals who most popular sedans.
America acquired golf with out even getting golf. Gross sales in the USA started for the 1975 mannequin 12 months, however Volkswagen gave the Rabbit nameplate to the Beetle's successor. At launch, consumers can select between a two-door hatchback or a four-door hatchback. Energy initially got here from a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 70 horsepower and 81 pound-feet of torque, though the 1976 mannequin 12 months introduced a 1.6-liter 4. The bottom value of the 1975 Rabbit was $3,330, whereas the bottom value of the bottom Beetle was $2,999 (these figures symbolize round $19,300 and $17,300, respectively, in 2024). Rabbit manufacturing in Westmoreland, Pennsylvania started in 1978 and was remodeled right into a small pickup referred to as the Caddy.
The second technology Golf took up the torch in 1983. It stood other than its predecessor with a broadly up to date design, nevertheless it remained immediately recognizable as a Golf. Volkswagen bought a good wider vary of fashions this time: it notably supplied four-wheel-drive (referred to as Synchro) for the primary time in 1986, launched a homologation particular referred to as Rallye in 1989, and to create Cooperated with Steyr-Daimler-Puch. Off-road prepared nation in 1990. The second-generation Golf made headlines in each Volkswagen showrooms and the brand new automobile market, however its predecessor wasn't able to take off simply but. It remained in manufacturing in South Africa because the Metropolis Golf till 2009.
Quick ahead to 2024, and the Golf has entered its eighth technology. Volkswagen has made roughly 37 million models of the Golf since March 29, 1974, and its historic Wolfsburg plant has produced about 20 million of them. This mannequin has been one of many best-selling automobiles in Europe for many years.
Just like the Beetle, the Golf steadily transcended its standing as a type of transportation and earned a spot in standard tradition. In Europe, nearly everybody has a golf-related story. I can inform you a few of my very own: Considered one of my earliest reminiscences is of my aunt taking my household to and from a railway station in her mild blue second technology diesel mannequin. I used to be 3 years outdated. Practically 30 years later, and after greater than a decade working at air-cooled Volkswagens, I turned a Golf proprietor for the primary time once I bought a non-running 1990 CL two-door mannequin as a mission automobile.
Blissful Birthday, Golf!