VW Golf mk4 Turbo

The VW Golf mk4 GTi 1.8T was available from 1998 in the UK until replacement by the VW Golf mk5 GTi 2.0TFSi in 2004.  Although similar in spec to the 125bhp 1.8 GTi non turbo and the 2.0 8v GTi its 20v 150bhp turbo engine sets it apart as the performance choice.  With lots of torque it feels faster than the 150bhp suggests, pulling strong from low in the rev range covering the 0-60 dash in 8.5 seconds and going on to a 134mph max.  The engine lends itself to further tuning with upgrades to the intercooler, turbo, performance exhausts and air filters.  As with most turbo charged cars quick and safe performance increases are available with relatively simple chip upgrades.  The interior can sport Recaro seats or VWs own sport seat, both give additional lateral support when cornering compared to the lesser Golf models.  A good looking three spoke leather steering wheel was standard along with black wood inserts to parts of the centre console and gear knob.  Standard alloy wheels are 16” with meagre 205/55/16 tyres.  Alloy wheels styles and sizes are a personal choice but option to upgrade are numerous.  The VW Golf mk4 manages to accommodate up to 19” comfortably in its arches and even 20”+ seen on some show cars.  To keep the car usable maintaining a decent ride quality 18” with 225/40/18 tyres is an excellent compromise.  The suspension as standard can wallow a little especially if the car has covered a few miles.  Suspension lowering springs are a quick fix reducing body roll when cornering.  Full Golf mk4 suspension kits are a better option and inexpensive.  The suspension kit includes lowering springs and uprated shock absorbers. The anniversary models are sought after by enthusiasts and sure to become modern classics with many tasty additions to the interior, suspension upgrade and unique alloy wheels style.  Any 1.8T Golf still makes sense today with great build, performance and practicality it’s not hard to see why they remain so popular.