INTRODUCTION
The 1987 Volkswagen GTI is a legendary hot hatch that continues to influence the compact performance car segment to this day. It’s celebrated for its balance of everyday practicality and spirited driving performance. With its fun-to-drive nature, affordability, and stylish design, the GTI embodies the essence of the hot hatch movement.
HISTORY & ORIGINS
The Volkswagen GTI was first introduced in 1976 as a sportier version of the Volkswagen Golf. By 1987, the GTI had firmly established itself as a key player in the compact performance market. The 1987 model marked the end of the second generation (Mark II) of the Golf, which was an improvement over the original in terms of comfort, technology, and performance. The 1987 GTI represented a mature iteration of the car, offering both performance and practicality to a growing audience.
ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS
The 1987 GTI was powered by a 1.8-liter, 8-valve, four-cylinder engine that delivered around 110 horsepower and 112 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, giving the GTI a lively driving experience. The car could accelerate from 0-60 mph in approximately 8.5 seconds. In terms of handling, the GTI benefited from a front-wheel-drive layout and a well-tuned suspension that offered excellent cornering ability for its time.
DESIGN & FEATURES
The 1987 Volkswagen GTI maintained the boxy, utilitarian look of the Golf series but featured sportier accents, including a distinctive front grille with the famous red trim, sportier bumpers, and wider tires. Inside, the GTI offered a driver-focused cockpit with sport seats, a thick-rimmed steering wheel, and minimalistic but functional controls. The interior also featured plaid upholstery, a signature touch for the GTI.
TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS
The 1987 Volkswagen GTI was offered in a single trim level but had two primary configurations: the 8-valve and the more performance-oriented 16-valve (introduced later in the model year). The 8-valve version, which was the standard model, was widely available, while the 16-valve GTI offered a bit more horsepower, making it a more premium performance option.
SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY
Safety features in the 1987 GTI were basic by today’s standards but still included features like front disc brakes, anti-lock brakes (on certain models), and a solid safety cage design. The car was equipped with standard seatbelts and a simple, effective safety setup, with little to no advanced electronic safety technologies. In terms of technology, the GTI featured an AM/FM radio and basic climate control, which were standard for cars of that era.
FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY
The 1987 Volkswagen GTI offered reasonable fuel efficiency for its performance capabilities. The 8-valve model achieved around 25-30 mpg in combined driving, while the 16-valve variant, which was slightly more powerful, could still manage similar numbers, making it a practical option for those who wanted a mix of performance and fuel efficiency.
MARKET COMPARISON
In 1987, the GTI was a strong competitor against other compact performance cars, such as the Honda Civic Si, the Ford Escort GT, and the Peugeot 205 GTI. The VW GTI was particularly known for its handling, balance, and European styling, standing out as a more sophisticated choice compared to some of its rivals. While the Civic Si had a reputation for reliability and affordability, the GTI offered a more refined driving experience and a premium feel, which attracted enthusiasts.
PRICING
The 1987 Volkswagen GTI had a starting price of around $11,000, making it a relatively affordable option in the hot hatch segment. It was priced slightly higher than some of its competitors, but the extra cost was justified by the GTI’s refined performance and features.
NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES
The Volkswagen GTI, including the 1987 model, has received numerous accolades over the years for its performance and driving dynamics. In particular, the GTI has been recognized as one of the pioneering hot hatchbacks, consistently earning praise for its balance, build quality, and overall driving experience. In 1987, the GTI was often praised in automotive magazines for its ability to blend practicality with fun, making it a staple in the performance car community.