Over the past 40 years, we’ve seen Volkswagen take their Golf from the quiet and humble Mk1 to the new and luxurious Mk8, but which generation is the best?
Volkswagen Golf Mk1
Let’s take a look at the Mk1. Quiet and delightful, the Mk1 is a strong contender when it comes to considering the best Golfs of all time. Both inside and out, the Mk1 is simple yet so stunning. It may be small, but it’s not all about size.
This late car appeals to many of us with its fixed driving position and easy to use interior. This is a Golf that was great for grab ‘n’ go as it was comfortable enough to drive and light on your tail too.
With a 1.8-litre single-cam motor, delivering 1112bhp, this was a new level for the family hatchback back then, especially given the lack of weight too. It was a mean machine and even blasted 0-60mph in just 8.8 seconds.
When you get down to the nitty-gritty, it had such a smooth engine. In fact, some would even go as far to say that there was so much character in this engine than in any turbocharged hatchback out there, not to mention the incredibly sweet and sophisticated gearchange.
There’s not much more than we can say, surely, to back up how amazing this Golf was back in the day. It’s a car of all time that just boasted a beautiful drive, but sadly, it has a lot to live up to compared to the Mk8, as we’re about to find out.
Volkswagen Golf Mk8
Sadly, those days are gone now for all the love everybody shows towards the Mk1, as hard as that is to say, it’s true now that the all-new 2019 Mk8 is here. If you haven’t seen it already, then brace yourself.
With a price tag of around £18,000, the MK8 hit the roads last year, and it was a shock to most of us. The question is though, how does this new generation compare to the old Mk1?
The new Golf has had styling updates, along with some stunning front and rear lights and LEDs, so it certainly looks the part. It’s an evolution and full of lots of great surprises to keep you on your toes and definitely the most bang up-to-date generation yet.
If you’re a lover of design then you’ll love the fact that it runs a glass cockpit and highly complex connected system, suitable for all your needs. The only significant change has been with the suspension and powertrains, which have both been improved.
The engines have been well and truly upgraded, making them cleaner and more economical. The 1.5-litre TSI, which is one of the biggest sellers, comes in at either 130 or 150bhp, making them a bit laggy and a little rough on the edges, but overall it’s quiet and works well on the road.
Overall, the Mk8 is more sophisticated and a great little runner if you’re looking for a good impact and progression. Focusing on handling and ride, it’s all about precision and that economic boost.
If you like the sound of the Mk8 and fancy treating yourself to one, but perhaps you need to get rid of your current car first, you can find out your car’s current value. Just head over to our valuation tool and we’ll provide you with an instant quote. after we’ve gathered your quotes you can compare them and choose the best one for you! That’s how we help you sell your car online.
