1979 GTI v 1983 GTI

CHRISTOPHER SANTOS tells us which one of his two GTIs is the best.

As someone who has two very different versions of the Mk1 Golf GTI, I am frequently asked which car do I prefer?

The Campaign is obviously an evolution of the early GTI and consequently has become a more user-friendly and refined car. Interestingly, there are certain elements of the earlier version that are, to my mind, more superior.

For instance, the front seats in the 4-speed GTI are better than those of the Campaign, offering more comfortable support, although the larger steering wheel of the early version is inferior to that of the latter. The 1.6 EG engine is more driveable than its 1.8 DX sister and is also more fun to use as it revs easily and becomes almost turbine like in its smoothness. The superior torque of the 1.8 engine of the Campaign makes overtaking slower moving traffic easier. In terms of acceleration and maximum speed, realistically, there is very little between them, although the Campaign is far quicker when progressing through the gears.

1979 Golf GTI

1983 Golf GTI Campaign

The restrictions of the 4-speed gearbox become apparent on the motorway or any long journey, as the whole car becomes noisy at anything over the legal motorway limit. But it is also worth remembering, the 4-speed GTI can crack the magical 60mph in second gear whilst the Campaign requires an extra shift into third. The gearbox in the 4-speed version is far more decisive than its 5-speed sister, although the throttle response in the Campaign is marginally superior.

One could argue the merits of the different interiors until eternity. I believe the earlier GTI, with its round dial dashboard and proper centre console (with instruments) to be far more in keeping with the overall character of the car. Conversely, the Campaign's excellent MFA computer, steel sunroof and tinted windows easily equals the balance. The Campaign ultimately loses out because of its deck-chair like seat material, but it is worth noting that my 4-speed GTI has the luxury of soft black leather, so maybe I am biased!

Externally, the clean lines of the single headlamps and small rear tail lights of the early GTI are added attractions, although the Campaign has dual interior remote control door mirrors, and built in rear fog lamps.

So, which car do I prefer?

Just like in the 1970s, a good, well prepared, early Golf GTI is an enjoyable driver's car. Also, as an investment point of view, which is just as important to some people as driving enjoyment, future years are bound to see the early small rear light models increase dramatically in value and desirability. To counteract this, the Campaign was the limited edition run-out model of the Mk1 and consequently has, to some, become the most cherished.

In the end there is no obvious winner.

These are both great cars.