VW Golf 2 G60

Background: the Golf II as a technical platform

The Golf II (type 19E, then from 1989 type 1G1) was presented in August 1983 and took over the hatchback concept of the previous model.

It was longer, wider, better profiled (cd 0.34) and built in a much higher quality, especially in terms of corrosion protection and finish.

This solid foundation was essential for future high-performance models, including:

• GTI 8V

• GTI 16V

• Rallye Golf G60 (all-wheel drive)

• Golf G60 / GTI G60 (front-wheel drive)

• Golf Limited G60 (integral, handcrafted)

The appearance of GLader and G60 technology

The famous GLader compressor was the heart of the G60. Its name comes from the spiral shape of its internal canal, evoking the letter G.

Technical characteristics of the G60 engine

Based on the data of the Golf 2 GTI G60:

• Engine code: PG

• Displacement: 1781 cm³

• Power: 160 hp (118 kW) at 5600 rpm

• Torque: 225 Nm at 3600 rpm

• Injection: Bosch Digifant MP 4.0

• 0–100 km/h: 8.3 s

• Top speed: 216 km/h

• Curb weight: approx. 1032 kg

The GLader offered a very vigorous power build-up and was a unique technology in the compact segment – but required more maintenance than a turbocharger.

First G60 variants: Rallye Golf & Corrado as technological laboratories

  1. Golf Rallye

    The G60 was introduced in the Rallye Golf and the Corrado G60, serving as test platforms.

  2. Corrado G60

    The press hailed the astonishing potential of this technology.

  3. Syncro All-Wheel Drive

    G60 Golf Rally (1989–1990): Syncro all-wheel drive

  4. Widened Fenders with Angular Design

    The G60 was introduced in the Rallye Golf and the Corrado G60, which served as test platforms.

The Golf 2 G60 / GTI G60 (1990–1991)

The real Golf 2 G60, also known as the GTI G60, was launched in 1990 as the flagship model of the Golf range.

Design and special features:

• Based on the GTI but powered by the G60

• Late generation large bumpers (after 1989, type 1G)

• Typical GTI interior

• Fairly discreet exterior styling despite the high power

• All-wheel drive available only on the Limited trim

The 1989 restyling with its large bumpers strongly influenced the appearance of the G60 models.

The pinnacle: Golf II G60 Limited (1989)

The Golf II G60 Limited was the most extreme and rarest version:

• Handcrafted by VW Motorsport

• Only 71 copies

• G60 engine + 16-valve cylinder head

• 210 hp, all-wheel drive

• Today one of the most valuable and sought-after Golf models

The Limited is often described as "the most spectacular Golf ever built by VW".

Chronology of the G60 models

ModelYearsSpecial features
G60 Golf Rally1989–1990Full-face, widened body, homologation
Golf G60 / GTI G601990–1991Front-wheel drive, 160 hp
Golf G60 Limited1989210hp, all-round, Motorsport manufacturing

Conclusion: Why the Golf 2 G60 is legendary

The Golf 2 G60 symbolises a time when Volkswagen was technologically bold and industrialised a compressor technology that was unique on the market. The combination of GLader, Digifant electronics, a sporty chassis and the solid foundation of the Golf II resulted in a model that is still highly regarded by enthusiasts today.

Powerful, rare, demanding: a real milestone in the history of the Golf.