Volkswagen Golf: generations compared: what actually changed
From 1 generation, restyling Cabrio 1.1 MT 60 hp at 810 kg to 8 generation 1.4 eHybrid GTE 245 hp at 1624 kg is +185 hp and +814 kg. Power per litre on the 8 generation 1.4 eHybrid GTE is 245 / 1.395 ≈ 175.6 hp/l; on the 3 generation 1.4 MT 55 hp it is 55 / 1.390 ≈ 39.6 hp/l.
| Generation (name as in data) | Years | Body | Versions in this extract | Power band in extract | Fastest 0–100 measured | Lightest kerb measured | Mixed fuel band (where measured) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 generation | 2019-10-01 to 2024-01-31 | Hatchback 5-door | 12 of 16 listed | 110–245 hp | 6.7 s (three versions) | 1315 kg | 1.5–6.5 l/100 km |
| 7 generation, restyling | 2016-11-01 to 2020-01-01 | Hatchback 5-door | 12 of 44 listed | 85–204 hp | 7.6 s (1.4 DSG 204 hp Plug-in) | 1240 kg | 1.5–5.6 |
| 7 generation | 2012-08 (start) to 2017-03 (stop) | Estate 5-door | 12 of 79 listed | 85–125 hp | 9.5 s (both 1.4 MT/1.4 DSG 125 hp) | 1210 kg | 4.3–5.4 |
| 6 generation | 2008-10-01 to 2016-03 | Cabrio | 12 of 64 listed | 85–160 hp | 8.4 s (both 1.4 MT/1.4 DSG 160 hp) | 1215 kg | 4.4–6.4 |
| 5 generation | 2003-10 to 2009-05 | Hatchback 5-door | 12 of 60 listed | 75–170 hp | 7.7 s (1.4 DSG 170 hp) | 1189 kg | 5.0–8.6 (one row not measured) |
| 4 generation | 1997-08 to 2007-01 | Estate 5-door | 12 of 102 listed | 75–150 hp | 9.2 s (1.8 MT 150 hp) | 1115 kg | 6.2–8.1 (several not measured) |
| 3 generation | 1991-09-01 to 1999-04-30 | Cabrio | 12 of 64 listed | 55–115 hp | 10.8 s (1.9 MT 110 hp Diesel) | 1075 kg | 5.2–7.6 (several not measured) |
| 2 generation | 1983-08-01 to 1992-12-31 | Hatchback 3-door | 12 of 57 listed | 45–84 hp | 14.1 s (1.6 MT 69 hp; others not measured) | 880 kg (only that row has kerb) | 7.9 (only that row) |
| 1 generation, restyling | 1978-08-01 to 1987-04-30 | Cabrio | 12 of 18 listed | 60–112 hp | 10.5 s (1.8 MT 112 hp) | 810 kg | 8.9–11.5 (several not measured) |
From 1 generation, restyling Cabrio 1.1 MT 60 hp at 810 kg to 8 generation 1.4 eHybrid GTE 245 hp at 1624 kg is +185 hp and +814 kg. Power per litre on the 8 generation 1.4 eHybrid GTE is 245 / 1.395 ≈ 175.6 hp/l; on the 3 generation 1.4 MT 55 hp it is 55 / 1.390 ≈ 39.6 hp/l. Kerb mass per horsepower on that plug-in is 1624 / 245 ≈ 6.63 kg/hp; on the 3 generation 1.4 MT 55 hp it is 1190 / 55 ≈ 21.6 kg/hp.
Ground clearance: not measured on every 8 generation row. 7 generation, restyling lists 142 mm on the 1.4 and 1.5 petrol and Plug-in rows in this extract. 2 generation lists 125 mm on most rows and 160 mm on 1.6 MT 69 hp. 1 generation, restyling lists 125 mm on most rows and 160 mm on 1.8 MT 112 hp.
Tank: 50 l on 8 generation except one 2.0 DSG 150 hp Diesel at 45 l; 50 l on 7 generation, restyling; 55 l on 2 generation; 45 l on 1 generation, restyling Cabrio.
8 generation (2019–2024 Hatchback 5-door): specs and which row to pick
All 12 rows: Front, transverse; FWD except one AWD; Independent, spring front and rear; Ventilated disc / Disc; Euro 6 except Plug-in eco class not measured; fuel 95 or Diesel as labelled.
| Version (exact name) | Distinguisher | hp / kW | Nm | cc | Fuel | Cyl / layout | Boost | Gearbox | Drive | 0–100 | Top | City / hwy / mixed | Tank | CO₂ | Kerb / gross | Wheels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 MT | 130 hp | 130 / 96 @ 5000 | 200 @ 1400–4000 | 1498 | Gasoline | 4 Inline | Turbo | Manual 6 | FWD | 9.2 | 214 | 6.4 / 4 / 4.9 | 50 | 112 | 1315 / 1800 | 205/55 R16, 225/45 R17, 225/40 R18, 205/50 R17 |
| 1.5 MT | 150 hp | 150 / 110 @ 5000–6000 | 250 @ 1500–3500 | 1498 | Gasoline | 4 Inline | Turbo | Manual 6 | FWD | 8.5 | 224 | 6.1 / 4.4 / 5 | 50 | 115 | 1340 / 1840 | same four sizes |
| 2.0 MT | 115 hp | 115 / 85; rpm not measured | 300 @ 1600–2500 | 1968 | Diesel | 4 Inline | Turbo | Manual 6 | FWD | 10.2 | 202 | 4.1 / 3.2 / 3.5 | 50 | 93 | 1380 / 1880 | same four |
| 2.0 DSG | 150 hp, 1465 kg | 150 / 110; rpm not measured | 360 @ 1600–2750 | 1968 | Diesel | 4 Inline | Turbo | Robotic 7 | FWD | 8.8 | 223 | 4.4 / 3.4 / 3.7 | 50 | 99 | 1465 / 1960 | same four |
| 2.0 DSG | 190 hp AWD | 190 / 139; rpm not measured | 320 @ 1500–4100 | 1984 | Gasoline | 4 Inline | Turbo | Robotic 7 | AWD | 6.7 | 234 | 8.2 / 5.5 / 6.5 | 50 | 148 | 1514 / 1980 | 225/45 R17, 205/55 R16 |
| 1.5 DSG | 150 hp | 150 / 110 @ 5000–6000 | 255 @ 1500–3500 | 1498 | Gasoline | 4 Inline | Turbo | Robotic 7 | FWD | 8.3 | 216 | 6.5 / 4.5 / 5.2 | 50 | 111 | 1340 / 1880 | 225/45 R17, 205/55 R16 |
| 1.0 DSG | 110 hp | 110 / 110 @ 2000–3000 | 204 @ 5500 | 999 | Gasoline | 3 Inline | No | Robotic 7 | FWD | 10.2 | 202 | city not measured / hwy not measured / 5.2 | 50 | 111 | 1362 / 1810 | 225/45 R17, 205/55 R16 |
| 1.4 eHybrid GTE | 245 hp | 245 / 180 @ 5000–6000 | 400 @ 1500–3500 | 1395 | Plug-in | 4 Inline | Turbo | Robotic 6 | FWD | 6.7 | 225 | city not measured / hwy not measured / 1.5 | 50 | 34 | 1624 / 2040 | 225/45 R17, 225/40 R18 |
| 2.0 DSG | 190 hp FWD | 190 / 139; rpm not measured | 320 @ 1500–4100 | 1984 | Gasoline | 4 Inline | Turbo | Robotic 7 | FWD | 6.7 | 234 | 7.7 / 4.7 / 5.8 | 50 | 133 | 1437 / 1930 | 225/45 R17, 205/55 R16 |
| 2.0 DSG | 150 hp, 1520 kg | 150 / 110; rpm not measured | 360 @ 1600–2750 | 1968 | Diesel | 4 Inline | Turbo | Robotic 7 | FWD | 8.9 | 223 | 4.8 / 3.6 / 4 | 45 | 106 | 1520 / 2060 | four sizes as first 1.5 MT |
| 1.5 MT | 130 hp, 1361 kg | 130 / 96 @ 5000 | 200 @ 1400–4000 | 1498 | Gasoline | 4 Inline | Turbo | Manual 6 | FWD | 9.4 | 214 | 6.5 / 4.3 / 5.1 | 50 | 117 | 1361 / 1910 | four sizes |
| 1.5 MT | 150 hp, 1392 kg | 150 / 110 @ 5000–6000 | 250 @ 1500–3500 | 1498 | Gasoline | 4 Inline | Turbo | Manual 6 | FWD | 8.7 | 224 | 6.6 / 4.5 / 5.2 | 50 | 120 | 1392 / 1930 | four sizes |
Same badge, two cars. Four rows are named 1.5 MT. The 150 hp pair is +20 hp and +50 Nm versus the 130 hp pair, compression 10.5 versus 12.5, 0–100 0.7 s quicker on the light 150 (8.5 vs 9.2) and 0.7 s quicker on the heavy 150 (8.7 vs 9.4). The heavier 130 hp 1.5 MT (1361 kg) is +46 kg versus 1315 kg and +0.2 s to 100. The heavier 150 hp 1.5 MT (1392 kg) is +52 kg versus 1340 kg and +0.2 s. Mixed fuel on the light 130 is 4.9; on the heavy 150 it is 5.2 — +0.3 l/100 km.
Manual versus Robotic at 150 hp petrol. Light 1.5 MT 150 hp: 8.5 s, 224 km/h, mixed 5.0, 250 Nm. 1.5 DSG 150 hp: 8.3 s, 216 km/h, mixed 5.2, 255 Nm, same 1340 kg kerb. The Robotic 7 is 0.2 s quicker to 100 and 8 km/h slower on top; mixed is +0.2 l/100 km.
Diesel torque versus petrol power. 2.0 MT 115 hp has 300 Nm and mixed 3.5 — the lowest mixed figure among non-plug-in 8 generation rows — but 0–100 is 10.2 s, matching 1.0 DSG 110 hp. 2.0 DSG 150 hp at 1465 kg has 360 Nm and 8.8 s; the heavier 2.0 DSG 150 hp at 1520 kg is +55 kg, +0.1 s, mixed 4.0 versus 3.7, tank 45 versus 50, CO₂ 106 versus 99.
FWD versus AWD at 190 hp. Both 2.0 DSG 190 hp rows: 6.7 s and 234 km/h. AWD kerb 1514 kg versus FWD 1437 kg (+77 kg). Mixed 6.5 versus 5.8 (+0.7). City 8.2 versus 7.7. CO₂ 148 versus 133. Same 320 Nm, same 1984 cc Gasoline Turbo, Robotic 7. AWD is the only 8 generation all-wheel row in this extract; you pay 77 kg and 0.7 l/100 km mixed for that driven-axle change, not for a different 0–100.
Plug-in versus 190 hp petrol. 1.4 eHybrid GTE 245 hp matches the 6.7 s of both 190 hp 2.0 DSG rows, top speed 225 versus 234, mixed 1.5 versus 5.8/6.5, CO₂ 34 versus 133/148, kerb 1624 kg versus 1437/1514 (+187 kg versus FWD 190). Power per litre: 175.6 hp/l versus 95.8 hp/l on the 1984 cc petrol. Injection on the Plug-in: Direct injection (direct); boost Turbo; gearbox Robotic 6, not 7.
1.0 DSG 110 hp: 3 Inline, boost No, 110.1 hp/l, mixed 5.2 (city/hwy not measured), 10.2 s, 12.38 kg/hp — the worst kg/hp among 8 generation petrols except it is similar to 2.0 MT 115 hp at 12.0 kg/hp.
7 generation, restyling (2016–2020 Hatchback 5-door)
Twelve rows in this extract of 44 listed. Rear suspension on both 1.0 MT rows is Semi-independent, springorts hélicoïdaux, sem; other rows Independent, spring. Wheels on 1.0 and 1.5 rows: 195/65 R15, 205/55 R16, 225/45 R17, 225/40 R18, 225/35 R19. Wheels on 1.4 petrols: not measured. Clearance 142 mm where listed; not measured on the 1.0 and 1.6 Diesel rows.
| Version | Distinguisher | hp | Nm | cc | Fuel | Gearbox | 0–100 | Top | Mixed | Kerb | Clearance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 MT | 85 hp | 85 | 175 | 999 | Gasoline Turbo 3 Inline | Manual 5 | 11.9 | 180 | 4.8 | 1240 | not measured |
| 1.0 MT | 115 hp | 115 | 200 | 999 | Gasoline Turbo 3 Inline | Manual 6 | 9.8 | 198 | 5.0 | 1245 | not measured |
| 1.4 MT | 110 hp | 110 | 200 | 1395 | Gasoline Turbo 4 Inline | Manual 6 | 10.6 | 195 | 5.6 | 1317 | 142 |
| 1.4 DSG | 110 hp | 110 | 200 | 1395 | Gasoline Turbo 4 Inline | Robotic 7 | 10.6 | 195 | 5.3 | 1336 | 142 |
| 1.4 MT | 125 hp | 125 | 200 | 1395 | Gasoline Turbo 4 Inline | Manual 6 | 9.1 | 204 | 5.3 | 1246 | 142 |
| 1.4 MT | 150 hp | 150 | 250 | 1395 | Gasoline Turbo 4 Inline | Manual 6 | 8.2 | 216 | 5.3 | 1258 | 142 |
| 1.5 MT | 130 hp | 130 | 200 | 1498 | Gasoline Turbo 4 Inline | Manual 6 | 9.1 | 210 | 5.2 | 1315 | 142 |
| 1.5 DSG | 130 hp | 130 | 200 | 1498 | Gasoline Turbo 4 Inline | Robotic 7 | 9.1 | 210 | 5.0 | 1340 | 142 |
| 1.5 MT | 150 hp | 150 | 250 | 1498 | Gasoline Turbo 4 Inline | Manual 6 | 8.3 | 216 | 5.4 | 1320 | 142 |
| 1.4 DSG | 204 hp Plug-in | 204 | 350 | 1395 | Plug-in Turbo 4 Inline | Robotic 7 | 7.6 | 222 | 1.5 | 1615 | 142 |
| 1.6 MT | 115 hp | 115 | 250 | 1598 | Diesel Turbo 4 Inline | Manual 6 | 10.2 | 198 | 4.2 | 1355 | not measured |
| 1.6 DSG | 115 hp | 115 | 250 | 1598 | Diesel Turbo 4 Inline | Robotic 7 | 10.5 | 198 | 4.1 | 1375 | not measured |
Buy 1.0 MT 115 hp instead of 1.0 MT 85 hp if you want −2.1 s to 100 (9.8 vs 11.9) and +18 km/h top for +5 kg and +0.2 mixed. Specific output 115.1 vs 85.1 hp/l.
Buy 1.4 MT 150 hp instead of 1.4 MT 125 hp: +25 hp, +50 Nm, −0.9 s (8.2 vs 9.1), +12 km/h, mixed identical 5.3, +12 kg. Versus 1.5 MT 150 hp: the 1.4 is 0.1 s quicker, same 216 km/h, mixed 5.3 vs 5.4, −62 kg (1258 vs 1320). The 1.4 150 hp is 107.5 hp/l versus 100.1 on the 1.5.
1.5 MT vs 1.5 DSG at 130 hp: same 9.1 s and 210 km/h; Robotic mixed 5.0 versus Manual 5.2; DSG +25 kg.
Plug-in 1.4 DSG 204 hp vs 8 generation 1.4 eHybrid GTE 245 hp: later car is +41 hp, +50 Nm, −0.9 s (6.7 vs 7.6), top +3 km/h, mixed both 1.5, kerb +9 kg (1624 vs 1615). Same 1395 cc Plug-in Turbo 4 Inline FWD. Gearbox 7 speeds on the restyle, 6 on the 8 generation GTE.
Diesel 1.6 pair: Manual 10.2 s / mixed 4.2; Robotic 10.5 s / mixed 4.1; +20 kg. Versus 8 generation 2.0 MT 115 hp Diesel: later mixed 3.5 versus 4.2 (−0.7), same 10.2 s, +25 kg (1380 vs 1355), +50 Nm (300 vs 250).
7 generation Estate 5-door: this extract is 85–125 hp only
This generation’s catalogue count is 79; these 12 rows are the lower-power Estate set. All FWD, Gasoline, Turbo, 4 or 3 Inline as in the table, Independent, spring, Ventilated disc / Disc. Two 1.2 MT 85 hp rows differ by kerb and mixed: 1285 kg / 5.0 versus 1210 kg / 5.1 — +75 kg with mixed −0.1. 0–100 and top are identical (12.6 s, 180 km/h).
| Version | Distinguisher | hp | Nm | cc | Gearbox | 0–100 | Top | Mixed | Kerb |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 DSG | 115 hp | 115 | 200 | 999 | Robotic 7 | 10.1 | 204 | 4.5 | 1310 |
| 1.0 MT | 115 hp | 115 | 200 | 999 | Manual 6 | 10.1 | 204 | 4.3 | 1280 |
| 1.2 MT | 85 hp, 1285 kg | 85 | 160 | 1197 | Manual | 12.6 | 180 | 5.0 | 1285 |
| 1.2 MT | 85 hp, 1210 kg | 85 | 160 | 1197 | Manual | 12.6 | 180 | 5.1 | 1210 |
| 1.2 MT | 105 hp | 105 | 175 | 1197 | Manual | 10.7 | 193 | 5.0 | 1210 |
| 1.2 DSG | 105 hp | 105 | 175 | 1197 | Robotic | 10.7 | 193 | 5.0 | 1229 |
| 1.2 MT | 110 hp | 110 | 175 | 1197 | Manual | 10.4 | 196 | 5.1 | 1219 |
| 1.2 DSG | 110 hp | 110 | 175 | 1197 | Robotic | 10.4 | 196 | 5.1 | 1249 |
| 1.4 MT | 122 hp | 122 | 200 | 1390 | Manual | 9.7 | 204 | 5.3 | 1229 |
| 1.4 DSG | 122 hp | 122 | 200 | 1395 | Robotic | 9.7 | 204 | 5.1 | 1250 |
| 1.4 MT | 125 hp | 125 | 200 | 1395 | Manual | 9.5 | 205 | 5.4 | 1247 |
| 1.4 DSG | 125 hp | 125 | 200 | 1395 | Robotic | 9.5 | 205 | 5.2 | 1272 |
1.0 MT vs 1.0 DSG 115 hp: same 10.1 s and 204 km/h; Manual mixed 4.3 versus Robotic 4.5; Manual −30 kg. The 1.0 Estate 115 hp is +0.3 s versus hatch restyle 1.0 MT 115 hp (10.1 vs 9.8) but top +6 km/h (204 vs 198), mixed −0.7 (4.3 vs 5.0), kerb +35 kg (1280 vs 1245) — estate mass versus hatch, with a better mixed figure on this row.
1.2 85 → 105 → 110 hp: 12.6 / 10.7 / 10.4 s; 180 / 193 / 196 km/h. 105 and 110 share 175 Nm; the extra 5 hp is −0.3 s and +3 km/h. DSG at 105 and 110 does not change 0–100 versus MT; it adds 19 kg (105) or 30 kg (110) with mixed unchanged.
1.4 122 vs 125 hp: −0.2 s, +1 km/h. 122 hp MT uses 1390 cc; 122 hp DSG and both 125 hp use 1395 cc.
6 generation Cabrio: 160 hp 1.4 versus 85 hp 1.2
Cabrio mass sits above the 7 generation Estate 1.2s: 1.4 MT 122 hp Cabrio is 1456 kg versus Estate 1.4 MT 122 hp at 1229 kg (+227 kg), 0–100 10.5 vs 9.7, mixed 6.4 vs 5.3.
| Version | Distinguisher | hp | Nm | cc | Fuel | Gearbox | 0–100 | Top | Mixed | Kerb |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 MT | 105 hp, 1341 kg | 105 | 175 | 1197 | Gasoline Turbo | Manual | 11.7 | 188 | 5.9 | 1341 |
| 1.4 MT | 122 hp, 1456 kg | 122 | 200 | 1390 | Gasoline Turbo | Manual | 10.5 | 197 | 6.4 | 1456 |
| 1.4 DSG | 122 hp, 1379 kg | 122 | 200 | 1390 | Gasoline Turbo | Robotic | 10.5 | 197 | 6.3 | 1379 |
| 1.4 MT | 160 hp | 160 | 240 | 1390 | Gasoline Turbo | Manual | 8.4 | 216 | 6.4 | 1409 |
| 1.4 DSG | 160 hp | 160 | 240 | 1390 | Gasoline Turbo | Robotic | 8.4 | 216 | 6.3 | 1428 |
| 1.6 MT | 105 hp Diesel | 105 | 250 | 1598 | Diesel Turbo | Manual | 11.7 | 188 | 4.4 | 1426 |
| 2.0 MT | 140 hp Diesel | 140 | 320 | 1968 | Diesel Turbo | Manual | 9.9 | 207 | 4.5 | 1521 |
| 2.0 DSG | 140 hp Diesel | 140 | 320 | 1968 | Diesel Turbo | Robotic | 9.9 | 205 | 5.1 | 1445 |
| 1.2 MT | 85 hp | 85 | 160 | 1197 | Gasoline Turbo | Manual | 12.3 | 178 | 5.5 | 1229 |
| 1.2 DSG | 105 hp | 105 | 175 | 1197 | Gasoline Turbo | Robotic | 10.6 | 190 | 5.8 | 1264 |
| 1.2 MT | 105 hp, 1233 kg | 105 | 175 | 1197 | Gasoline Turbo | Manual | 10.6 | 190 | 5.7 | 1233 |
| 1.4 MT | 122 hp, 1215 kg | 122 | 200 | 1390 | Gasoline Turbo | Manual | 9.5 | 200 | 6.2 | 1215 |
Two 1.4 MT 122 hp: 1456 kg / 10.5 s / 197 km/h / 6.4 mixed versus 1215 kg / 9.5 s / 200 km/h / 6.2 mixed. −241 kg buys −1.0 s and +3 km/h. Two 1.2 MT 105 hp: 1341 kg / 11.7 s / 188 km/h versus 1233 kg / 10.6 s / 190 km/h — −108 kg, −1.1 s, +2 km/h, mixed 5.9 vs 5.7.
1.4 160 hp vs 122 hp (light 1215 kg row): +38 hp, +40 Nm, −1.1 s (8.4 vs 9.5), +16 km/h, mixed 6.4 vs 6.2, +194 kg. Specific output 115.1 hp/l on the 160.
Diesel: 1.6 MT 105 hp mixed 4.4 at 11.7 s; 2.0 MT 140 hp mixed 4.5 at 9.9 s. 2.0 DSG 140 hp is +0.6 mixed versus that MT (5.1 vs 4.5) and −2 km/h top, −76 kg.
5 generation Hatchback: 75 hp 1.4 versus 170 hp 1.4 and 170 hp Diesel
| Version | Distinguisher | hp | Nm | cc | Fuel | Drive | Gearbox | 0–100 | Top | Mixed | Kerb |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4 MT | 80 hp | 80 | 132 | 1390 | Gasoline | FWD | Manual | 13.9 | 168 | 6.9 | 1190 |
| 1.4 DSG | 170 hp | 170 | 240 | 1390 | Gasoline Turbo | FWD | Robotic | 7.7 | 218 | 7.3 | 1355 |
| 1.4 MT | 170 hp | 170 | 240 | 1390 | Gasoline Turbo | FWD | Manual | 7.9 | 220 | 7.3 | 1335 |
| 1.4 MT | 75 hp | 75 | 126 | 1390 | Gasoline | FWD | Manual | 14.7 | 164 | 6.8 | 1189 |
| 1.4 MT | 90 hp | 90 | 130 | 1390 | Gasoline | FWD | Manual | 12.9 | 174 | 6.2 | 1201 |
| 2.0 MT | 150 hp | 150 | 200 | 1984 | Gasoline | AWD | Manual | 9.2 | 207 | 8.6 | 1402 |
| 1.9 MT | 90 hp | 90 | 210 | 1896 | Diesel | FWD | Manual | 12.9 | 176 | 5.0 | 1285 |
| 1.9 MT | 105 hp | 105 | 250 | 1896 | Diesel | AWD | Manual | 12.1 | 185 | 6.0 | 1425 |
| 2.0 MT | 136 hp | 136 | 320 | 1968 | Diesel | FWD | Manual | 9.4 | 203 | not measured | 1318 |
| 2.0 MT | 140 hp | 140 | 320 | 1968 | Diesel | AWD | Manual | 9.5 | 203 | 5.9 | 1450 |
| 2.0 MT | 170 hp | 170 | 350 | 1968 | Diesel | FWD | Manual | 8.2 | 220 | 5.9 | 1330 |
| 2.0 DSG | 170 hp | 170 | 350 | 1968 | Diesel | FWD | Robotic | 8.2 | 218 | 6.4 | 1365 |
1.4 MT 75 vs 80 vs 90 vs 170 hp: 14.7 / 13.9 / 12.9 / 7.9 s. Mixed 6.8 / 6.9 / 6.2 / 7.3 — the 90 hp row is the most economical 1.4 petrol here. 1.4 DSG 170 hp is 0.2 s quicker than 1.4 MT 170 hp and 2 km/h slower on top; mixed identical 7.3; +20 kg. Specific output on 170 hp 1.4: 122.3 hp/l.
AWD tax in this generation: 2.0 MT 150 hp Gasoline AWD mixed 8.6 at 1402 kg. 1.9 MT 105 hp Diesel AWD is +140 kg versus 1.9 MT 90 hp FWD (1425 vs 1285), mixed +1.0 (6.0 vs 5.0), −0.8 s, +9 km/h. 2.0 MT 140 hp Diesel AWD versus 2.0 MT 136 hp Diesel FWD: +132 kg, 0–100 9.5 vs 9.4, same 203 km/h; FWD mixed not measured.
Diesel 170 vs petrol 170: 2.0 MT 170 hp Diesel 8.2 s, 220 km/h, mixed 5.9, 1330 kg versus 1.4 MT 170 hp petrol 7.9 s, 220 km/h, mixed 7.3, 1335 kg. Petrol is 0.3 s quicker; Diesel mixed is −1.4 l/100 km; kerb almost the same (−5 kg Diesel).
4 generation Estate: Automatic costs seconds
| Version | Distinguisher | hp | Nm | cc | Drive | Gearbox | 0–100 | Top | Mixed | Kerb |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4 MT | 75 hp | 75 | 126 | 1390 | FWD | Manual | 15.6 | 171 | 6.8 | 1215 |
| 1.6 AT | 101 hp | 101 | 148 | 1595 | FWD | Automatic | 13.9 | 185 | not measured | 1270 |
| 1.6 MT | 101 hp | 101 | 148 | 1595 | FWD | Manual | 11.9 | 188 | not measured | 1270 |
| 1.6 AT | 102 hp | 102 | 148 | 1595 | FWD | Automatic | 13.0 | 185 | 8.1 | 1232 |
| 1.6 MT | 105 hp | 105 | 148 | 1598 | FWD | Manual | 11.9 | 192 | 7.0 | 1255 |
| 1.6 MT | 110 hp | 110 | 155 | 1598 | FWD | Manual | 11.7 | 194 | 6.2 | 1240 |
| 1.8 AT | 150 hp | 150 | 210 | 1781 | FWD | Automatic | 10.1 | 212 | not measured | 1225 |
| 1.8 MT | 150 hp | 150 | 210 | 1781 | FWD | Manual | 9.2 | 216 | not measured | 1115 |
| 2.0 MT | 115 hp FWD | 115 | 172 | 1984 | FWD | Manual | 11.4 | 195 | 8.0 | 1275 |
| 2.0 AT | 115 hp FWD | 115 | 172 | 1984 | FWD | Automatic | 12.4 | 190 | not measured | 1275 |
| 2.0 MT | 115 hp AWD | 115 | 172 | 1984 | AWD | Manual | 11.4 | 195 | 8.0 | 1385 |
| 2.0 AT | 116 hp AWD | 116 | 172 | 1984 | AWD | Automatic | 12.0 | 192 | not measured | 1385 |
1.6 AT 101 hp vs 1.6 MT 101 hp: same 1270 kg; Automatic +2.0 s (13.9 vs 11.9) and −3 km/h. 1.8 AT 150 vs 1.8 MT 150: Automatic +0.9 s, −4 km/h, +110 kg (1225 vs 1115). 2.0 AT 115 vs 2.0 MT 115 FWD: +1.0 s, −5 km/h, same 1275 kg.
AWD 2.0 MT 115 vs FWD 2.0 MT 115: same 11.4 s, 195 km/h, mixed 8.0; AWD +110 kg (1385 vs 1275). 1.6 MT 110 hp is the economical petrol pick in this extract: mixed 6.2 versus 7.0 on 1.6 MT 105 hp, −0.2 s, +2 km/h, −15 kg.
Versus 8 generation 1.5 MT 150 hp (light): 8.5 s / 224 km/h / mixed 5.0 / 1340 kg versus 4 generation 1.8 MT 150 hp 9.2 s / 216 km/h / mixed not measured / 1115 kg. Same 150 hp; later car is 0.7 s quicker, +8 km/h, +225 kg.
3 generation Cabrio: 55 hp 1.4 versus 115 hp 2.0 and 110 hp Diesel
| Version | Distinguisher | hp | Nm | cc | Fuel | Gearbox | 0–100 | Top | Mixed | Kerb |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 MT | 101 hp | 101 | 140 | 1595 | Gasoline | Manual | 11.9 | 185 | not measured | 1115 |
| 1.8 MT | 75 hp | 75 | 140 | 1781 | Gasoline | Manual | 15.5 | 160 | 7.5 | 1230 |
| 1.8 AT | 90 hp | 90 | 145 | 1781 | Gasoline | Automatic | 13.4 | 167 | not measured | 1110 |
| 1.8 MT | 90 hp | 90 | 145 | 1781 | Gasoline | Manual | 12.1 | 178 | 7.5 | 1110 |
| 2.0 MT | 115 hp | 115 | 166 | 1984 | Gasoline | Manual | 11.9 | 193 | 7.6 | 1185 |
| 2.0 AT | 115 hp | 115 | 166 | 1984 | Gasoline | Automatic | 12.3 | 185 | not measured | 1185 |
| 1.9 MT | 90 hp | 90 | 202 | 1896 | Diesel | Manual | 13.3 | 172 | 5.2 | 1330 |
| 1.9 MT | 110 hp | 110 | 235 | 1896 | Diesel | Manual | 10.8 | 193 | 5.2 | 1145 |
| 1.6 AT | 101 hp | 101 | 140 | 1595 | Gasoline | Automatic | 13.8 | 182 | not measured | 1280 |
| 1.8 AT | 75 hp | 75 | 140 | 1781 | Gasoline | Automatic | 17.6 | 164 | not measured | 1150 |
| 1.4 MT | 55 hp | 55 | 116 | 1390 | Gasoline | Manual | 17.7 | 154 | not measured | 1190 |
| 1.4 MT | 60 hp | 60 | 116 | 1391 | Gasoline | Manual | 15.9 | 157 | 7.0 | 1075 |
1.8 AT 90 vs 1.8 MT 90: +1.3 s, −11 km/h, same 1110 kg. 1.8 AT 75 vs 1.8 MT 75: +2.1 s, +4 km/h, −80 kg (1150 vs 1230). 1.6 AT 101 vs 1.6 MT 101: +1.9 s, −3 km/h, +165 kg.
1.9 MT 110 hp Diesel is the fastest 0–100 in this generation extract (10.8 s), matching 2.0 MT 115 hp petrol on top speed (193) with mixed 5.2 versus 7.6 (−2.4), kerb 1145 vs 1185. 1.9 MT 90 hp Diesel shares mixed 5.2 but 13.3 s and 1330 kg.
1.4 MT 55 vs 60 hp: +5 hp, −1.8 s, +3 km/h, −115 kg. 60 hp mixed 7.0; 55 hp mixed not measured.
2 generation Hatchback 3-door: most performance not measured
Tank 55 l on all 12. Drive FWD. Boost No. Gasoline. Clearance 125 mm except 1.6 MT 69 hp at 160 mm. Brakes Disc / Drum. Rear Semi-independent, springorts hélicoïdaux, sem except 1.6 MT 70 hp rear not measured.
| Version | Distinguisher | hp | kW | Nm | cc | Gearbox | 0–100 | Top | Mixed | Kerb / gross | Clearance | Injection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 AT | 45 hp | 45 | 33 | not measured | 1000 | Automatic 3 | not measured | not measured | not measured | not measured / not measured | 125 | not measured |
| 1.0 AT | 50 hp | 50 | 37 | not measured | 1000 | Automatic 3 | not measured | not measured | not measured | not measured | 125 | not measured |
| 1.0 MT | 50 hp | 50 | 37 | not measured | 1000 | Manual 5 | not measured | not measured | not measured | not measured | 125 | not measured |
| 1.3 AT | 55 hp | 55 | 40 | 100 @ 2800 | 1289 | Automatic 3 | not measured | not measured | not measured | not measured | 125 | Carburetor |
| 1.3 AT | 58 hp | 58 | 43 | 93 @ 3000 | 1289 | Automatic 3 | not measured | not measured | not measured | not measured | 125 | Carburetor |
| 1.3 MT | 58 hp | 58 | 43 | 93 @ 3000 | 1289 | Manual 5 | not measured | not measured | not measured | not measured | 125 | Carburetor |
| 1.3 MT | 50 hp | 50 | 37 | not measured | 1300 | Manual 5 | not measured | not measured | not measured | not measured | 125 | not measured |
| 1.6 MT | 69 hp | 69 | 51 | 118 @ 2700 | 1595 | Manual 5 | 14.1 | 162 | 7.9 | 880 / 1400 | 160 | Carburetor; fuel 92 |
| 1.6 AT | 70 hp | 70 | 51 | not measured | 1600 | Automatic 3 | not measured | not measured | not measured | not measured | 125 | not measured |
| 1.6 MT | 70 hp | 70 | 51 | not measured | 1600 | Manual 5 | not measured | not measured | not measured | not measured | 125 | not measured |
| 1.8 AT | 84 hp | 84 | 62 | not measured | 1781 | Automatic 3 | not measured | not measured | not measured | not measured | 125 | Central injection (single-point or single- point); fuel 92 |
| 1.8 MT | 84 hp | 84 | 62 | not measured | 1781 | Manual 5 | not measured | not measured | not measured | not measured | 125 | same injection; fuel 92 |
The only fully measured performance row is 1.6 MT 69 hp: 14.1 s, 162 km/h, 7.9 mixed, 880 kg, 12.75 kg/hp, 43.3 hp/l. 1.8 MT 84 hp is the strongest in this extract on paper (+15 hp versus that 69 hp row) but 0–100, top, mixed, and kerb are not measured, so this catalogue cannot rank it on the road.
1 generation, restyling Cabrio: 60 hp 1.1 versus 112 hp 1.8
Tank 45 l. FWD. Boost No. Independent, spring / Semi-independent, springorts hélicoïdaux, sem. Disc / Drum. Clearance 125 mm except 1.8 MT 112 hp at 160 mm.
| Version | Distinguisher | hp | Nm | cc | Gearbox | 0–100 | Top | Mixed | Kerb / gross | Fuel / injection | Dates in row |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 MT | 72 hp | 72 | 120 | 1595 | Manual 5 | 14.0 | 155 | 8.9 | 960 / 1330 | 92; Distributed injection (multi-point); CR 9.3 | 1986-04-01–1987-04-30 |
| 1.6 MT | 75 hp | 75 | 120 | 1595 | Manual 5 | not measured | not measured | not measured | 850 / 1270 | 95; Carburetor; CR 9 | 1979-02-01–1983-07-31 |
| 1.6 AT | 75 hp | 75 | 120 | 1595 | Automatic 3 | not measured | not measured | not measured | 880 / 1270 | 95; Carburetor; CR 9 | 1979-02-01–1983-07-31 |
| 1.6 MT | 110 hp | 110 | 140 | 1595 | Manual 5 | 11.0 | 175 | 11.5 | 970 / 1270 | 95; Carburetor; CR 9.5 | 1979-02-01–1983-07-31 |
| 1.8 AT | 90 hp | 90 | 145 | 1781 | Automatic 3 | 13.5 | 159 | 8.9 | 975 / 1345 | 92; Central injection (single-point or single- point); CR 10 | 1979-02-01–1983-07-31 |
| 1.8 MT | 98 hp | 98 | 143 | 1781 | Manual 5 | 11.0 | 166 | 9.4 | 1015 / 1375 | 95; Central injection…; CR 9 | 1979-02-01–1983-07-31 |
| 1.8 AT | 98 hp | 98 | 143 | 1781 | Automatic 3 | 13.4 | 161 | 9.4 | 1015 / 1375 | same | 1979-02-01–1983-07-31 |
| 1.8 MT | 112 hp | 112 | 157 | 1781 | Manual 5 | 10.5 | 180 | 11.0 | 920 / 1300 | 95; Distributed injection (multi-point); CR 10 | 1979-02-01–1983-07-31 |
| 1.5 MT | 70 hp | 70 | 110 | 1471 | Manual 4 | 13.0 | 158 | 10.0 | 850 / 1280 | 92; Carburetor; CR 8.2 | 1979-02-01–1980-07-31 |
| 1.6 AT | 72 hp | 72 | 120 | 1595 | Automatic 3 | 16.2 | 145 | 8.9 | 960 / 1330 | 92; Distributed injection (multi-point); CR 9.3 | 1986-04-01–1987-04-30 |
| 1.8 MT | 90 hp | 90 | 145 | 1781 | Manual 5 | 11.1 | 164 | 8.9 | 970 / 1250 | 92; Central injection…; CR 10 | 1979-02-01–1983-07-31 |
| 1.1 MT | 60 hp | 60 | 93 | 1100 | Manual 4 | 17.0 | 145 | 9.5 | 810 / 1240 | 92; Carburetor; CR 8.2 | 1978-08-01–1980-07-31 |
1.8 AT 98 vs 1.8 MT 98: +2.4 s (13.4 vs 11.0), −5 km/h, same mixed 9.4, same 1015 kg. 1.6 AT 72 vs 1.6 MT 72: +2.2 s (16.2 vs 14.0), −10 km/h, mixed both 8.9, same 960 kg. 1.8 MT 112 hp is the fastest and highest-top in this generation extract; mixed 11.0 is worse than 1.8 MT 90 hp at 8.9. 1.6 MT 110 hp matches 1.8 MT 98 hp at 11.0 s but uses 11.5 mixed versus 9.4.
1.1 MT 60 hp is the lightest Golf in the whole 108-row set (810 kg) and the slowest measured 0–100 in 1 generation, restyling (17.0 s). Versus 8 generation light 1.5 MT 130 hp (1315 kg, 9.2 s): +505 kg, −7.8 s, mixed 4.9 versus 9.5.
Dimensions, weight, wheels (cross-generation)
Kerb in this extract runs 810 kg (1 generation, restyling 1.1 MT 60 hp) to 1624 kg (8 generation 1.4 eHybrid GTE 245 hp). Gross: 1240 kg on that 1.1 MT to 2060 kg on 8 generation 2.0 DSG 150 hp Diesel 1520 kg kerb. Ground clearance is not measured on 8 generation; 142 mm on measured 7 generation, restyling petrols; 125 or 160 mm on early cars as tabulated.
Wheel sizes appear on 8 generation (16–18 inch as listed) and on 7 generation, restyling (15–19 inch). 5–1 generation wheels in these 12-row extracts: not measured. Suspension pattern: Independent, spring all round on 8 generation and on most 7 restyling 1.4/1.5 rows; Semi-independent rear on 1.0 restyle, 3/2/1 generation Cabrios and 3-doors, and on 6 generation as labelled per row.
Which version to choose (arithmetic, not a price)
If you want the lowest mixed fuel among 8 generation non-plug-in rows: 2.0 MT 115 hp Diesel (3.5 l/100 km, CO₂ 93). Accept 10.2 s and 12.0 kg/hp.
If you want 8 generation petrol with a 6-speed Manual and a measured city figure: light 1.5 MT 150 hp (8.5 s, 5.0 mixed, 8.93 kg/hp) over light 1.5 MT 130 hp (9.2 s, 4.9 mixed). You give 0.1 l/100 km mixed to gain 0.7 s and +20 hp.
If you want Robotic petrol at 150 hp: 1.5 DSG 150 hp (8.3 s, 5.2 mixed) — 0.2 s quicker than the light 150 hp Manual, 8 km/h less top speed.
If you want 6.7 s in 8 generation: 1.4 eHybrid GTE 245 hp (mixed 1.5, 1624 kg), 2.0 DSG 190 hp FWD (mixed 5.8, 1437 kg), or 2.0 DSG 190 hp AWD (mixed 6.5, 1514 kg). Same 0–100; choose Plug-in for mixed 1.5 and CO₂ 34, FWD 190 for the lightest of the three, AWD 190 only for AWD.
If you want a hatch before 8 generation with a Plug-in: 7 generation, restyling 1.4 DSG 204 hp (7.6 s, mixed 1.5, 1615 kg, 142 mm). It is 0.9 s slower than the later GTE at essentially the same mixed figure.
If you want Estate: 7 generation 1.0 MT 115 hp (mixed 4.3, 10.1 s) or 1.4 MT 125 hp (9.5 s, mixed 5.4). 4 generation Estate 1.8 MT 150 hp is 9.2 s at 1115 kg with mixed not measured; 1.6 MT 110 hp is the measured mixed pick at 6.2.
If you want Cabrio pace: 6 generation 1.4 MT or 1.4 DSG 160 hp (8.4 s, 216 km/h). Prefer the lighter 1.4 MT 122 hp 1215 kg row (9.5 s) over the 1456 kg 1.4 MT 122 hp if both badges appear. 3 generation fastest measured is 1.9 MT 110 hp Diesel (10.8 s, mixed 5.2). 1 generation, restyling fastest is 1.8 MT 112 hp (10.5 s, mixed 11.0).
If you want AWD: 8 generation only 2.0 DSG 190 hp AWD; 5 generation 2.0 MT 150 hp Gasoline, 1.9 MT 105 hp Diesel, 2.0 MT 140 hp Diesel; 4 generation 2.0 MT 115 hp and 2.0 AT 116 hp. There is no AWD in the 7 restyling, 7 Estate, 6 Cabrio, 3, 2, or 1 generation extracts.
If you want the lightest measured Golf here: 1 generation, restyling 1.1 MT 60 hp, 810 kg. If you want the highest power: 8 generation 1.4 eHybrid GTE 245 hp. If you want the lowest kg/hp among measured kerbs: that GTE at 6.63 kg/hp, then 5 generation 1.4 MT 170 hp at 7.85 kg/hp, then 8 generation 2.0 DSG 190 hp FWD at 7.56 kg/hp.
Problems and reliability are not measured in this dataset; the comparison above is only power, mass, time, fuel, drive, and gearbox as recorded.