A group of first-generation Volkswagen Golf owners have celebrated their car’s 50th anniversary by driving a collection of them around one of Britain’s most famous Grand Prix circuits.
Members of the Mk1 Golf Owners Club took around 15 examples of the famous family hatchback to the Silverstone Festival, where they were able to cover a lap of the circuit between races.
Anna Bebbington, events manager for the Mk1 Golf Owners Club, described the attraction many motorists have shown to the car after half a century.
He explained: “I think it’s probably the form. It’s always been known as the people’s car, and it’s kept them going.
“There’s such a following and a friendly community too. Basically, we want to keep all these Mk1 Golfs for generations to come.”
The original Volkswagen Golf was launched in May 1974, replacing the long-running Beetle in many markets and the first time the German marque had produced a traditional family hatchback.
Although many examples were designed to be as economical as possible, the most notable Mk1 Golfs were the GTIs produced between 1976 and 1983. Probably the first popular hot hatchback, the original Golf GTI gained traction with its 0-60 km/h acceleration. 8.1 seconds, but still offers space for a family of five.
Most production was moved to South Africa in the 1980s, and the last first-generation Volkswagen Golf left the factory in 2009, representing an impressive 35-year history.
Like many classic car groups, the Mk1 Golf Owners Club is designed to help owners get support and more enjoyment from their prized vehicle.
Founded in 2008, the club offers owners the opportunity to meet other Golf drivers at classic car events, as well as a great resource of information on repairing older models.
Membership of the Mk1 Golf Owners Club costs £20 a year and gives them a discount on parts and a 15 per cent discount on classic vehicle insurance.
To help classic car lovers find a reliable example, Anna recommended drivers go to their website for a comprehensive inspection guide.
He advised, “Oh, there are definitely key areas, especially rust. There’s a lot of information and buyer’s guides on our forum that tell you what to look for. On a convertible, you have to look on the roof and know what breaks them.
“There’s a huge amount of knowledge coming from all of our members, and we’re continuing our forum, which has a lot of history. When I started 13 years ago, we had about 700 paid members. Now we’re close to 1,600, and their knowledge is helping other people fix their cars.”
Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer emphasized that the original Golf also played a particularly important role in bringing a modern and durable car to the masses.
He continued: “The Golf is more than just a car: it’s a cult! I’m an absolute Golf fan and have driven one myself for many years. For many people in Lower Saxony, the Golf is a piece of home and something they can identify with.
“Just as the VW Beetle was in the past, the Golf has been a symbol of mobility and freedom for decades. Since 1974, the Golf has made a significant contribution to the stability and growth of Volkswagen and the industry in the region.”
