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1985 Volkswagen GTI Overview
Winning Car of the Year from "Motor Trend," the 1985 Volkswagen GTI was living the high life. It combined affordability with an exciting driving experience and a fire-breathing engine under its hood. The 1985 GTI 2-door sports hatchback increased its horsepower output from 90 to 120-hp with the same 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder, fuel injection engine. This added up to quick off the line acceleration and respectable street racing speeds. Responsive steering and cornering were hallmarks of Volkswagen, and it showed in the light handling of the GTI. Its lack of power steering meant you could literally feel the way it attacked the road.
With a name change from Rabbit to Golf, the 1985 GTI was sold as a separate line from the other Golf models in the United States only. Though it shared the same frame and hatchback setup, the GTI had firmer suspension and performance wheels. The interior offered few comforts beyond the leatherette seats and optional air conditioning and power windows and locks.
Speed is the 1985 Volkswagen GTI's main selling point and what distinguishes it from the standard Volkswagen Golf, but owners also say it's comfortable inside, with plenty of front seat legroom and body-hugging sport seats to lock you in when the GTI hits its stride. The GTI is also a popular tuner car, because it is pretty easily modified.
What's your take on the 1985 Volkswagen GTI?
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Looking for a Used GTI in your area?
CarGurus has 6,601 nationwide GTI listings starting at $1,995.
Why Should I Not Buy A MK2 GTI With A 1.8T Engine Swap?
Just out of curiousity... I haven't been in the euro scene that long and I am looking to get a Volkswagen GTI where the owner did a 1.8T engine swap. My friend says I should not even think to go there...
Whats The Wheel Bolt Pattern On An 85 Gti?
Where Can I Get Custom Interior For My 1985 GTi? Seat Covers Etc. I Prefera...
please help with interior etc.
Did The 1985 Gti 16 Valve Come With Round Lights?
i have a 8v which came stock with square lights. how can i get my hands on round light grill and lights to fit my 1985?
VW_owner VW_owner The USA model 1985 VW GTi had 100 hp, not 120. And they did not come with power locks or windows. Options were: air conditioning, radio & sunroof. And there was no leatherette seating but cloth and vinyl. Who wrote this summary ???
Guru188RT I owned an 85 gti for 13 years. It was the most fun car I have ever driven. No other car I have ever driven handles like that GTI did. The steering seemed to anticipate the drivers every move and had lightning quick response. Wish they still made something like the old ones.