Authors

L. Frömmig, S. Willmann, L. Schüler, W.-C. Weimar, Volkswagen AG, Wolfsburg

Year

2026

Print Info

Production/Publication ÖVK

Summary

In 2026, the Volkswagen Golf GTI will celebrate its 50th anniversary. The first-generation Golf I GTI, powered by a 81 kW (110 PS), 1.6-l in-line gasoline engine and equipped with a lowered and sport-tuned chassis, was launched in 1976. The combination of a high-performance powertrain and sporty vehicle dynamics established the captivating vehicle class of sporty compact cars, which is still exemplified to this day by the GTI badge. On the occasion of this anniversary, Volkswagen is launching the special model "GTI EDITION 50," the most powerful and high-performance GTI of all time.

This paper addresses the performance-enhancing components of the "GTI EDITION 50," with a particular focus on the development of the optional Performance package. The aspects of the engine and powertrain, chassis and tires, as well as aerodynamics are explained in detail.

The paper is supplemented by a look back on the technical highlights of chassis and powertrain development from eight generations of the Golf GTI, which trace the development path to the performance of the "GTI EDITION 50" and demonstrate the significance of the "GTI" badge for the Volkswagen brand. It also includes an outlook on the continuation of the GTI tradition in the transition to battery electric vehicles.

ISBN

978-3-9504969-5-6

DOI

https://doi.org/10.62626/ospn-cwej Copy link

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