To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the iconic Golf and the exciting return of the Golf GTI with the facelifted Mk 8.5 to Brazil, Volkswagen is showcasing a fascinating collection of Golf classics. Among these gems is the Volkswagen Golf Mk4.5, a model that represents a unique chapter in the Golf’s global story, particularly for enthusiasts familiar with the nuances of the Mk4 generation. While currently on display for invited guests at the Via Anchieta plant, this collection, including the intriguing Golf Mk4.5, will be accessible to organized groups for visits starting next year, much to the delight of Volkswagen aficionados.
Exploring the Volkswagen Golf Mk4.5: A Brazilian Special
For European and North American Golf enthusiasts, the term “Mk4.5” might sound unfamiliar. This designation refers to a significant facelift of the fourth-generation Golf, specifically developed and released in Brazil in 2007. This refresh was Volkswagen Brazil’s strategy to extend the lifecycle of the Golf Mk4, which was sold in Germany from 1997 to 2003, and keep it relevant in the Brazilian market until 2013. This Brazilian Mk4.5, sometimes referred to as the “City Golf” in Canada, presents a distinct blend of design cues, bridging the gap between the Mk4 and subsequent generations.
Many argue that the original Golf Mk4 holds a special place as one of the most aesthetically pleasing generations. Interestingly, there are even whispers suggesting that Volkswagen’s designers have drawn inspiration from the Mk4’s design language for the upcoming Golf 9, potentially dubbed the ID.Golf in its electric iteration. The Brazilian Mk4.5 facelift, launched in 2007, involved a comprehensive redesign, particularly at the front, which adopted styling elements from the contemporary Polo, while the rear was inspired by the emerging design of the Golf Mk5.
This unique hybrid design wasn’t confined to Brazil alone. The Golf Mk4.5 was exported across Latin America and even made its way to Canada. In the Canadian market, it was marketed as the “City Golf,” offered alongside the Mk5 generation, known there as the “Rabbit,” providing consumers with a broader range of choices within the Golf family.
The Golf Mk4.5 showcased in Volkswagen’s collection is a GTI model from 2008, a year before GTI Mk4.5 production ceased in 2009. This particular vehicle underwent a meticulous six-month restoration process, finished in a sleek Magic Black. The restoration was comprehensive, encompassing the engine and gearbox which were dismantled and cleaned, along with oil and filter changes. Suspension components were replaced, bodywork sections were repainted, and the seats and interior plastics were refreshed, bringing this Mk4.5 GTI back to its former glory.
Under the hood, the GTI Mk4.5 is powered by the robust 193 PS EA113 1.8-litre turbocharged engine, a powerplant well-regarded for its performance and tuning potential. It achieves 0 to 62 mph in a respectable 7.5 seconds and was available with either a five-speed manual or a five-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. Even by today’s standards, the standard equipment list was impressive for its time, featuring an on-board computer, rear parking sensors, “Cool Blue” headlights, rearview mirrors with integrated indicators, and even satellite positioning capabilities. The example on display is particularly special as it was originally part of Volkswagen’s product development fleet and has remarkably low mileage, with just over 20,000 kilometers (approximately 12,427 miles) on the odometer.
Golf IV Competition GTI (1999): A Track-Inspired Surprise
Another standout model within the Volkswagen collection is the Golf IV Competition GTI from 1999. This model originated as an “unscheduled project” by the product development team, conceived with inspiration drawn from European racing circuits. Its silver paint, accented with broad blue stripes and the number 17, pays homage to Station 17 at the plant, the workspace of the team responsible for its creation.
The Competition GTI is equipped with 16-inch wheels sourced from Volkswagen Motorsport, fitted with racing slick tires. Safety is paramount with a factory-installed FIA-standard roll cage fabricated within Volkswagen’s Prototype Engineering department. Inside, a bucket seat, competition harness, and a fire extinguishing system underscore its track-focused nature. The development and assembly spanned around six months, with significant chassis modifications including a lowered suspension and front camber adjustment to -4°15′, a stark contrast to the standard -0°33′, enhancing its handling for performance driving. Interestingly, the engine and gearbox remained unchanged from the standard GTI, suggesting the focus was primarily on chassis and safety enhancements for this unique project.
Golf IV GTI VR6 (2002): The Exclusive Limited Edition
Rounding out the special Mk4 Golf models is the Golf IV GTI VR6 from 2002. This limited edition, with only 99 numbered units produced in São José dos Pinhais, Brazil, prioritized substance over purely cosmetic enhancements. Instead of stripes and decals, the defining feature was the inclusion of a potent VR6 2.8 engine. While in Germany, a 2.8 V6 (despite being a VR6 configuration) with 204 PS was available from 1999 to 2003, this Brazilian GTI VR6 offered a unique take on performance. Exclusively available as a two-door, its appearance was understated yet refined, featuring a spoiler, side skirts, and headlight masks. It rode on wider 225/45 R17 tires and had a suspension lowered by two centimeters compared to the standard GTI, improving its stance and handling.
Inside, red stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and carpets added a touch of sportiness, along with a unique numbered plaque for each of the 99 models and a distinctive golf ball-shaped gear lever. Despite having 200 PS (slightly more than the GTI 1.8 turbo’s 180 PS) and a six-speed manual gearbox borrowed from the Audi S3, the GTI VR6’s performance figures were surprisingly close to the 1.8 turbo. The VR6 achieved 0-62 mph in 7.7 seconds, just marginally quicker than the 1.8 turbo’s 7.8 seconds, and top speeds were also nearly identical at 134 mph. Despite the similar performance, the driving experience differed, with some noting the VR6 felt slightly more top-heavy, potentially impacting brake disc performance, as both models shared the same brake setup. However, the allure of the six-cylinder engine, the limited production run, and the exclusivity commanded a premium. The Golf GTI VR6 was significantly more expensive than a standard GTI, yet it captivated affluent buyers, with 67 of the 99 units being ordered directly from Volkswagen’s stand at a Brazilian motor show in 2002. The example in the VW garage, numbered 000/099, served initially as a press demonstration car, adding to its historical significance.
These unique Volkswagen Golf Mk4 variants, especially the Brazilian Mk4.5, alongside the Competition and VR6 editions, offer a fascinating glimpse into the global history and diverse iterations of the beloved Golf. Their inclusion in Volkswagen’s classic car collection is a fitting tribute to the Golf’s enduring legacy as it celebrates its 50th year.
