A first-generation Volkswagen Golf is able to start up after sitting idle for 20 years

Many vehicles are being lost to oblivion as time goes by, because they fall into an abyss where they never quite become true, hardcore classics. This has happened to one of the most revolutionary cars in the world, the Volkswagen Golf. The first generation of this successful compact has been forgotten, unless we are talking about the GTi variant. However, a group of young Poles has managed to revive one after it sat idle for more than twenty years.

The Volkswagen Golf is the quintessential compact, a type of car that has enjoyed resounding success. In 1974 this small but great model left the German factory with the aim of making a before and after. Today, the seventh generation of the Golf already exists, and it will be renewed before long, giving way to the eighth installment of the German compact. However, today the spotlight falls on the Golf Mk1, specifically a unit from Poland.

The condition of this car is not perfect, since it shows quite a few defects in the bodywork. There is rust on the bumpers, doors and various other elements of this veteran Golf. The interior is in very similar condition but, surprisingly, many of the standard accessories are still present inside the German compact. Even so, the most important thing is the heart of this small Golf.

The little engine has quite a lot of rust inside and its appearance does not exactly invite anyone to try to bring it back to life. However, this group of Poles thought otherwise and wanted to give this first-generation Golf a second chance. Nowadays it is a highly sought-after vehicle whose value is rising steadily, and if this unit undergoes a complete restoration, it may one day sell for a considerable sum of money.

Several attempts were needed before the 1.1-litre, 50 CV heart came back to life and began to purr once more. It is surprising that, despite the general condition this car was in, it started with a bit of persistence. Some fuel and oil were needed to lubricate the innards of this engine, in the hope that it would not suffer any further damage.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qIboBpM_C8

Without a doubt, the work of carrying out this restoration deserves great credit, since there are several elements that need changing. However, the fact that the engine managed to start despite having sat lifeless for twenty years is a very good sign. We hope to see this small green Golf back on the streets of Poland.

Technical specifications of this car

HatchbackVolkswagen Golf28 versions · from 24,450 €