The legendary Volkswagen Golf was first introduced to the world in 1974. The car was awarded the original name in honor of the warm ocean current - the Gulf Stream (German: Golfstrom). Golf is the most successful model of the German auto giant and one of the best-selling in the world. This car marked the beginning of a whole class of cars that was named after him. Modest plastic trim, angular design and average comfort paid off with front-wheel drive (extremely rare at the time), a wide range of gasoline and diesel powertrains, a choice of body styles (three- or five-door hatchback, Jetta sedan and convertible).
Golf was produced in two versions (basic and luxury), had a large set of options: a rear window washer, a wiper, a sliding sunroof, a lockable gas tank cap and alloy wheels.
The base power unit was a 1.1-liter engine with a capacity of 50 hp. With. With it, the car accelerated to 90 km / h in 13.2 seconds. Maximum speed up to 149 km/h. Average fuel consumption is 8.6 liters per 100 km. From the very beginning, buyers were offered cars not only with a manual transmission, but also with an “automatic”.
In the autumn of 1975, the VW Golf GTI was presented to the visitors of the Frankfurt Salon. A sporty version of the model that combines the cost of a subcompact car with the dynamics of a sports coupe. The GTI version was distinguished by black window frames, sports seats and a steering wheel, wheel frames extended with plastic lining and a number of other details. The main driving force was a 1.6-liter engine with a K-Jetronic fuel injection system. The motor had a power of 110 horsepower at 6100 rpm. This made it possible to develop a speed of 100 km / h in 9 seconds, and its maximum speed was 183 km / h.
Cars with the GTI nameplate began to be in special demand on the market, so already in 1976 the Golf Diesel GTI appeared, equipped with a 1.5 liter turbodiesel with a capacity of 50 hp.
In 1979, Volkswagen introduced the new Golf convertible with soft top. The body was made by the famous studio Karmann from Osnabrück. The release of Golf I convertibles stretched over the period from 1980 to 1993, until the appearance of the Golf III. This was due to the fact that during the period when the production of the Golf I had already been stopped and replaced by the Golf II, the convertible version of the Golf II did not appear.
The Golf I was discontinued in 1983. During the release of the first model in Germany, about 5,625,000 cars were produced, including about 450,000 in the GTI version. In the United States and Canada, it was produced under the brand name "Volkswagen Rabbit", and in Latin America - "Volkswagen Caribe".
The second generation Golf was released in August 1983. The car got bigger. The length has increased by 300 mm, the width by 55 mm, the interior has become more spacious and comfortable. A more perfect body shape reduced the air resistance coefficient from 0.42 for the previous model to 0.34. The main features of the car were retained by Volkswagen specialists, but at the same time supplemented and improved. A set of gasoline and diesel engines from 1.1 to 1.8 liters with a power of 50 to 90 hp was offered, manual and automatic gearboxes.
The Golf II generation proved to be generous with modifications. In 1984, the GTI model appeared with an 8-valve engine with 112 hp. Maximum speed up to 186 km / h and acceleration to 100 km / h in 9.7 s. In 1985, the legendary GTI 16V (139 hp) expands the range. Sales of the Golf GTI II surpassed those of the first generation GTI at 17,193 cars in 1989.
All-wheel drive Golf Syncro appeared in 1986.
But the most striking addition to the family was the appearance in 1989 of the all-wheel drive version of the Golf II Country. The body and units of the Golf Syncro are mounted on the frame here, thanks to which the car has an impressive ground clearance, while, like the Syncro, the Country has a viscous coupling in the rear axle drive, which automatically connects the rear wheels when the front wheels slip. This modification was assembled at the Steyr factory in the city of Graz (Austria). Due to the high price, the model did not find wide demand, only a little more than 7000 pieces were produced.
In the late 80s, VW experimented with mechanical supercharging. As a result of this, a “charged” Volkswagen Golf G60 appears, equipped with a 160-horsepower 1.8-liter engine.
Golf II was produced not only at factories in Germany, but also in France, the Netherlands, Great Britain, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Finland, Japan and the USA. Volkswagen continued to produce the Golf II until 1992. 6.3 million copies rolled off the assembly line.
The debut of the third generation Golf took place in August 1991 at the Geneva Motor Show. Body styles included three-door and five-door hatchbacks, the Golf Variant station wagon, and a convertible. The volume of the luggage compartment of the station wagon with the back of the rear seats reclined was 1425 liters.
Golf III received a unique design and a much more spacious interior. Among the additional equipment, one can single out the ABS system, electric seat heating, air conditioning, electric seat back angle adjustment, centralized lock control, electric adjustment of the position of the exterior mirrors, engine preheating system in cold weather and much more.
The engine range includes seven petrol engines (from a 60 hp 1.4 l. turbocharged 90 hp). All gasoline engines were equipped with converters. The most "modest" engine had a volume of 1.4 liters, and the most powerful - 2.8 liters (with such a car it developed a speed of 225 km / h, and gained a "hundred" from a standstill in 7.6 seconds). The most powerful versions received a four-speed automatic transmission with an electrohydraulic drive, equipped with two programs - for economical and sporty driving styles, as well as disc brakes on all wheels (front - ventilated). All cars were equipped with power steering and brakes.
In 1995, a unique VW Golf appears with a 2.8-liter VR6 engine under the hood. The VR6 concept was to take a conventional V6 and change the angle between the two cylinders by 15 degrees so that all the pistons fit under one cylinder head. The 2.8-liter VR6 produced 172 hp.
The developers paid special attention to safety - there were volumes easily crushed upon impact, a reinforced frame, and amplifiers built into the doors. Also on the Golf III there were airbags for the driver and front passenger, a 170 mm deformable steering column, a foam-covered instrument panel and steel rear seat backs. Plus, the creators of the Golf III gave their customers a 12-year warranty against rust through.
Golf III sold 4.8 mil. copies and its production ceased in 1997.
The "fourth" Golf, whose production began in 1997, has become a more comfortable and expensive car with a rich list of options.
Without cardinal changes, the designers managed to give the car a modern look. First of all, unusual lighting fixtures attract attention. Under a common glass dome are hidden two large dipped and main beam headlights, as well as two small circles of direction indicators and fog lights. The rear part of the car has noticeably changed, the characteristic element of which is now the curved rear roof pillar, turning into the wing. New sound-absorbing materials and new engine and exhaust system mounts were applied. The Golf IV is available in four equipment levels: Trendline, Comfortline, Highline and GTI.
While maintaining the overall proportions, the Golf IV has become larger. Its length has increased to 4149 mm (+131 mm), width - up to 1735 mm (+30 mm), and the base - up to 2511 mm (+39 mm).
The list of standard equipment is impressive: ABS, front airbags for the driver and passenger, two side airbags in the backs of the front seats, disc brakes on all wheels (front ventilated), power steering with variable ratio and steering effort, height-adjustable seat driver, air particulate filter in the ventilation system, rear head restraints, body-colored bumpers, grille and exterior mirrors.
Optionally, the customer can install a navigation system with an LCD display on the center console. There are things that were not previously installed on cars of this class at all. For example, a rain sensor monitors the intensity of the wipers.
The range of engines includes six petrol and three diesel engines ranging from 68 to 180 hp.
The fifth generation Golf was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2003. The car is built on the latest platform, which also formed the basis of the second generation Audi A3 and VW Touran. Along with it, the car received a multi-link rear suspension, and in addition - a new body, the rigidity of which increased by 80%.
Golf V has become longer by 57 mm (4204 mm), wider by 24 mm (1759 mm) and higher by 39 mm (1483 mm). The rear passengers will be the first to feel the increase in space: legroom has increased by 65 mm, and the ceiling has risen by 24 mm. Trunk volume has grown to 347l.
The silhouette of the model is defined by five main elements: a waist line that runs under the side windows and rises noticeably upwards, a clear graphics of the side windows that form a single whole, embossed sidewalls in the area of the rear doors and pillars, the characteristic shape of the rear pillar, curved at an angle, and a swift roofline . Completely redesigned front end with improved aerodynamics. Twin round headlights with transverse direction indicators, like the Phaeton, characteristically “sharpen” towards the center of the front. Relief curved surfaces of the wings rise above the headlights. As a continuation of the hood, together with the radiator grille, they form a V-shaped figure.
The interior of the car is strict in German, functional and very ergonomic: all functional levels are clearly separated, all buttons and switches are in their places. Every detail has been refined and improved compared to the previous model. For example, the center console with its instruments: here the controls for the audio/navigation system and ventilation/air conditioning are located higher, so they are more visible and easier to operate.
The design of the front seats has been completely redesigned to provide maximum comfort. The Golf V is the first vehicle in its segment to offer an optional seat with electrically adjustable 4-way lumbar support (integrated into the seat) or with an independent heater. In addition to the standard 60:40 split-fold rear seat, a front passenger seat with a forward-folding backrest is available as an option, increasing the load area and making it possible to transport long items.
For the Golf V, several engine and gearbox options are available. The diesel line is represented by two units: 2.0 l / 140 hp. and 1.9/105 hp The choice of gasoline engines is much larger: 1.6 l/102 hp, 1.4 l/75 hp, 1.6 l/115 hp. The car can also be equipped with 1.4TSI units (three versions - 122, 140 and 170 hp), 2.0 FSI (two versions - 150 and 200 hp).
Golf V will be offered in 3 versions of the basic equipment: Trendline, Comfortline and Sportline, differing in some trim details. Each of them already includes 6 airbags, ABS with brake assist and ESP.
In the summer of 2009, the presentation of the sixth generation of the car took place. The Golf VI is 4199 mm long, 5 mm shorter than the previous model. On the other hand, the car has become wider by 20 mm, at the same height. The whole look of the Golf VI speaks of its sporty character. The front part of the body attracts attention with a radiator grille and an elegant shape of the headlights. A pronounced line running from the headlights to the taillights visually elongates the body and makes the car look lower.
Inside, high-quality design elements delight the eye, including chrome appliqués, numerous decorative inserts in the front panel and door trim. Pleasing to the eye and white backlight received a new design devices. The Climatic air conditioning system is included as standard.
The new Golf is equipped with a host of safety systems: next-generation ESP, skid prevention, ABS with brake assist, MSR, trailer stability control and ASR traction control. The manufacturer took care of the safety of both the driver and all passengers and installed seven airbags, and one of them protects the driver's knees.
The power units of the car remained the same. The basis is a 1.6 liter engine that runs on gasoline and has a power of 102 horses. There is also a 1.39 liter turbo with 122 or 160 horsepower. And also manufacturers took care of diesel engines with a 2.0 liter turbo unit, which develops a power of 110 or 140 hp. Power units traditionally for Volkswagen are distinguished by low fuel consumption and develop excellent power. The new 7-speed DSG transmission provides comfortable shifting without interruption in power flow.
Of particular note is the sporty version of the Golf GTI. Its 2.0 TSI engine develops 155 kW (210 hp), accelerating the car from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds (top speed 240 km/h). With such indicators, fuel consumption remains acceptable - 7.3–7.4 l / 100 km. The choice is also automatic 6-speed DSG, or traditional mechanics.
The seventh generation Volkswagen Golf was officially presented at the Paris Motor Show in 2012. The new generation, as usual, has become more spacious, lighter and more economical. Contrary to expectations, the chief designer of the concern, Walter da Silva, known for his bold work, did not dare to radically change the design of the model. But minor improvements were enough for the Golf VII to acquire modern features, become more attractive and dynamic.
Having retained the main features of the style by which this brand is recognized, the seventh Golf nevertheless changed its geometric dimensions. The car has become 56 mm longer (4255 mm), 13 mm wider (1799 mm) and 28 mm lower (1452 mm) than its predecessor. The wheelbase was lengthened by 59 mm (up to 2637 mm), which made it possible to “stretch” the cabin by 14 mm and the space at the feet of the rear passengers by 15 mm. It has become more spacious in the shoulders: at this level, the interior has expanded by 30 mm. The driver's seat has been lowered by 2 cm, the gas and brake pedals have been moved apart by 16 mm and the steering angles have been increased. The extended trunk has added 30 liters in volume (up to 380 liters), and its loading height has decreased by 17 mm.
The continuity of generations in the VW Golf family is a non-negotiable concept, however, on the "seven" you will not find a single common body panel with a sixth generation car. This car is really brand new. It has a more dynamic silhouette due to a reduced body height and a slightly elongated roof. It has more sharp edges, and headlights with LED sections now peek out from under the shifted “eyebrows” of the hood edge. The lowered roof gave the car not only a dynamic look, but also improved aerodynamic characteristics. Despite the increased width of the body, the drag coefficient has become smaller.
Thanks to the use of the latest MQB modular platform, Volkswagen designers have managed to reduce the weight of the car by 100 kg. The body was lightened by 23 kg, the engines and new seats became lighter, 3 kg were won due to the modified wiring, another 26 kg of weight was dropped by the suspension. German engineers fought for every gram, realizing that reducing the weight of the car would reduce fuel consumption.
Volkswagen AG Chairman Martin Winterkorn challenged his employees to radically improve the model's fuel efficiency. As a result of the work carried out, the car consumes 23% less fuel, and the Volkswagen Golf 1.9 TDI BlueMotion has become the apotheosis of the struggle for fuel efficiency. This 110 hp turbocharged diesel engine and a torque of 250 N * m with a five-speed manual transmission consumes only 3.2 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. This result was achieved with the help of the start-stop system, the installation of tires with reduced rolling resistance, and the braking energy recovery system. The height of the BlueMotion suspension was reduced by 15 mm, and additional aerodynamic elements were installed on the bodywork to improve engine cooling and reduce drag. By the way, the drag coefficient of the VW Golf BlueMotion is only 0.27.
In addition to this power unit, the diesel range is represented by engines with a capacity of 90, 150 and 180 horsepower. The TSI gasoline family includes: 1.2-liter (105 hp), 1.4-liter (122 hp) and 1.4-liter (140 hp). A more powerful version of the model with the GTI prefix received a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline unit with a capacity of 220 horsepower. The choice of transmission is a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission.
As for the suspension, the seventh-generation McPherson Volkswagen Golf has two types of rear suspension in front: for modifications with engines weaker than 125 horsepower, a semi-independent beam is provided (it is more compact, lighter and cheaper), and for all other versions - multi-link.
The car has a lot of new electronic systems. The equipment will include adaptive cruise control with automatic braking, an all-round video surveillance system, a marking tracking system, as well as a traffic sign recognizer and a driver fatigue detector. The classic “handbrake” will give way to electronic, and the steering will receive five operating modes (Eco, Sport, Normal, Individual and Comfort). The list of options also includes an adaptive suspension. Whether an adaptive suspension will appear in Russia is not yet clear. But it is known that for our market the Golf will undergo another “adaptation”: the ground clearance will increase, and the settings of the elastic elements will also be revised.
Volkswagen Golf has long been a cult and leading model for the German concern. After all, since 1974, the Germans have sold over 25 million "Golfiki", and this means a lot. In addition - Golf is not just one of the most popular and massive car, it is also the ancestor of the class of the same name - the “golf class”. But the conversation is not about that, but about the fourth generation VW Golf hatchback ... Why about him? Yes, because he is really very good, that's all!
Volkswagen Golf 4 is a car with a classic, interesting and stylish design that has not become outdated even after more than 10 years since its inception. Truly a universal model, because even now the Golf IV looks its own on city streets, on a country road, and even on light off-road conditions (after all, there are versions of the Golf with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive). Depending on taste and preferences, Volkswagen Golf IV can be a three- or five-door hatchback, and for connoisseurs of practicality - a station wagon. But regardless of the body type, the fourth Golf is very good in all respects, and the one-piece galvanized body made it possible to make the assembly of the “German” close to ideal, since in this way the designers were able to minimize the joints between the parts.
The interior of the fourth generation Volkswagen Golf is now obsolete, although to this day there are no complaints about its ergonomics, practicality and functionality. The dashboard has a classic Volkswagen look, it is excellent to read at any time, and its information content will give odds to many more modern models. The steering wheel is comfortable and pleasant, but at the same time quite massive. The center console is without any frills, but everything you need fits on it: air conditioning and music, keys and buttons, and other controls. Finishing materials in the fourth Golf are not the best, but they are of high quality: they look pretty, they are pleasant to the touch.
Volkswagen Golf 4, as a true “German”, is perfect for both the driver and passengers. It is comfortable to sit in it, the front seats have a noticeably pronounced profile that holds well in the “saddle”. The rear sofa can easily accommodate three adults, while none of them will feel superfluous. Well, everything is going great in the fourth Golf, but the luggage compartment let us down: the volume of 330 liters is too modest against the background of the general impressions of a German car ... Although, if necessary, the usable volume can be increased to 1185 liters. But stop! There is also a wagon that can offer a more spacious “body”, with a volume of 460 to 1470 liters, depending on the position of the rear seat.
If the car is good, then it is such in everything. So, in terms of technical characteristics, the IV-generation Volkswagen Golf has a wide range of power units, about which we can say without a twinge of conscience: “Yes, you can roam here!” In total, eight engines were offered to choose from: five running on gasoline and three on heavy fuel. Their power varies from 68 to 130 horsepower. Four transmissions could be installed in tandem with them: a 5- or 6-speed manual, as well as a 4- or 5-speed “automatic”. Well, it is necessary to consider each of the power units.
The base gasoline engine is a 1.4-liter, 75-horsepower, complete with which only “mechanics” is available. Such a “fiery heart” is clearly rather weak, because with it it takes “eternal” 15.6 seconds to reach the first hundred, although 171 km / h of maximum speed look decent. The next in the hierarchy is a 1.6-liter engine, the return of which is 102 horsepower. With it, as with the previous one, “mechanics” can be installed, but an automatic machine with 4 steps is also possible. The 102-horsepower Golf 4 with a manual transmission has good dynamics: a hundred behind in 11.9 seconds, the limit is 188 km / h. A hatchback with an “automatic” in acceleration is slower by exactly 1 second, and in general - by 3 km / h. At the same time, you can’t exactly call such a Golf a leader in terms of economy: in the combined cycle, it eats 7 or 8 liters of fuel, depending on the transmission.
A 105-horsepower unit of the same volume as the previous one is next on the list. Although he has an increase of 3 strength, it does not solve anything here, except that the maximum speed is 4 km / h higher, while the rest of the indicators are similar.
A 1.6-liter engine with a return of 110 horsepower is another representative of the fourth-generation Volkswagen Golf power range. It is only paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The dynamic performance of the engine has been improved for the better, but not significantly - 0.2 seconds faster is a set of hundreds than the previous one, and the top speed is 194 km / h. For 100 km of track, such a unit needs only 6.5 liters of fuel when driving in a combined cycle.
The most powerful and voluminous in the gasoline camp is a 2.0-liter, whose power potential is 116 “horses”. With this “golf heart”, both 4-speed automatic and 5-speed manual transmissions are possible. The first exchanges 100 km / h in 12.4 seconds and is gaining maximum 190, the second - 1 second and 5 km / h faster.
That's all, gasoline engines are over, now it's the turn of three diesel units. The weakest both among diesel engines and among the entire power line is a 68-horsepower engine with a volume of 1.9 liters (by the way, everyone on this type of fuel has this volume). Yes, despite the decent volume, the dynamics characteristics of such a Golf are simply terrifying - in 18.7 seconds, which it needs to accelerate to a hundred, you can do a lot of useful things. Yes, and the maximum speed here causes tears - only 160 km / h. But the dynamics are offset by efficiency: in the combined cycle, the 68-horsepower, diesel Golf requires only 5.2 liters of combustible mixture. For this motor, only a 5-speed “mechanics” is available in a pair and nothing else.
Next in line is a diesel engine endowed with 100 horsepower. It comes with a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Its dynamics is not impressive, but it is worth noting that it is 5 seconds faster than a less weak one.
And finally, the last and most powerful power unit is a diesel engine with 130 horsepower. Transmission types are similar to the previous engine. Yes, with such a “fiery heart”, the VW Golf 4 looks like a dynamic and rather nimble car - 100 km / h is conquered in 10.5 or 11.4 seconds, depending on the gearbox, but the maximum speed here exceeds 200 km/h Phew, that's it, the engines are finished!
It is logical that it is impossible to say exactly how much the new fourth-generation Volkswagen Golf costs today, because its release was completed 9 years ago. But the fact is that this “fruit” is represented very widely in the secondary market. Golf 4 in good technical condition can be bought at a price of about 180-200 thousand rubles, but for a copy in perfect condition, you may have to pay about 400-500 thousand Russian rubles. So, for a solid, German car, even a 10-year-old should fork out!
Volkswagen Golf 4 can already be attributed to the category of "oldies" in the secondary car market, but you should not write it off. The mere fact that it has been produced longer than the fifth generation speaks of its popularity among buyers. Volkswagen Golf 4 is one of the best cars if you need an inexpensive, compact and cheap "workhorse" to repair and operate.
However, given the venerable age (the newest fourth “golf” is already more than nine years old), the maintenance of these cars requires increased attention from the owners. Especially if the machine is used every day. If you have a need to purchase spare parts for your "darling", then the best place where you can do this is the auto analysis of the Volkswagen Golf 4 at AutoStrong. It has been specializing in the supply of used spare parts from abroad for many years and is ready to provide customers with goods on the most favorable terms.
Advantages of buying spare parts for dismantling VW Golf 4
- This is the only place where you can get original parts at a very reasonable price. And don't let the mileage fool you. The quality of the originals is initially so high that in terms of endurance, reliability and service life they will be compared with any new analogue, and most likely even surpassed.
- At the Volkswagen Golf 4 dismantling, you will find any necessary spare parts. It does not matter what year your car is, what model and what type of engine. For any modification, there are all the necessary details of the "stuffing", interior and body.
Why you should contact AutoStrong
- Carrying out fault finding. You don't want non-working parts and we don't want to sell them to you. Therefore, we definitely check all spare parts for “professional suitability” and exclude all that do not pass this test.
- Convenient directory. With the help of search filters, you can easily find the necessary parts on the Volkswagen Golf 4 parsing and find out all their characteristics from the full description, as well as evaluate the visual condition of the parts from the photographs.
- Affordable cost. At our Golf 4 autodismantler you will buy parts at below market prices.
- Guarantee. All parts that need to be checked after installation are guaranteed for 14 days, and for engines - 30 days.
- Large delivery area. Here you can order spare parts from auto-dismantling Golf 4 with delivery to any region of Russia.
You can leave a request by phone, via Viber, Telegram, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Odnoklassniki or VKontakte. But if you want to get an instant answer, then use the "Online Consultant" window on the site to order.
The popularity of this generation of VW Golf in Europe and Ukraine was overwhelming. More than 4 million pieces have been produced. Produced in six countries on four continents. Of course, in most cases, Golfs imported from Europe roam our roads. Although we officially sold the model in this generation. At the same time, the official fourth stockings were adapted to our operating conditions with a reinforced suspension and engine protection. Looking for running gear parts, there are such springs and shock absorbers, which are called so - for cars with a “bad road package”.
Body and interior.
The body of the Golf is eternal, as the mechanics say. The metal is perfectly protected against corrosion, galvanized on both sides. Despite the years, you can find a car in very good condition. Outwardly, the classic forms of the body does not look outdated. Volkswagen has always been able to make cars that do not look outdated over the years in the way that cars from Asia do.
Problems could occur with door locks (this is a common failure for all cars built on a common A4 or PQ34 platform). Also, over time, some on-board equipment can also fail. The fan of the stove hums at first, and then just stops. The power windows on the doors refuse to raise the windows properly, and the power window buttons on the driver's door are often replaced due to wear or water ingress. Salon at the Golf, the fourth generation, is quite functional even today. The rear seats can be conveniently folded into a separate proportion. There is plenty of second-row passenger space, and you can get a person of any build behind the wheel. What can I say, the standard of landing and accommodation of passengers and cargo in its class, which all competitors were equal to at the beginning of the 2000s.
Popular gasoline engines
There were more than enough powertrain options. The base gasoline engine 1.4 16V (AHW, AXP, AKQ) is quite popular in Ukraine. The main problem of the motor is a weak and short-lived throttle.
Moreover, it cannot be repaired, only replaced. The most popular engine is eight valve 1.6 (AEH / AKL). A reliable and time-tested engine was then installed on the Skoda Octavia Tour for a long time. I was not surprised by the power characteristics, but showed good traction on the bottoms. The motor is simple and reliable structurally. Common problems are a radiator cooling fan and fluid leaks through the water pump gasket. The next demanded gasoline engine was a two-liter one with factory indexes APK / AQY AZH / AZJ. Good engine. Of the main problems, only the desire to constantly eat up oil. But this problem lends itself well to repair. For hot drivers, you can find versions with a turbo engine, 1.8 liter AGU, ARZ, AUM. This motor has already become legendary, thanks to its wide distribution for the entire VAG model range (Skoda Octavia Tour, Seat Leon, Audi A3) and good performance. Of the main weaknesses are the flying ignition coils and the crankcase ventilation system, where the problem valve is. Also, the phase regulator may require replacement after 120 - 150 thousand km. The turbine, with normal oil and regular replacement of the air filter, lives without problems. But if, nevertheless, it's time to replace it (and based on the age of the car, this is no longer rare), it is quite possible to buy a non-original good quality turbine for Golf 4. Among the gasoline engines there were also options 2.3 VR5 2.8 VR6 3.2 R32 (VR6), but this is already a rarity.
Gearboxes. That rare case when an automatic is more reliable than mechanics
The five-speed manual with the factory index DUU is the most problematic. If the first one turns on problematically, then this is the norm for this box. Manual transmission is not for sports driving. With an active drive, the differential rivets break and the box crankcase is destroyed.
Automatic is a rarity for Golf. Those who got a car with a four-speed automatic are very lucky. This box is reliable and there are no problems with it. Only the oil needs to be changed in it every 60 thousand km.
Suspension. Are there any weaknesses in the chassis?
The chassis of the Volkswagen Golf IV, by design, does not differ from its competitors. MacPherson struts in front, and a simple semi-independent beam in the back. But how does it all work. Driving this model is a pleasure. The car handles well and handles the road well. In general, if you use high-quality spare parts for repairs, then there will be no problems with the running system. There are no structural weaknesses in it. As for the resource, for original spare parts it is as follows: silent blocks of the front levers 60–80 thousand km; stabilizer struts 40-50 thousand km; support bearings of the front struts - up to 40 thousand km.
Everything is very easy to change, and there are no problems with maintenance. Just like the steering rack, which does not live longer than 150 thousand, it is restored without problems. Shock absorbers with a "bad roads" package are tougher, but more tenacious than European counterparts, and it is better to install them.
Brakes are reliable and durable
The braking system Golf 4 will not create problems. There is only one fly in the ointment - the brake light switch. But this problem is cheap and solved quickly. Brake discs and pads are inexpensive to replace, and there are a lot of replacement options. When buying a Golf 4 for yourself, be sure to check the operation of the hand brake and the condition of the brake hoses. The handbrake cable is stretched, and it's just time to replace the hoses.
Results. Should I buy a used Volkswagen Golf 4?
If you gravitate towards the German classics, then this option is for you. Here everything is thought out in German and sustained in the spirit of conservatism. Do not forget that many copies have already passed under 500 thousand km, and some have exchanged the second million, so many components and assemblies will definitely require replacement. But if you managed to find a live copy, where the previous owner was a conscientious and accurate motorist, then Golf 4 will not create problems for you for a long time.
| Volkswagen Bora" 1998–2004 |
| Volkswagen Golf Cabrio (IV)" 1998–2003 |
| Volkswagen Golf GTI (IV)" 2001–03 |
| Volkswagen Golf R32(IV)" 2002–04 |
| Volkswagen Golf Variant (IV)" 1999–2006 |
The Volkswagen Group has an interesting development strategy - just look at the history of VolkswagenGolf or Passat. The first generation is a revolution. The second is bug fixes. The third is grinding and polishing. Fourth, fifth, sixth generation - restyling of predecessors.
Volkswagen Golf IV 1997 - 2003 just like that, it is rather a modernization of the previous generation than the debut of a fundamentally new one.
Brief introductory
The number of modifications of the VW Golf IV is able to put a potential buyer into a stupor - the choice is great. Three- and five-door hatchbacks (“hot” and not so hot), Variant station wagon, Jetta and Bora sedans, convertible ... Choose - I don’t want to.
Already in the initial configuration, the Golf is well equipped: at least two airbags, ABS (from the end of 1999 - and ESP, inflatable curtains - from the middle of 2002), central locking, power accessories, height-adjustable steering column.
Body and electrical equipment
The anti-corrosion resistance of the body of the VW Golf IV is very high: this is evidenced by the 12-year factory warranty against through corrosion (and 3 years for the paintwork), and the fact that even cars that have traveled more than one winter on our roads bear traces of rust in only one case - if the car was in an accident and was poorly repaired. Cars of the first years of production have complaints about assembly: water often gets into the cabin, the problem is solved by adjusting the position of the door or replacing the seals. The reliability of electrical equipment is also not the Golf's strongest point: failures of the immobilizer, fuel level sensor, power windows and other electronic machinery are not uncommon.
Engines and transmissions
The range of Volkswagen Golf IV engines is one of the largest in its class. There are twelve petrol and seven diesel engines to choose from. Diesel modifications are in steady demand in our market, and among the gasoline versions, the vast majority of offers fall on 1.4 16V (75 hp) and 1.6-liter modifications (101, 105, 110 hp). Eight-valve engines are considered the most unpretentious and reliable: according to experts, these engines, with timely maintenance without repair, overcome the bar of 300-400 thousand kilometers. However, these power units have their drawbacks - for example, the instances of the first years of production had difficulty starting the car in the winter.
For twenty-valve 1.8-liter engines, the list of shortcomings is longer: they are sensitive to the quality of fuel and oil, despite compliance with the maintenance regulations, there have been cases of premature timing belt breakage, the chain tensioner connecting the camshafts rarely nurses more than 200 thousand km. Turbocharged versions of the 1.8-liter engine are considered more reliable, however, it is difficult to find an instance with a “live” turbine in our market, and the cost of repair or replacement can completely kill the love for cars with the magic Turbo nameplate.
Powerful versions of the Golf with five-cylinder (2.3 l) and six-cylinder (2.8 and 3.2 l) engines stand apart. They have a timing chain drive, the resource of which is approximately 200 thousand km, so they only require oil and filter changes. There are no complaints about the reliability of these engines, but the repair of these units is expensive.
In order for the Golf to serve faithfully for many years, it is necessary to follow a few elementary rules: engine oil and filter must be changed every 15 thousand, air filter and spark plugs - after 60 thousand, and the timing belt (together with the tensioner and bypass roller) - every 90 thousand kilometers.
All diesel engines Golf IV - 1.9 liters, with direct fuel injection. This generation of VW diesel engines is rightfully considered one of the best in the world, but it also has its own subtleties of maintenance and operation. Until 2000, the Bosch EDC fuel pump was responsible for supplying fuel to these units, then new diesel engines with pump injectors appeared. In terms of reliability and durability, diesel versions with pump nozzles are preferable, but the cost of repairing these engines can be called astronomical: one nozzle costs at least 650 USD. (and there are 4 in total). Among the malfunctions inherent in diesel engines, one can note the failure of Bosch air flow sensors (mainly due to an untimely change of the air filter).
Mechanical 5- and 6-speed manual gearboxes were installed on the Golf IV family, of course, almost all modifications could be aggregated with “automatic machines”. Manual transmissions are considered less reliable than automatic transmissions: there have been cases of “mechanics” failing after 200 thousand kilometers.
But there are no complaints about the “automatic machines”. They are considered maintenance-free, but experts advise changing the oil in the "machine" after 60 thousand kilometers or every three years.
Suspension and braking system
Golf IV suspension (McPherson front, semi-independent H-beam rear) is one of the main advantages of the model. Differs in high reliability and maintainability. The resource of suspension parts is average: struts and bushings of the anti-roll bar require replacement every 40-50 thousand km, shock absorbers, ball bearings, steering rods, wheel bearings nurse 80-100 thousand km. And by 100-120 thousand km, the steering rack may begin to tap and leak. Cases of failure of the hydraulic booster pump have been noted.
The main problems of the brake system are that ABS sensors fail over time, sealing washers on brake hoses turn sour. Front brake pads wear out by 20-40 thousand km, rear brake pads by 70-80 thousand km. Brake fluid must be changed every 40 thousand kilometers or every two years.
Summing up
Many are mistaken in believing that the VW Golf is a role model in its class.
Volkswagen Golf IV 1997 - 2003 clearly does not reach the status of the standard, its shortcomings and the TUV reliability rating testify to this. However, the popularity of the fourth generation is beyond doubt, which means that buyers are willing to pay for a big name, reputation, and those advantages that the Golf IV lacks.
Advantages
Large selection of modifications and engines
+ Many offers on the used car market
+ High corrosion resistance
+ Reliable suspension
+ Trouble-free "automatic"
+ Rich equipment already in the initial configuration
disadvantages
Unreliable electrical equipment
- Problems with turbocharged engines
Model history
08.1997:
Premiere of VW Golf IV.
07.1998:
An all-wheel drive version of the Golf 4Motion hatchbacks with a Haldex clutch has been launched.
09.1998:
Bora sedan (Jetta for US market) introduced. The car was discontinued at the end of 2004.
04.1999:
Debut of VW Golf IV Variant and Bora Variant.
10.2002:
Start of production of the most powerful modification of the Golf - 241-horsepower version of the R32.
10.2003:
The VW Golf IV has given up its place on the VW Golf V assembly line.
06.2006:
Discontinuation of the VW Golf IV Variant station wagon.
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Brief specificationsVolkswagenGolfIV1
J1/1J5 |
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body type |
3- and 5-door hatchback |
station wagon (Variant) |
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Dimensions, L/W/H, mm |
4149x1745x1444 |
4397x1735x1485 |
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Wheelbase / track front - rear / clearance, mm |
2511/1513 - 1494/130 |
2515/1513 - 1494/130 |
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Trunk volume, l |
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type of drive |
front or full |
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Suspension front/rear |
independent / semi-independent |
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175/65 R14, 185/60 R14, 195/65 R15, 205/55 R16 |
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EnginesVolkswagen Golf IV 1J1/1J5 |
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Modification |
engine's type |
Marking |
Volume, cm.cu. |
Power, hp |
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s* |
Fuel consumption (highway/city), l/100 km* |
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1. 6 |
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1. 6 |
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1. 6 FSI |
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1 .8 20V |
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1 .8 20V T |
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1 .8 20V T |
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2.3 VR5 |
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2.3 VR5 |
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2.8 VR6 |
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3.2 VR6 |
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*Manufacturer's data is given for the version of the 5-door hatchback with manual transmission (with the exception of modification 3.2 VR6 - it was produced only as a three-door hatchback) |
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Cost per hour* forVolkswagen Golf IV 1.6 (102 hp), 1999 |
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the name of detail |
Price, c.u. |
the name of detail |
Price, c.u. |
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Oil filter |
Front suspension strut support |
4-13 |
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Air filter |
6-15 |
Front shock absorber |
40-72 |
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Fuel filter |
Rear shock absorber |
34-70 |
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cabin filter |
Tie rod end |
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Timing belt + rollers (set) |
31-59 |
Tie Rod |
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Clutch kit |
Front light |
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Brake pads front |
Back lamp |
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Brake pads rear |
Front wing |
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Front brake disc |
25-55 |
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Front stabilizer bar |
7-15 |
Front bumper |
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Ball joint front |
15-30 |
Rear bumper |
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* The cost is given on average for Minsk, as of 06/01/2010 / ** original spare parts (Volkswagen) |
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PriceVolkswagenGolfIV(1997 - 2003)in the Belarusian car market* |
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199 7 G.in. |
199 8 G.in. |
199 9 G.in. |
200 0 G.in. |
200 1 G.in. |
200 2 G.in. |
200 3 G.in. |
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many offers |
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not many suggestions |
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few offers |
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* The cost is given in USD. (minimum/maximum), as of 06/01/2010 |
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Age, years |
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Average mileage, km |
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Unpretentious, % |
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Minor defects, % |
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Significant defects, % |
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Critical breakdowns, % |
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Condition assessmentVolkswagen Golf IV (1997 - 2003)according toTÜV-2009 |
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Age, years |
Body, chassis, suspension |
electrical equipment |
Brake system |
Ecology |
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Corrosion |
Suspension condition |
Steering play |
Lighting |
Efficiency |
State |
Exhaust system |
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Great |
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Good |
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satisfactorily |
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bad |
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very bad |
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