When the Golf GTI was launched in 1976, no one could have guessed that the 108bhp Volkswagen, with its red grille surround, black wheel arch extensions and golf ball gear knob, would soon become the world’s most successful compact sports car. Only 5,000 units were planned, but in the first year alone dealers sold 10 times as many vehicles. In total, 461,690 first-generation Golf GTI cars were built.

It was the unusual overall package that struck a chord: a highly precise sports car for lonely Alpine passes and, at the same time, a practical companion for every day of the year, extremely economical and instantly a timeless style icon. The price was also a hit: 13,850 Deutschmarks in Germany. The media spoke of the democratisation of the sports car. And indeed, the top speed of 113mph Volkswagen was impressive: with a sprint from 0 to 62mph in just 9.0 seconds, the 1976 Golf GTI left behind numerous sports cars and coupés that were far more expensive.

The unique interplay of agile engine, lightweight front-wheel drive, balanced chassis, perfectly fitting sports seats and crisp, no-frills design still characterises the Golf GTI today. It is this synthesis that Volkswagen has continuously refined over 50 years – making the Golf GTI an authentic sports car and the original in its class. The fact is: today, when people say GTI, they usually mean Volkswagen.

The crowning glory Volkswagen hopes will be the Golf GTI EDITION 50 – the most powerful production Golf GTI to date, with 325 PS. The anniversary model is already available to order in some European markets, with the first units to be delivered in 2026. Volkswagen has also proven that the GTI philosophy is successful in other model series, especially with the Polo GTI. In 2026, a new Polo GTI will take off: the ID. Polo GTI. With 226PS, it will transfer the GTI philosophy into the electric drive era for the first time.

The first five decades of GTI will be the focus of various major classic events in 2026. The celebrations kick off from 28 January to 1 February in Paris at Rétromobile. The classic car show at the Port de Versailles will celebrate its 50th birthday in 2026, just like the Golf GTI. Almost simultaneously, the first German show for classic vehicles begins in the Hanseatic city of Bremen: the Bremen Classic Motorshow. Here, the Golf GTI will be in the spotlight from 30 January to 2 February. Both shows are therefore not only the opening events for the European classic season 2026, but also for the GTI year 2026.

Way back in 1989, newly married and with a good, salaried job, I was lucky enough to own a brand-new Mk 2 Golf GTi, finished in white. A three-door model, better looking in my opinion, it was super quick and carried us on many weekends away, Hamburg being the furthest we ventured. I recall the thrill of the derestricted autobahn, the speedometer toping 120mph for mile after mile.

However, I also have memories of the non power-assisted steering, which meant parking manoeuvres required quite the workout. It was an extra at the time as were central door locking and electric windows. I could afford the car but ticked no boxes on the extensive options list. How times have changed. Fond memories though.