Oh how we love limited edition Golfs, and in 2003, Volkswagen launched the limited edition Golf GTI R to celebrate 25 years of GTI in South Africa. The GTI R was launched as the final incarnation of the Golf IV, just months before the Golf V was introduced into South Africa. While it ran the same updated 1.8T 20V motor as the ‘red I’ Golf GTI – outputting 132kw/235nm – the GTI R was fitted with a VW Racing sports type muffler that enhanced the GTI’s exhaust note. More importantly, for the first time, the GTI featured a 6-speed manual transmission. VW claimed that it could sprint from 0-100kph in 7.9sec and top out at RunX RSi-beating 228kph. Available in just three colours, black, silver and red, the GTI R wore the same sporty bodykit as the R32 (which wasn’t available locally), albeit with 2 extra doors. Apart from the aggressive front and rear bumpers, there was an integrated roof spoiler, as well as multispoke 17” wheels as standard equipment. The interior was awash with Volkswagen Racing "R" logos inscribed on everything from the carpets, to the gearknob, to the sport steering wheel, to the pedals. Just 150 of the GTI R were said to be made, and they carried a price tag of R251 640 in 2003, which was slightly up on the standard Golf GTI’s price of R230 370. #TunedAutomotive #SomeShitAboutCars
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