Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf II (3-door, facelift 1987) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TD (60 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1989 |
| End of production | 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 16.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 151 km/h (93.83 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16 kg/Hp, 62.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.7 kg/Nm, 114.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 60 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 37.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 110 Nm @ 2400 rpm (81.13 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 1V |
| Engine displacement | 1588 cm3 (96.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.4 mm (3.4 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 23:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 960 kg (2116.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1465 kg (3229.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 330 l (11.65 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1145 l (40.44 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 850 kg (1873.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 480 kg (1058.22 lbs.) |
| Length | 3985-4040 mm (156.89 – 159.06 in.) |
| Width | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Height | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2475 mm (97.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1427 mm (56.18 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1422 mm (55.98 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.5 m (34.45 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 155/65 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 5J x 13 |
The Volkswagen Golf II 1.6 TD, specifically the 3-door facelift model produced between 1989 and 1991, served as an economical and practical entry point into the Golf range. Positioned as a diesel-powered option within the second-generation Golf (Mk2) lineup, it appealed to buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and durability over outright performance. This variant utilized Volkswagen’s 1V diesel engine, a turbocharged 1.6-liter unit generating 60 horsepower. It found considerable popularity in European markets where diesel fuel was relatively inexpensive and fuel economy was a key consideration for car buyers.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The core of the Golf II 1.6 TD was the 1V engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine employed precombustion chamber injection, a common system in early diesel engines. Fuel was injected into a precombustion chamber, initiating partial ignition before complete combustion occurred in the main cylinder. This design contributed to smoother combustion and reduced engine noise compared to direct injection systems prevalent at the time. A turbocharger was added to significantly increase power output for a diesel engine of this displacement, achieving 60 horsepower. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. The five-speed manual transmission was selected for its efficiency and compatibility with the engine’s torque characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 TD wasn’t engineered for quick acceleration. Its 0-60 mph time of approximately 16.1 seconds underscores its emphasis on fuel economy rather than speed. However, the turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in mid-range torque, making it adequately capable for everyday driving and highway cruising. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to maintain the engine within its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful gasoline-powered Golf variants, like the GTI, the 1.6 TD offered considerably less horsepower but superior fuel efficiency. It also differed from later diesel options, such as the 1.9 TDI, which provided more power and a more refined driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 TD typically came equipped with a relatively basic set of features, consistent with its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included cloth upholstery, a simple instrument cluster, and manual windows and door locks. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded stereo systems, and central locking. Interior trim was generally functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The facelift models often featured slightly improved interior plastics and updated dashboard graphics compared to earlier Mk2 Golfs.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf II 1.6 TD utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an elastic beam rear suspension. This configuration delivered a comfortable ride and predictable handling characteristics. The front brakes were discs, providing sufficient stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common on lower-trim models. Steering was accomplished through a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive control. The relatively light weight of the 1.6 TD (around 960 kg or 2116 lbs) helped to compensate for the engine’s modest power output.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Golf II 1.6 TD was well-received in European markets as a sensible and economical choice. Critics commended its fuel efficiency and durability, but acknowledged its lack of significant performance. Compared to the gasoline-powered Golfs, the 1.6 TD offered substantially better fuel economy, making it a popular option for drivers covering high mileage. It also proved to be more reliable than some of the more complex gasoline engine options. In comparison to competitors like the Ford Escort Diesel and Opel/Vauxhall Astra Diesel, the Golf II 1.6 TD offered a good balance of fuel economy, practicality, and build quality.
Legacy
The 1.6 TD engine, while not celebrated for its high performance, proved to be remarkably durable and reliable. Numerous examples continue to operate today, a testament to its robust construction. In the used car market, the Golf II 1.6 TD is often sought after by enthusiasts seeking a simple, economical, and classic Volkswagen. While maintenance costs are generally low, sourcing parts for older diesel engines can occasionally present a challenge. The 1.6 TD represents a noteworthy chapter in the history of the Volkswagen Golf, demonstrating the brand’s dedication to fuel efficiency and practicality.
