The Mk1 GTI (1976–1983 in Europe; the Rabbit GTI in the US from 1983) is the original hot hatch — light, simple, and the car that started the genre. I've a soft spot for it.
Engines: the 1.6 then 1.8 8-valve (EA827) — around 110 hp in a car well under a tonne, so it feels quick despite modest numbers.
What defines it: low weight, mechanical CIS fuel injection (Cis K Jetronic), solid-lifter valve adjustment ([[8v
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