Iconic Golf GTI Turns 35 at Worthersee Tour 2011

We’ve already shown you the stunning A1 clubsport quattro today, and a bit of nostalgia for the 2007 Volkswagen Golf GTI W12 650 Concept began to set itself into our hearts, so we deliberately didn’t mention that it was coming to the Worthersee Tour 2011. It seems that Volkswagen has not forgotten that the GTI is turning 35 this year, so fans of the famous compact performance badge will have something to look forward to.

Fans of sporty Volkswagens are assembling for the biggest Golf GTI Meet in the world (June 1 to 4). Yet, this time everything is different, because the festival of superlatives is taking place for the 30th time in 2011. The highlight of the show will of course be the new, 235 hp Golf GTI Edition 35.

The Golf GTI Edition 35 uses the engine of the all-wheel drive Golf R, with its power adapted to the front-wheel drive. The XDS electronic differential lock provides improved levels of grip and pulling power in the corners. the 35 is already available for order across Europe, with prices starting at €30,425.

People who wear VW caps, shorts and socks will also be glad to know that Das Auto’s motorsport division Golf24, the 440 hp all-wheel drive Golf that will compete in this year’s 24-hour race at the Nurburgring in June.

“What our engineers and technicians have put on wheels for the 24-hour race is best described by the word Super Golf. In fact, the Golf24 is powered by a 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbo engine.” Dr. Donatus Wichelhaus, Director of Engine Development at Volkswagen Motorsport.

Because it’s GTI birthday, a second Golf race car, presented to fans in a debut at Worthersee too, will enter the competition at the ring as well - a freshly restored Golf GTI 16S Group 4 of the year 1977. Its 1.6-liter engine manages to put out over 200 horsepower without the aid of a turbocharger.