Actually, it is from 1985, but it came later to Germany. It arose, as a variety of models from the 205 launched in 1983, a small car refined by Pininfarina. It received unashamedly the designation 'Gran Tourismo I njection' of the first Golf GTI, had its wheelbase and length, but a much better c_W value.

However, there was the Golf II in the meantime, so that the 205 GTI was now significantly smaller. As an intermediate step, there was the 205 Rallye and still above the road version of the Turbo with midengine, who has won the German championship(1985) and the World Rally Championship (1985/86) as well as Paris-Dakar (1987/88). The GTI was available with 1.6/1.9 litre and 77-96 kW (105-130 hp).

Two doors with tailgate, a special form of the C-pillar with the two famous horizontal ventilation slots and wider impact protection distinguished initially the GTI from the primary 205. Inside one sat on two-coloured bucket seats and had in hand a steering wheel with leather cover. One looked at visually improved instruments.

Compared with the 205, the front axle was strengthened. It was built until 1996, got soon an engine with 1.9 liter displacement. The initially produced 96 kW (130 hp) until it was reduced to 88 kW (120 HP) by the installation of a lambda control with catalyst. From 205 a total of 5.3 million cars were built. 06/14