1988 Volkswagen Golf II (5-door, facelift 1987) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Volkswagen Golf II (5-door, facelift 1987) ranges from 910 kg to 1105 kg (about 2006 to 2437 lbs), depending on the specific trim and options. Its maximum allowable weight ranges from 1370 kg to 1570 kg (approximately 3020 to 3462 lbs). A lighter curb weight contributes to nimble handling characteristics and better fuel economy compared to larger vehicles. The relatively low mass also helps the Golf II to be responsive on the road, promoting an engaging driving experience while keeping operational costs manageable.

The Volkswagen Golf II provides a practical luggage capacity given its compact size. With all seats in the upright position, it offers between 230 and 345 liters (8.1 to 12.2 cubic feet) of storage space, which is suitable for everyday groceries or small luggage pieces. When the rear seats are folded down, the available luggage capacity expands significantly to between 1030 and 1145 liters (36.4 to 40.4 cubic feet), allowing for the transport of larger items such as bicycles or bulkier cargo, enhancing the versatility of the hatchback layout.

The Volkswagen Golf II (5-door, facelift 1987) was equipped with an array of rim sizes including 5J x 13, 6J x 14, 6.5J x 14, and 5.5J x 15, coupled with tire sizes such as 155/65 R13, 185/60 R14, 195/50 R15, and 175/70 R13. Smaller rims with higher profile tires like 155/65 R13 typically improve ride comfort by providing more sidewall cushioning, which is ideal for everyday driving on rough city roads. Meanwhile, larger rims and lower profile tires (e.g., 195/50 R15) enhance cornering stability and sportier handling but might slightly reduce comfort on uneven surfaces.

Yes, the Volkswagen Golf II (5-door, facelift 1987) fits comfortably within a standard home garage. With its length ranging from 3985 mm to 4040 mm (157 to 159 inches) and width between 1665 mm and 1700 mm (65.6 to 67 inches), it is smaller than typical garage interior dimensions which often measure at least 6 meters (19.7 feet) in depth and 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) in width. This compact profile not only facilitates parking but also allows room to move around the vehicle inside the garage.

Compared to its predecessor, the Volkswagen Golf I, the Golf II (5-door, facelift 1987) features slightly increased exterior dimensions and improved interior space. The length of the Golf I was around 3700 mm (145.7 inches), whereas the Golf II ranges from 3985 mm to 4040 mm (157 to 159 inches), making it noticeably longer. The width and height were also increased from approximately 1600 mm (63 inches) and 1400 mm (55 inches) in the Golf I to 1665-1700 mm (65.6-67 inches) width and 1405-1415 mm (55.3-55.7 inches) height respectively in the Golf II. These incremental changes translated into enhanced passenger comfort and more cargo room, while maintaining a compact hatchback profile suitable for everyday use.

Dimensionally, the Volkswagen Golf II (5-door, facelift 1987) is on par with other popular compact hatchbacks from the late 1980s, such as the Ford Escort and Opel Kadett, which typically featured lengths around 4 meters (157 inches) and widths near 1.7 meters (67 inches). The Golf II’s dimensions reflect industry standards for practicality and urban maneuverability of the time while offering competitive interior space and cargo capacity. Its relatively modest height between 1405 and 1415 mm (55.3 to 55.7 inches) helped maintain a low center of gravity for good handling, a trait appreciated in sporty yet practical hatchbacks.

The Volkswagen Golf II facelift offered multiple rim and tire size combinations to suit different driving preferences and conditions. Rim sizes ranged from a smaller 5J x 13 to larger options such as 6J x 14, 6.5J x 14, 5.5J x 15, and 13 inches in diameter. Corresponding tire sizes included 155/65 R13, 185/60 R14, 195/50 R15, and 175/70 R13. Smaller rims with higher-profile tires generally provide a smoother ride and better absorption of road irregularities, ideal for city commuting, whereas larger rims with low-profile tires improve road grip and cornering ability, providing a sportier driving feel at the expense of slightly reduced comfort.

The Volkswagen Golf II (5-door, facelift 1987) was known for its solid build quality, practical hatchback design, and improved packaging that accommodated more passengers and cargo efficiently. It carried forward the reputation of the Golf series for offering excellent handling, reliable engine options, and user-friendly controls. The facelift in 1987 introduced updated styling with more modern bumpers and lighting elements, making the car visually appealing. Its reasonable fuel consumption, multiple trim options, and maintenance accessibility helped make it popular among commuters, small families, and driving enthusiasts throughout its production until 1991.

The curb weight of the Volkswagen Golf II (5-door, facelift 1987) varies between 910 kg and 1105 kg (approximately 2006 to 2437 lbs), depending on trim level, engine size, and equipment. Lighter variants tend to be more nimble and fuel-efficient, enhancing acceleration and braking performance, whereas heavier models might incorporate additional safety features or luxury options that add weight but improve ride comfort and stability. Weight also influences tire wear and suspension tuning; thus, manufacturers balanced weight carefully to optimize handling while maintaining durability and comfort in this versatile hatchback.