’80s CABRIOLETS

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF Mk1

It seems hard to think of the Mk1 Golf Cabriolet as a 50-year-old concept, but it’s not so far off. The idea dates back to 1976 when it was presented to Volkswagen management by coachbuilder Karmann, which had previously developed – and was still making – the Beetle Cabriolet. Karmann’s original proposal featured concealed hood stowage and no fixed frames, but by its launch in 1979 it sported a simpler and more cost-efficient hood that piled up on the back deck and gained a roll-over hoop in the name of safety. While it wasn’t specifically targeted as a replacement for the Beetle Cabriolet, the two only overlapped for 11 months and the latter was discontinued when it became obvious that the Golf was going to sell well.

The loss of the Beetle led to a funeral procession of enthusiasts in Wolfsburg, but VW – mindful of the PR opportunity