Here's What Happens When A VW Golf GTI, GTD And R Do Battle On Track
We have no qualms spoiling the result here, as it’s a very predictable one: it’s the GTD in last, the GTI in the middle and the R at the top. However, Car.co.za’s Ciro De Siena notes that the R’s three second buffer over the GTI isn’t huge considering the 100,000 rand (around £6000) premium you have to stump up in South Africa, and he might have a point.
What we can’t help but wonder though, is just how close a GTI Performance might be, with its power increase, bigger brakes and VAQ front differential. It’d surely give the R a proper run for its money, and still be far cheaper.
The price difference between the GTI and R isn’t quite so big in the UK, but we’d still go for a GTI or GTI Performance, as it’s a more exciting, more engaging thing. The R just makes it all seem a bit too easy.
Which would you choose out of the GTI, GTD and R?
Growing up on a diet of World Rally Championship highlights and lengthy Gran Turismo 2 sessions, a life in cars was as good as inevitable for Matt.
Comments
GTI ClubSport
Gti cos manual
I wonder what would STD vs ST vs RS look like. Probably same as this, but still can we get it
Please
GTI because FWD
R. Fast and actually quite useable.
GTI also has greater history…
I still see why you would want the R though: the main reason is AWD.
GTI may come close to R on a dry track, but on real roads covered with mud and leaves, it stands no chance
My personal pick would be pre-facelift GTI Clubsport though
I bought a GTD, good looks, handles great and for an everyday car the characteristics and torque are so impressive. It’s £20 a year to tax and does double the mpg of my old V8 Audi S5. Winner winner. Maybe when I have a garage I’ll keep a little GTI in there for the weekend.
A golf R wagon
question, was the golf gtd part of dieselgate aswell?
where is the GTE at