I must admit to being a fan of the MKI Golf. Even the base models were lovely to drive. I still own the pickup version (Caddy) although I haven't had it on the road in a few years. It can take a half ton payload and average 50MPG. The diesel Golf was a game changer in its time and much quicker than people realise, there's a knack in getting the best out of it. The power band was narrow and you need to stay in it. Mine has about 400,000 miles on the original engine and gearbox. Find me any other '70s small family car that would clock up that sort of mileage without several rebuilds.
Only the last couple of years of MK I production were undersealed at the factory so they lasted much better than earlier cars. But they all rusted back then and I remember five year old Cortinas with rust holes in the boot floor. A friend of my Dad's bought a new Talbot Sunbeam and the rear suspension mounting pulled out of the body due to rust when it was three years old. The Golf was better than rubbish like that.
The only thing that really gave bother in the MK I Golf was electrics, which is odd considering they didn't really have much electrical stuff! The gearbox was a strange one in that if treated with respect, they'd last pretty much forever, but the slightest hint of rough treatment would break them.
I look forward to returning my Caddy to the road in the next year or two now that I have more spare cash.
The MK II was a better car and addressed the MK I's shortcomings but never felt as agile IMO.
But yes, the 205 was better than either IMO.
