This very late MK 5 Golf R32 is the youngest addition to the Classic Heroes Collection. The baby of the pack.

 

We have always been partial to a good handling, fast Golf. Indeed we started our Collection with a lovely MK 1 GTi and then added a superb big bumper MK 2 16v version, owned from new by one of our longest standing customers.

 

The MK 5 Golf was a return to form for VW and the Golf family. It was a comprehensive redesign and a major step forward from the outgoing MK 4 version. VW's engineers made a significant improvement to the dynamic ability of their new Golf, the design was modern and striking and they put a heap load of fun back into the driving experience. The MK 3 and MK 4 were pretty unloved by most enthusiasts. The MK 5 turned that around and provided the platform for the Golf to regain it's pride and has gone from strength to strength right up to the lastest MK 7 and the formidable current R32.

 

However, even the latest R32 has something missing from the locker that the MK 5 has up its sleeve or more accurately, under its bonnet. The MK 5 R32 was the last of the 6 cylinder normally aspirated Golf's. It's jewel like 3,189 cc V6 engine was the last of the line before VW switched to 4 cylinder turbo power for the Mk 6 and Mk 7.

 

The idea of sticking a 3.2 litre V6 in a mid sized family hatch back with 4 wheel drive and 250 bhp is slightly mad but also genius in our view. It truly is a Wolf in sheep's clothing, and another in a long line of great Q cars that can be anonymous when you want but give you the power to shock and torment when you choose.

 

This five door, 6 speed manual version was first registered on 18th March 2009 and has only covered 27,000 miles from new. It has a great service history and all the right options ticked on the build sheet - Full leather, SatNat, Media pack and sits resplendent on its 18 inch Omanyt alloy wheels which perfectly complement its beautiful Reflex silver paint.

 

We feel certain that in years to come the MK 5 R32 will be looked back on as a real high point in the evolution of the Golf. In the meantime, we are going to have great fun enjoying its day to day usability and sonorous exhaust note.