1982 Volkswagen Jetta

The first generation of the Volkswagen Jetta was produced from 1979 through 1984. It made its debut in 1979 at the Frankfurt Auto Show with production beginning in August at the Wolfsburg plant. Bodystyles including a two-door sedan and a four-door sedan, both of which had a traditional three-box design and angular styling created by ItalDesign, by Giorgetto Giugiaro. There were various changes throughout the different world markets, but most were available with composite headlamps, although the U.S. had rectangular sealed beam lamps due to the Safety Regulations. The wheelbase measured 94.5 inches and the suspension consisted of a MacPherson strut setup in the front with a twist-beam rear setup.

The U.S. version of the 1982 Gold was powered by an overhead-cam four-cylinder engine displacing 105 cubic-inches and offering 74 horsepower. Transmission options included a four-speed automatic, or a four- or five-speed automatic. Pricing began at $8,400 for the 2-door sedan and rose to $8,600 for the four-door body style. Minimal changes occurred in 1982 and standard equipment included power brakes, dual remote mirrors, intermittent wipers, tinted glass, padded steering wheel, woodgrain instrument panel, AM/FM stereo, and floor console.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2019