Volkswagen has just revived the legendary special model “Fire and Ice” on the basis of an ID.3. The origin in the early 1990s was a Golf II, which, with the help of the cult fashion designer Willy Bogner Junior, became one of the most iconic special editions of Wolfsburg. And with exactly this model we competed in the Autostadt team at the Rallye Saxony Classic.
The “Fire and Ice“To a certain extent, the crowning glory of the special models is certainly not poor history of VW Golf II in autumn 1990 Volkswagen the special model Golf II “Fire and Ice”-available only in the model year 1991, based on the GTI model. The naming is based on the film “Feuer, Eis & Dynamit” by Willy Bogner Junior, with Roger Moore in the leading role.
Technically, the special model is based on the proven 1.8-liter ottomotors of the Golf II: 90 hp, 107 hp (8-ventiler), 129 hp (16V) or 160 hp (G60) are available. Alternatively, there is a 1.6-liter turbodiesel with 80 hp. Externally follows the Fire and ICE of the sporty GTI-Line and the golf-II facelift from 1989: wide sills, wheel skating extensions, narrow decorative strips, partially painted bumpers, painted exterior mirrors-as well as a body in the iconic Violet Perle Effect (color code LC4V).
Image von: Björn Reiss
Large-scale Fire-and-ice stickers on the C-pillars, round emblems instead of side indicators on the front fenders as well as pink-colored lettering and a graphics logo at the rear next to the “Golf” lettering are striking. The wheels are Estoril aluminum rims in size 6×15 inches, related to 185/55 R 15 tires.
In the interior, the special model is deliberately unconventional: sports seat backrests with embroidered “Fire and Ice” emblems, violet-blue reference substances, black or anthracite-colored carpet and headlining as well as a corresponding logo on the ashtray.
Image by: Volkswagen
On October 19, 1990, the introduction in Germany is starting; A total of around 2,500 vehicles are created, including around 2,000 with the 90 hp four cylinder. And this is exactly what we can move 35 years later during the classic car rally “Saxony Classic”. In addition to the “Fire and Ice”, the Autostadt team also sets one beetle 1303 Cabrio. A good decision, because the weather is absolutely convertible at 35 degrees in the shade and cloudless sky. In contrast, the climate nose golf with its dark varnish quickly gets to the incubator.
The air conditioning is also the only modern equipment feature that can be used in the old Golf Really missed. Otherwise, it becomes clear to me again how simple and low -stress the analog drive from back then. Get in, turn the key (which also looks like in the beetle), insert walk and drive off. No touching, not entering navigation, no born and bums, just go.
Image by: Volkswagen
And the golf can still drive after 35 years. With his extensive 1.8er, which buzzes soothingly, we cruise through the Saxon landscapes. “Our” Golf is not a top restored museum piece or a well -kept copy with a few kilometers, but has already had a lifelong life in the truest sense in which he has deteriorated almost 100,000 kilometers.
Solid to the mark
Table of Contents
- 1. Solid to the mark
- 2. Suitable for race tracks!
- 3. Enthusiasm is unbroken
- 4. What mechanical issues were common during 1980s road trips in a VW Golf II?
- 5. VW Golf II’s historic Journey: The Road Trip with Lots of Fire and No Ice Cream
- 6. The Genesis of a Legend: Early Golf II Production (1983-1985)
- 7. The 1980s Road Trip: A typical Scenario
- 8. Engine Evolution: From Carburetion to Fuel Injection (1985-1990)
- 9. Special Editions & The Rise of the GTI
- 10. The Golf II Today: Restoration & Preservation
Nevertheless, the golf simply drives well, does not rattle and shows no symptoms. This is how quality works! The five-speed cable switching hooked a little as ever, but is easy to use, and in the excellent sports armchairs you still sit even better today than in most expensive option seats of the present. The car is in the best hands of the Autostadt team and is perfectly maintained there. And mainly moves on every opportunity. That’s how it belongs!
Image by: Volkswagen
The sonorous hum of the four -cylinder calms and slow down, so that the actual values of the car driving are more clearly felt. So you are happy when the Golf also keeps up with the old Porsche and other sports car icons in the mountains thanks to its good drain or, because of its easy-to-dose coupling, also makes the almost forgotten game with gas, handbrake and coupling a slight practice.
The power steering that was still surprisingly heavy on the stand turns out to be at a higher pace than enjoyment. The Golf controls, which is keen to feedback and relatively directly, shows that Volkswagen understood the topic of steering 35 years ago. In this way, the car can – not least because of its small width – can circle around the bends in a playful manner, even on narrow country roads, also with a surprising (and surprising) oncoming traffic.
Suitable for race tracks!
But the Golf can do it differently! One of the countless special exams of the Saxons Classic takes place on the Lausitzring GP course. It is not about the fastest lap time, but we still let the Golf fly properly. And he doesn’t disappoint us, on the contrary! Due to the low weight, the relatively wide tires and the great steering mentioned, the two flies around the route and offers a lot of grip. No tire squeal, no slides, hardly understeer – the chassis can still be fully convincing today.
Image by: Thomas Kurz
The oldie is totally unimpressed by this rather unusual hunt over the racetrack. Only an exhaust suspension does not survive the robber about the curbs, but this is fixed in record time by the passing service team of the Autostadt and VW Classic, so that we did not even deal with a penalty period. If necessary, yellow angels from the rally partner ADAC are also available, of which the organizer has several participants in the entire rally. And due to the heat mentioned, they don’t remain unemployed, keyword “air -cooled” …
Our water -cooled golf, on the other hand, is completely unimpressed by the heat. Even in frequent queues before the special tests, the needle of the temperature display never goes beyond the middle. Exemplary. Not least because of this, it quickly becomes clear why the Golf II in particular is considered an incredibly good car at that time and the competition in all tests (and also sales statistics) pulls away for miles.
Image by: Thomas Kurz
We can only dream of such successes at Saxony Classic. In view of the strong competition, some of which takes part in five to six classical rally a year and was well equipped, we can be quite satisfied with an overall place in the first third of the table. Once even with third place, we can make the jump to the podium of a sperm test.
Enthusiasm is unbroken
But that’s not the crucial point. The joy of the classic, which has been celebrated everywhere, is much more important. There are tons of spectators in each village who cheer each of the more than 130 participants. Even with the individual stages and tests, which are mostly in great castle systems or picturesque marketplaces, there are hundreds of spectators on site and celebrate every car. In spite of all calls to the art, the enthusiasm for the topic of car seems unbroken and there were by no means only old men who celebrate here …
Image of: Hans-Dieter Seufert
Image of: Hans-Dieter Seufert
In the three days we not only got to know the qualities of the old Golf, but also the Free State of Saxony at its best. The demanding route leads from Dresden via Lausitz to the Ore Mountains, navigates exclusively via the roadbook. The marking tests in which certain routes have to be driven in a precisely specified time separate the chaff from wheat, because only mechanical stopwatches can be measured here. It takes a lot of feeling and experience.
In the end there is again the realization that maybe not everything was better in the past, but the old times also had their charms. The three days in the old Golf were a lot of fun and the event is hard to beat in terms of quality. That makes you want more!
In addition, there is still a lot of interesting classics in the Autostadt, which you can look at. We will soon dig in the depot to pull even more slumbering treasures to light. Promised.
Image of: Hans-Dieter Seufert
What mechanical issues were common during 1980s road trips in a VW Golf II?
VW Golf II’s historic Journey: The Road Trip with Lots of Fire and No Ice Cream
The Genesis of a Legend: Early Golf II Production (1983-1985)
The Volkswagen Golf II,launched in 1983,wasn’t just a replacement for the hugely successful Mk1; it was a refinement,a step forward in automotive engineering. Initial production focused on solidifying the Golf’s position as a practical, reliable, and affordable family car. Early models, often featuring carbureted engines, were known for their robust build quality, though perhaps not for blistering performance. The “fire” in our road trip analogy refers to the engine’s sometimes temperamental nature – requiring a skilled hand to keep running smoothly,especially on long journeys. These early VW Golfs were a common sight on European roads, representing a shift towards front-wheel drive and a more modern driving experience.
The 1980s Road Trip: A typical Scenario
Imagine a typical 1980s family road trip in a VW Golf II. Forget air conditioning, and definitely forget readily available ice cream at every stop. These journeys were about the destination, and the adventure of getting there.
Mechanical Challenges: Expect frequent stops for minor repairs. Distributor caps, carburetors, and cooling systems were common culprits. A toolkit and a basic understanding of automotive mechanics were essential.
navigation: Road atlases and physical maps were the onyl guides. Getting lost was part of the experience.
Entertainment: Cassette tapes and the car radio provided the soundtrack.
Comfort: Limited legroom and basic seating meant long drives could be tiring.
Fuel Economy: While relatively efficient for its time,the Golf II’s fuel consumption wasn’t remarkable,making fuel stops a regular occurrence.
This era of motoring demanded patience, resourcefulness, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. The Golf II became a symbol of this spirit.
Engine Evolution: From Carburetion to Fuel Injection (1985-1990)
the mid-to-late 1980s saw notable engine advancements in the VW Golf Mk2. The introduction of fuel injection – initially in the GTI models, then spreading to other variants – dramatically improved performance, reliability, and fuel efficiency. This marked a turning point in the Golf II’s journey.
Digijet & Motronic: Bosch’s Digijet and later Motronic fuel injection systems were pivotal.
GTI Performance: the GTI models, with their 1.8L and later 2.0L engines, became increasingly popular with driving enthusiasts.
Diesel Options: Improved diesel engines offered increased fuel economy and torque, making the Golf II a practical choice for long-distance travel.
Reduced Maintenance: Fuel injection reduced the need for frequent carburetor adjustments, simplifying maintenance.
These improvements meant fewer roadside breakdowns and a more enjoyable road trip experience, though the “no ice cream” aspect remained largely unchanged – roadside convenience stores were still relatively scarce. Classic VW Golf enthusiasts often prefer these later models for their improved drivability.
Special Editions & The Rise of the GTI
Volkswagen consistently released special editions of the Golf II to maintain interest and appeal to different demographics.The GTI, in particular, became an icon.
GTI 16V: The 16-valve GTI, introduced in 1987, offered significantly increased power and performance.
Campaign Editions: Limited-edition models with unique trim and features were released throughout the Golf II’s production run.
Country/Syncro Models: The Golf Country and Syncro models, with their all-wheel drive systems, expanded the Golf II’s capabilities, making it suitable for more challenging terrain.
Sportline: A sporty trim level offering a balance between performance and comfort.
These special editions added to the Golf II’s legacy and cemented its status as a versatile and desirable compact car.
The Golf II Today: Restoration & Preservation
Today, the VW Golf II enjoys a thriving classic car community. Restoration projects are common, with enthusiasts meticulously restoring these cars to their original glory.
Parts Availability: While some parts can be tough to find, a dedicated network of suppliers caters to the Golf II community.
Rust Repair: Rust is a common issue with older Golf IIs, requiring careful attention during restoration.
Originality vs. Modification: A debate exists within the community regarding the extent to wich cars should be restored to original specifications versus modified for improved performance or modern amenities.
Investment Potential: Well-maintained and original Golf IIs, particularly GTI models, are appreciating in value.
The VW Golf II restoration* process is a labor of love,driven by a passion for this iconic car. The enduring appeal of the Golf II
