Importing Parts from South Africa for a Build
Transform the classic aesthetics of a 1979 Volkswagen Golf, pack it with the powerful engine of a later R32 hot hatch, and incorporate even more alterations; that is the recipe for concocting this pristine car from South Africa. It’s understandable why the owner is so enamored with the finished product.
In 2014, he obtained this car, yet didn’t advance it to its current condition until recently. Beforehand, the exterior was a blue color, however a fresh layer of yellow-orange paint was included in the contemporary modifications. He titled his innovation Escobar after the well-known Colombian drug lord.
Modifying a vehicle in South Africa appears to be tough, mainly due to the necessity of importing most of its parts. The plain front façade is simply European-spec. In addition, the individual was obliged to acquire the power steering wheel, rims, pop-up windows and engine hood externally.
The Golf features a number of mechanical modifications as well. An air suspension system enables it to crouch down over the rims. Also, the hidden wires and removal of the brake booster help preserve an elegant aesthetic beneath the bonnet. Though, unfortunately, there could be potential effects on maneuverability due to the absence of power brakes.
The interior offers Recaro seating with a combination of both Nappa and Alcantara material. Powerful sound insulation keeps the atmosphere in the cabin peaceful. The roll bar is polished metal; meanwhile, for the door pulls you’ll find Porsche has provided.
The footage depicts the Golf merely coasting, thus not allowing spectators the opportunity to fully hear the R32 engine. Still, at low revolutions, its powerplant produces a deep and throaty tone.
Volkswagen let loose the R32 in the US for 2004. The designation of its alpha-numeric name denoted a 3.2-liter VR6 lurking beneath the hood, making it at the time, the factory’s strongest Golf they had released. It boasted 240 ponies and 236 lb-ft of torque with a sole six-speed manual transmission, excepting other countries where it had a dual-clutch option. They unfortunately limited themselves to only 5,000 units in North America.
For 2008, the R32 reemerged in the US, boasting the acclaimed fifth-generation Golf frame enclosing a slender angle V6 motor. It produced an impressive 250 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, and now featuring only a 6 speed dual-clutch transmission, with all-wheel drive capabilities.
Source: Cars.co.za via YouTube