Volkswagen Golf R32 (2004)

Volkswagen Golf R32

Twenty years ago, the Volkswagen Golf R32 took the world by storm. First released in Europe, the Mk4 Golf R32 was groundbreaking with its narrow-angle 3.2-liter VR6® engine putting out 240 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual and 4Motion® all-wheel drive. In 2004, a made-for-America version was produced, bringing just over 5,000 units of the one-of-a-kind performance hatchback stateside.

The two-door 2004 R32 featured a special three-grille front bumper, side skirts, rear hatch spoiler, and rear valance with special dual-exit rear muffler. It rode on 18-inch multi-spoke wheels, paired with 225/40R18 performance summer tires and 13.1-inch front and 10.1-inch rear ventilated disc brakes. It was available in just four colors: Black Magic, Deep Blue, Reflex Silver, and Tornado Red. The interior mirrored the performance nature of the elevated hot hatch. Sport seats with integrated head restraints and supportive high bolsters sat alongside a sport steering wheel and aluminum interior accents, with “R” logo placement throughout.