A TRUE SERIES 1

I read various articles about early mk1 gti's with some having small dash but larger lights etc. and a mix of evolved changes between 79 and 80. My question is this. Is the true original series 1 a small rear light small dash 4 speed with tartan trim and steel wheels? (like mine )

No, the definition for a Series 1 on the Register is a Model Year of '80 (VIN digit 3rd letter as A) or earlier. This means small lights, early dash but 4 or 5-speed gearbox. Alloy wheels were a factory option for '79 onwards.

Cheers
Rajan

OK thanks for the info, did'nt realise alloys were an option on 79 models, have to bin my steelies then and get some nine spokes

Series 1 factory alloys are a 12-spoke design, as fitted to my car. The 9-spokes were for Series 2 and post '80 Cabs only (for Golfs).

Personally I would stick with the steels for originality, unless they are a bit rough.

Cheers
Rajan

Thank you for that info as well, the steels are in exellent condition, i think they have been powder coated as there is no rust on them, i think i will stick with them.