Is it a 4-speed or a 5-speed??

Bit of an odd question this, 1980 (w reg) 1.6 GTI. Looks like a series 2 (larger rear lights etc) although it does have the earlier s1 fuse box. HOWEVER….. had it running for the first time in 23 years yesterday after more than a years worth of work, and to our surprise, no 5th gear. It is clearly marked on the gear knob (alright that could have been changed!) and the gear stick appears to go into the correct position for 5th, but there just isn't a gear there!

Is it possible we could have a 4 speed box? The car is low millage and as I said it has been off the road for 23 years so it seems unlikely anyone has changed the box since new. I had thought the 1980 model came with a 5 speed as standard.

any advice much appreciated!

Have a look at the gearbox code on the plate at the bottom of the bellhousing and refer to http://vwgolfmk1.org.uk/index.php?page=cedi&type=misc&id=1%2F42%2F25  The link on the end of that wiki to brokevw is very useful too.  The is an extra part of the gearlinkage attached to the steering rack for 5 speed.  If you've had the linkage off it may just need re adjusting http://vwgolfmk1.org.uk/index.php?page=cedi&type=misc&id=1%2F42%2F2

There is an extra bit on the end of the gearbox with a green circular cover that looks like a tin lid. 4 speeds don't have this.