The Golf I Cabriolet (Revell Shop link) is more than just an automobile – it’s a driving time capsule of the late 70s and 80s. Manufactured from 1979 to 1993 by Karmann in Osnabrück, this special vehicle wrote automotive history and became the best-selling convertible of its time.
The success story began in 1979 when Volkswagen, together with Karmann, launched the Golf I convertible.
Unlike the regular Golf, Karmann took over the complete production – from the pressed parts to the final assembly. Volkswagen only supplied the technical components such as engine, chassis, and interior. The construction of the convertible was a technical masterpiece. To compensate for the missing roof structure, the body was extensively reinforced. Additional cross members, reinforced sills, and the characteristic roll bar made the convertible about 100kg heavier than the closed version. However, these reinforcements were necessary to ensure the stability and safety of the vehicle.
The Strawberry Basket as a Film and Television Star
This roll bar and the compact shape led to the special nickname “Strawberry Basket” for the Golf I Cabriolet, and because of or despite this, it quickly became a cult car and status symbol. Especially in the popular series Schwarzwaldklinik, Sascha Hehn as doctor’s son Udo Brinkmann shaped the image of the vehicle – not least through his characteristic way of jumping in and out over the doors instead of opening them.
In the American series “Remington Steele”, Stephanie Zimbalist as Laura Holt drove a white specimen, long before her co-star Pierce Brosnan became James Bond. And even in the successful series “Dallas”, the Golf Cabriolet was represented – Miss Ellie proudly drove a white specimen with the license plate “EWING 1”.
Evolution and Special Features
In 1988, the Cabriolet received a significant update with the “Clipper” bodykit. The new, color-coordinated bumpers, extended wheel arches, and side skirts gave the vehicle a more modern appearance. The revised radiator grille was oriented towards the design of the Golf II, while the basic concept of the Mk1 was retained. Towards the end of the production period, two special editions appeared: The sporty “Sportline” in red or black with BBS RA wheels and striking Recaro seats, as well as the luxurious “Rivage” with heated leather seats in green or blue. These final editions are particularly sought after by collectors today.
The Golf for Model Builders
For us model builders, the Golf I Cabriolet offers a wealth of fascinating details. The technical features such as the roll bar, body reinforcements, and the various equipment variants allow for a detailed reproduction of this automotive icon. The long production time and the various stages of evolution also offer the possibility to mod different versions.
The Golf I Cabriolet combines technical innovation, cultural significance, and timeless design. For hobbyists, it’s a fascinating project that perfectly reflects the development of automotive technology and design of the 80s. With its various equipment variants and technical evolution over the production period, it offers the unique opportunity to capture a piece of automotive history in miniature format. No wonder, then, that this special model should not be missing from any sophisticated collection.
The fact that there was never a direct successor based on the Golf II and that the Mk1 Cabriolet was produced until the introduction of the Golf III Cabriolet underlines its special position in automotive history. With a production number of over 388,522 units until 1991, it was the best-selling convertible of its time and is now a sought-after classic.
Highlights of the Kit
In our 1:24 scale kit at Level 4 (for advanced modelers), there are a total of 123 parts, from which you will get a finished model with a length of 15.4 cm and a width of 7.2 centimeters.
The decal set includes, in addition to a modern H license plate that perfectly matches the convertible, the characteristic checkered design of the seats and door panels.
Revell Shop link
Scope of Delivery
- Plastic model kit (not assembled)
- Illustrated, multilingual assembly instructions
- Decals for authentic details
- Revell Aqua Color basic paints
- Revell Contacta Professional Mini adhesive
- Brush
Special Features
- Movable hood for realistic details
- Can be built with closed or open roof
- Authentic decals for an original look
- Including paints, glue, and brush – ready to start immediately
- Perfect for collectors and beginners in model building
Inspirations for Building
The title of this video doesn’t disappoint – the sound of the Golf is truly divine!
And what Patrick Knölke has filmed here is commonly called car porn 
A test report from 1980 on the Golf I Cabrio