Volkswagen Displays the Golf Rally Prototype at SEMA
Next to the freshly refined Volkswagen Jetta GLI, a few crossovers, and camping gear, the 1990 Golf impacted the 2022 SEMA show. However, this particular Golf is no ordinary hatchback. The unique VW Golf features protruding wheel arches and a hood that appears like someone pierced it with a hole puncher. The 1993 Volkswagen Rallye Golf 3 A59 prototype is a sight to behold. The VW prototype was initially a homologation (granted official approval to compete) for the 1994 World Rally Championship. Unfortunately, the hot hatch never competed, so the world missed a lifetime opportunity.
The Rallye Golf prototype roared to life with assistance from the German firm Schmidt Motorsport. Additionally, the German firm erected the ferocious Mk 3 Golf with a specially developed engine, reworked suspension, and robust frame. Inside the A59 prototype is an all-aluminum turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four forging 275 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The most potent GTI of the A59 prototype’s era barely produced 175 horsepower. Furthermore, a six-speed manual transmission propels all four wheels through a variable center differential.
The Volkswagen Golf A59 sports 16-inch five-spoke Speedline wheels with 225/45R16 tires. Additionally, the tires were affixed to a front strut suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers, wider control arms, and a multilink rear suspension with Bilstein struts. Moreover, the A59 sports Brembo brakes with cross-drilled discs for those hard stops.
The VW prototype features exterior body panels coated in carbon fiber and Kevlar. In addition, the A59 features a refined front bumper, toned wheel arches, side skirts, rear spoiler, and a thicker rear bumper to conceal those quad exhaust pipes for a more devious appeal. Back to the whole punching cutout on the hood, a stroke of genius for the ingenious automakers for cooling. The VW A59 features Recari seats, a three-spoke steering wheel, and a digital dashboard.
If the Volkswagen A59 were to compete, the German automaker would need to build 2500 of the vehicle for others to enjoy. Unfortunately, the project was abandoned, which means there is only one way to bear witness to the A59. Luckily, the VW powertrain recorded class victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
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Photo Source/Copyright: Volkswagen Newsroom