1986 Volkswagen Scirocco 16V Test Dive
Just like in real life, good looks and charm can be used to mask the shortcomings in an automobile. Take the Volkswagen Scirocco as a case in point. Since the day it was introduced in Germany in 1974, the stylish 2+2 liftback lived with far less power than it really deserved. The Giugiaro-penned little coupe was replaced by an in house designed in 1981, but the aerodynamic efficiency of the second Scirocco wasn’t backed up by the substance of a competitive sports car horsepower.
The worldwide performance Renaissance that blossomed throughout the industry during the 80s finally forced VW’s hand. The top of the line Scirocco GTX model was given an engine and suspension transplant from the extremely successful GTI to help it stay at least somewhat competitive in Europe. The US version was also fitted with the US GTI’s power plant, but 100 ponies really wasn’t competitive with the output of the stateside competition. For 1986, though, the Scirooco lineup received a massive shot of the right stuff. At the hear of the performance upgrade was a new 16-valve 4 cylinder engine, which VW specifically targeted for use in the up level Scirocco and the GTI.
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