Home/Volkswagen/Golf/Golf (1981-1983)/Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL
Volkswagen · Golf · Golf (1981-1983)

Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL

2.2out of 5Cars-Data Score

Top 70% of 1,671 Hatchback Diesel models in this price class.

HatchbackDieselManualFWDYear 1981
54
Horsepower · 40 kW
16.8s
0–100 km/h
143
km/h top speed
6.7
l/100 km

The Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL is a hatchback powered by a diesel engine delivering 54 hp (40 kW).

Updated Jun 2026 · Data curated by Cars-Data.com

Performance

It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 16.8 s and reaches a top speed of 143 km/h. Drive is routed to the front-wheel-drive axle via a manual.

Efficiency & range

Fuel efficiency stands at 6.7 l/100 km combined.

Generation & history

This variant was introduced in 1981 as part of the Volkswagen Golf (1981-1983) generation, and sits alongside 6 other variants in this generation.

Full specifications — including engine displacement, transmission type, dimensions, weight, and historical list price — are available on the specifications page.

Quick answers
What is the engine power of the Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL?

The Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL produces 54 hp (40 kW).

How fast does the Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h?

The Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 16.8 seconds.

What is the top speed of the Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL?

The top speed of the Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL is 143 km/h.

What is the fuel consumption of the Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL?

The Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL has a combined fuel consumption of 6.7 l/100 km.

What transmission does the Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL have?

The Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL is equipped with a Manual transmission.

Is the Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL front, rear, or all-wheel drive?

The Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL sends power through the FWD drivetrain.

What is the engine size of the Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL?

The Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL has a 1,588 cc engine with 4 cylinders.

What is the torque of the Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL?

The Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL produces 102 Nm of torque.

When was the Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL introduced?

The Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Diesel CL was introduced in 1981.

Across generations

Other Volkswagen Golf generations