Clear MOT

[TitanTim]

Here is one: https://fastestlaps.com/comparisons/pzggtu6jho2v

Conclusion: Verdict

Golf GTI 1.8 is the fastest by a huge margin.

In those days, XR2s were not even seen as a competitor of the Golf GTI.

Even the XR3 was not a competitor:

https://fastestlaps.com/comparisons/66etzrmk67dl

Sorry I was thinking more of the MK1 fiesta XR2 released in 1981 and the comparable GTI 1.6 at the time rather than 1.8 which I think was released slightly later. Having said that fiesta was probably lighter and more nimble. Would love to drive both so probably talking rubbish

Only driven the XR2 which was a 1981 car and it did drive and handle well.

Tim.

[Special Kay]

No power steering though, so it is a full body work out from turning corners to trying to brake

I never missed power steering on the mk1 golf when I had them. It wasn't even an issue when parking in tight gaps in central London. It wasn't until I brought a car that had power steering, that I realised how effortless steering can be .