Carrera Evo/D132 Golf GTi Tuner

Review by CoMod JoergW of Gothe lf GTi Tuner
(analog 27230/digital 30430)

1. OptikGeneration
Carrera meets the Go lf Generation !
Introduced in 1976, the Golf Gti, with its 110 PS Go , was the most powerful variant to date of the VW lf I, which had been launched in 1974 and ultimately left its mark on—and lent its name to—an entire generation. For many young people in the 1970s, the GTi was the dream sports car—but one that only a few could afford. Secondhand GTis and visually souped-up standard lfsGo were the norm and provided constant competition for the significantly cheaper Opel Manta, Asona, or Kadett C-Coupé. Carrera has now made a strong entry into the world of the 1970s with this model—and, of course, the Opel Manta, which is being released at the same time. Carrera-Kids from the ’70s are now family men with hobby rooms, and before a model train set finds its way in there, they need some alternatives. The detailed look is well executed, with special-effect paint, an extreme tuning kit on the rear rack, and the little bunny. GoBack then in the U.S., the lf was called “Rabitt” (meaning “rabbit”). Only the rear tires look a bit too aggressive, though that might be due to the handling characteristics. I consider the fairly large gap in the rear wheel well a minor flaw, which fortunately doesn’t affect handling and will open up plenty of tuning potential.

2. Technology
Go : The lf also features a new option to service the rear axle without having to disassemble the entire chassis. To remove the chassis, unclip the rear trim panel with the exhaust tips; this gives you access to the two rear screws securing the body. The steering angle of the keel is still good; losing traction in tight turns is rare, depending on driving style.

3.
Workmanship: Go The LF makes a solid impression and shows no signs of poor workmanship. The plastic and construction can withstand the rigors of everyday use on slot car tracks and aren’t easily damaged, even by veering off into the curbs. The interior is quite cramped, and when reattaching a removed body, you have to be careful not to pinch any cables.

4. Handling
At 100 g, the GTi is surprisingly heavy for such a small car, which really surprised me the first time I picked it up. What stood out to me were the tires—not so much their attractive tread pattern as their completely new feel to the touch. The tires’ consistency promised good grip, which was confirmed during extensive driving tests. The tires, which provide excellent grip, make the GTi significantly more controllable than comparable vehicles with different tires. The GTi excels in acceleration and cornering and is virtually unshakable. With its two magnets, it’s very beginner- and child-friendly and can be adapted to the driver’s growing skill level by gradually removing the two magnets or the spacers.

5. Miscellaneous
: A bold and appropriate choice of vehicle—let’s see how it’s received and how well it sells. Personally, I’d love to see a few more tuned cars from the ’70s… basically everything I wasn’t allowed to get as my first car back then ;-) As the ad said: “Just say we drive GoLF.” Sure, gladly.

CoMod
JoergW--------------------------------------------------------------------


-Test report by CoMod Lotus on Go the lf GTi Tuner
(analog 27230/digital 30430)

Wörthersee in the slot...
In 1975, a car was unveiled at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt that would become the epitome of an entire class of cars and go down in history: the VW Golf GTI. Originally intended as a limited run of 5,000 units for motorsports, approximately 1.5 million units have been sold to date.

From the very beginning, the GTI was a favorite among tuners— z.B . from professional firms like . Öttinger to backyard garages and everyday DIY enthusiasts. The aftermarket industry provided everything that made the car more attractive, faster, or simply more eye-catching. And ever since it became a used car—if not before—people have been adding every possible modification to the GTI. The 1 Series GTI was a typical product of its time: low, wide, stiff, with a spoiler. :-)

At the annual VW scene gathering at Lake Wörthersee, you can still marvel at all the things people have done to the 1 Series. And now, the most coveted icon of our automotive youth is available as a slot car from Carrera. Specifically, in the classic tuned version with big rims, fat tires, and massive spoilers.

Let’s get started.: This Golf also features the new chassis design from with Carrera a removable axle unit for rear-axle maintenance. Loosen one screw, and the whole assembly comes right out. The distance between the front wing and the front axle is just right; the angle of the front wing is okay, but could be just a tad less steep. The chassis is very sturdy and, above all, straight (by the way, the body screws at the rear are located under the trim on the rear bumper). The body itself is, as Carrerausual, very robust. Removable mirrors are now standard, putting an end to that annoying search on the carpet.

The printing is very clean and precise, and the paint job is top-notch. Details like z.B . the GTI grille and the nitrous oxide tanks in the rear of Gothe car are particularly nice. . One of my favorite features is the two-piece wheels with chrome rims. Looks are one thing; driving performance is another.

To cut to the chase:: the little GTI does its big role model proud. Thanks to the strong magnets, the car drives as if on rails. It’s a car that’s absolutely perfect for a child’s room—one that the little ones will have a lot of fun with. Advanced drivers can test their personal limits by removing the center and rear magnets and the spacers, though the car generally remains controllable. It has excellent acceleration, and the visually appealing tires—which feature a replica V-profile—offer excellent grip. The 100-gram body isn’t the lightest for a car of this size, but it also keeps the car well-balanced in the slot; in terms of handling, there’s no difference between the digital and analog models—I’ve tested both.

Conclusion: : I think the GoLF is great and am already looking forward to more models. And, of course, to its direct competitor, the Manta. If Carrerathey were to release the wide Ford Capri RS or the Ford Escort BDA now, the ’80s disco troika would be perfect!
CoMod Lotus