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Volkswagen

Volkswagen - Golf (2002)

Step into the world of the all‑season, all‑day comfort that is the Volkswagen Golf, a name that has become synonymous with European compact cars since its debut in the mid‑1970s. Whether you’re dreaming of a fresh boast of a 2002 model or hitting the market for a used Volkswagen Golf price guide, the fundamentals that define this stalwart of practicality remain the same: a balanced chassis, precise handling, and a legacy of reliability. Below, we dive into the key specs that make the Golf a perennial favourite, followed by a realistic look at its Volkswagen Golf depreciation curve, a comparison to its contemporaries, and why it continues to hold its ground in the competitive subcompact segment.

  • Engine: Typically found in the 1.8‑liter and 1.4‑liter TSI turbocharged units, offering 132-170 horsepower, or the naturally aspirated 1.6‑liter 114 hp, depending on the era and market.
  • Transmission: Options range from a 5‑speed manual to a 7‑speed DSG dual‑clutch system, with the older 2002 models largely featuring manual gearboxes for a classic driving experience.
  • Fuel Type: Regular gasoline is standard; the TSI variants often incorporate advanced direct‑fuel injection for improved efficiency.
  • Dimensions (approx.):
    • Length: 4,029 mm
    • Width: 1,717 mm
    • Height: 1,470 mm
    • Wheelbase: 2,605 mm
  • Weight: Ranges from 1,040 kg for the 1.4‑liter models to 1,220 kg for the larger 1.8‑liter variants.
  • Interior & Features: Seating for four, standard rear‑seat ventilation, optional panoramic sunroof, dual‑zone climate control, and a modern infotainment system with smartphone integration.

Depreciation Insight

The Volkswagen Golf depreciation curve follows a fairly standard pattern for compact cars that touch both the “German build quality” stamp and affordability:

  • Initially: Typically loses 15-20% of its value in the first year after purchase, as new model releases begin to compete.
  • Year‑1 to Year‑2: The rate tapers to about 20-25% cumulative depreciation, especially for well‑maintained vehicles with low mileage.
  • Year‑3 to Year‑5: Depreciation decreases further, settling around 10-15% per year as the vehicle matures into a “genuinely used” status.
  • Long‑term (Year‑5+): Slower erosion of value, often 5-7% per year, depending on market trends and vehicle condition.

These percentages are approximate and can vary by market, mileage, and service history, so when assessing a used Volkswagen Golf price you’ll want to consider condition, maintenance records, and regional demand.

What Is a 2002 Volkswagen Golf Worth?

Curious about the Volkswagen Golf 2002 price? While the exact figure is contingent upon factors such as mileage, trim, and regional mileage standards, it’s helpful to know that the 2002 Golf typically falls into the lower price points for used compacts. Prospective buyers usually see listings around the $5,000–$7,000 range in North America, $3,500–$5,000 in European markets, and $2,000–$4,000 in areas with higher depreciation rates. Remember, however, that “price” can vary widely—whichever region you’re in, the condition of the vehicle will heavily influence its current worth.

Comparison to Similar Models

Compared to similar models in its segment, the Golf usually positions itself as a premium choice within the subcompact and super‑compact categories. For instance: