The Volkswagen Golf GTI model is known for many sporting features, but one of the most specific details of it is the speed – changing lever whose peak looks like a golf ball.

This idea became a distinctive element of the design of the German sports model since 1976.

At first glance, the link between a car and golf sport may seem random. The name Volkswagen Golf, in fact, is usually linked to the Plain of Golf rather than to the sport. The German manufacturer, however, did not want to miss out on the opportunity to use this interesting compensation.

Instead of a common, round – pointed levee, Volkswagen decided to use a pit design similar to those that characterize the surface of the golf ball. Thus, a small detail became part of the identity of the Golf GTI model.

The story of this idea relates to Gunchild Liljequist, an internal design specialist who worked for Volkswagen at the time. The idea came about spontaneously while thinking of elements that could link the car’s inner appearance to the sport.

What if the speed change lever was a golf ball?

The idea was approved by Herbert Schäfer, Volkswagen’s chief designer in the period when Golf GTI was creating his identity. Schäfer was also a golfer, who made the proposal even more appropriate.

Golf GTI was introduced for the first time in 1976 and became one of the world’s best – known sports cars. In addition to performance, the model was noted for the characteristic internal elements, including the sport seats with the cadrate stub and the transfer of golf ball speeds.

What began as a spontaneous idea of design became a symbol of Golf GTI, proving that even a small detail can give a particular character. /Telegraphy/