Volkswagen Gol Mk3
The long-running champion of the Brazilian market and a South American icon.
- Power
- 97 bhp
- Top speed
- 114 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$5k
About the Volkswagen Gol Mk3
The third-generation Volkswagen Gol, known internally as the G3, was a significant evolution of Brazil's best-selling car, featuring a much-improved interior and a smoother exterior design. Despite being marketed as a new generation, it sat on the same 'BX' platform as its predecessor, utilizing a longitudinal engine layout which was unusual for a small hatchback of this era. The 1.6-litre Total Flex version was a pioneer in the region, capable of running on any mixture of petrol and ethanol. It remains a staple of South American roads, valued for its mechanical simplicity, durability, and low maintenance costs.
Volkswagen Gol Mk3 specs
The Volkswagen Gol Mk3 produces 97 bhp (72 kW) and 138 Nm (102 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 114 mph (184 km/h).
| Make | Volkswagen |
|---|---|
| Model | Gol |
| Generation | Mk3 |
| Trim | 1.6 |
| Years | 1999–2008 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 97 bhp (72 kW) at 5,750 rpm |
| Torque | 138 Nm (102 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,200 rpm |
| Top speed | 114 mph (184 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 980 kg (2,161 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 99 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Volkswagen Gol Mk3 worth?
A typical Volkswagen Gol Mk3 is estimated to be worth $2,000 – $5,000 (about £1,500 – £3,700).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Volkswagen Gol Mk3 rarity in CarSpot
The Volkswagen Gol Mk3 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Volkswagen Gol Mk3 fun facts
- The Volkswagen Gol was the best-selling car in Brazil for 27 consecutive years, from 1987 to 2014.
- The 'Total Flex' engine introduced in 2003 made the Gol the first genuine flexible-fuel vehicle produced and sold in the Brazilian market.
- Unlike the European Polo, the Gol used a longitudinal engine mounting, a layout inherited from the original 1980 model which was loosely based on the Audi 80.