`Roc of ages

The Giugiaro penned car was based on the Golf back then also and proved to be a hit with buyers, which was rather unexpected. But the fact that Volkswagen was struggling to leave behind its air-cooled car days and the Scirocco had a proven 1500cc (with 70 or 80 bhp) water-cooled unit (tried out earlier in the Audi 80) made its popularity timely and hugely important. Between the sales and its wedgy good looks, the Scirocco became a cherished icon in VW history.

 

From the original car in 1974, we've come a long way. When VW showed the delicious IROC concept at the Paris Motor Show in 2006, many shrewd enthusiasts cottoned on to the fact that this could be the return of the Scirocco. And what a great looking car it turned out to be in production, wowing showgoers and the rest of world when it was unveiled at Geneva in March this year.

The Scirocco is roughly the same size as the Golf it is based on, but lower and much, much sportier. Four engines are on offer at the moment: 122, 160 and 200 bhp petrols with direct (petrol) injection and a common rail diesel good for 140 bhp.

A seven-speed DSG shifter and clever chassis control electronics are meant to wow the drivers. The system can adapt the suspension and steering to support loafing about as well as hustling, producing a car that would corner like a racecar and ride like a boulevard cruiser when needed.

The GT24 version of the Scirocco, on the other hand, is supposed to be a racer for the road and will take part in endurance events. The look is mean and ultra-low slung with a gigantic rear spoiler there to help downforce and any stragglers who still don't get it. The narrow headlamps give it a look of focus and concentration and that all-important aggression.

And concentration you will need, for the GT24 was shown with a 321 bhp 2000cc turbo motor, still front-wheel drive and wearing the hailed six-speed DSG gearbox. The racecar is wider and longer and obviously, significantly lower than the street car. Volkswagen hopes to recreate the dream car aura that surrounded the original Scirocco (and helped sell 360,000 units!) and a few race wins will help no end.

At the debut event at the Nurburgring, Hans Joachim Stuck and WRC champ Carlos Sainz will be at the wheel, so the competition better watch out.