2002 Volkswagen GTI 337 Edition - Going, Going, Gone
At the New York International Auto Show in April 2002 Volkswagen unveiled something that caused a stir among driving enthusiasts across the continent. A new performance-oriented edition of the ever popular GTI with tasteful aero add-ons, racy sport seats and big rims made it appear fit for the race track.
The new edition arrived in dealerships last summer but nonetheless it took me until 2003 to drive one, more due to my disorganization than to any lack of trying from VW. The wait, as you may have guessed, was worth it as the new GTI 337 Edition is truly special. My only regret is that by now those who like what they hear will need to make a mad dash to the nearest Volkswagen dealer to see if any are even left - it's a limited edition 2002 car kept to 1,500 units only. With that in mind sorry for my tardiness.
Apologies aside the new GTI 337 offers much of the hardware import fans dress their cars up with once they get bored with the stock parts. The only problem with aftermarket stuff is that it doesn't always improve performance, especially wheel and tire packages that aren't specifically designed with the model in mind. This is not a problem with the 337.
The limited edition model comes with four sensational BBS RC Kreuzspeiche 18-inch alloy wheels that frame bright red brake calipers, very racy and especially chosen by the engineers that developed the chassis. Also selected by VW's suspension gurus are a set of 225/40ZR-18 summer performance tires that produce relentless grip on dry surfaces. The 337 sports a deeper front spoiler as well, plus a lower rear valance and matching side skirts. There's also a rear spoiler above the hatch glass and distinct darkened taillights. Its polished stainless steel exhaust tip compliments the model's only color, Reflex Silver, perfectly.