GT5 Transcripts/Volkswagen Lupo

The smallest model available in Volkswagen's lineup, the Lupo first appeared in 1998.

Because the Polo, previously the smallest passenger car in VW's lineup, had physically grown over the years, Volkswagen needed another car to slate beneath the Polo. The Lupo was introduced to fill that role.

With an overall length of just 138.8 inches, the Lupo is small, but its excellent craftsmanship and price point put it on par with cars costing much more. Engine configurations in its home country varied greatly, starting with a small 1.0 liter gasoline power plant to variety of turbocharged diesels, including one model that could travel up to 100 km on just three liters (0.79 gallons) of fuel. Other engine options included a 1.4 liter DOHC inline-4 gasoline engine available with a power output of either 74 HP or 99 HP.

The most commonly available transmission for this engine was a 5-speed manual transmission, but a 4-speed automatic unit was available on the 74 HP model in Japan. Although the Lupo was never deemed sporty, its wide variety of perky power plants and excellent steering feel made it a fun car to drive. For proof, just ask the drivers who compete in the Lupo Cup, a one-make racing series that features this small Volkswagen sedan.