How about the Mk1 Golf Gti? That car brought performance cars to the masses.
I owned a MK2 and I always resented the Golf when everyone referred to it as being the 'first' hot hatch. I always saw the Alfasud as having claim on that title (although it wasn't a hatch until later in its life-time), but perhaps the Vauxhall Chevette 2300 or Lotus Sunbeam have even more right to be considered 'first'. (note to self: need to check back at my old Autocar and Motor mags)
