Volkswagen is planning to build a sporty two-seater based on the new Golf 5 and sources say that the company may show a concept of this roadster at next month's Frankfurt Motor Show.

If Volkswagen unveils the roadster concept car at the Frankfurt Motor Show it will probably be named the "Concept R".

It is expected to go into production within the next two years.

This sensational two-seater will share design cues and underpinning with the new Golf and its main rivals will be the Mazda MX-5, Toyota MR2 and Opel Speedster.

The car will get a powerful 152 bhp 16-valve engine, which will develop 148 lb.ft of torque. It will accelerate from 0-60 mph in about six seconds and top speed will be 150 mph.

VW will equip the car with a host of safety features that will include ABS, ESP and a number of airbags.

The Car Enthusiast will be travelling to the 2003 Frankfurt Show in September so look out for our review linked from the main Motor Shows page.

Wheels24 - 26 Aug 2003