The Mk4 GTI, launched in Europe in 1997 and North America for the 1999 model year, arrived with sleek, rounded bodywork and a level of interior sophistication that nudged it closer to Audi territory.

While sliding around the course at the Ice Race GP in Zell, Austria, the eR1 made absolutely no noise but looked very purposeful sporting a full TCR-spec body kit as well as a roll-cage inside.