1982 Volkswagen Golf GTI Cabriolet 1.6 For Sale By Auction

Highlights

Significantly rarer than the 1.8L version: estimated production of only 10,000 1.6-litre units worldwide compared to over 130,000 units for the 1.8L
New convertible roof material
Rare original BBS alloy wheels
Retains all original GTI features, including quad headlights and iconic badging
Dry stored with a new convertible roof material

The Appeal

Volkswagen launched the Karmann-built Golf Cabriolet in 1979, and thankfully, a GTI version was also available for petrolheads like us to enjoy so open-topped hot hatch fun. This 1982 example is the rare 1.6-litre version, and it's in very good condition for its age.

You'll note that this Golf is right-hand drive. That's because it was originally a UK-market car that was imported to Cyprus in 2007. Since then, it's undergone a great deal of work and has clearly benefitted from the dry climate.

The vendor adds:

"The car was originally registered in the UK, and while we’re not certain if it still retains its UK number plates, full documentation is available for verification with authorities.

This allows UK buyers to explore VAT and import fee exemptions. It’s ideal for UK buyers seeking classic German engineering combined with open-top driving enjoyment and potential import cost savings."

History and Paperwork

88,356 miles indicated
UK market RHD example with an MPH speedometer/odometer
Originally registered in the UK; the vendor is uncertain if it still retains UK number plates
Full documentation available for verification with authorities, allowing UK buyers to explore VAT and import fee exemptions
UK imported and registered in Cyprus in 2007
Complete with Cyprus technical inspection
Unknown number of previous registered keepers
Full service recently completed

The vendor notes:

"This rare 1982 Volkswagen Golf Mk1 GTI Cabriolet features the highly collectable 1.6L EG engine, which is increasingly valued over the later 1.8L GTI models. With an estimated production of only 10,000 units for the 1.6L GTI Cabriolet worldwide compared to over 130,000 units for the 1.8L, this model holds exceptional appeal for collectors"

The Condition

New folding roof fabric
We're informed that the roof mechanism operates well
Retains all original GTI features, including quad headlights and iconic badging
Original rare BBS rims
The vendor assures us that the Golf is corrosion-free underneath and remains very sound elsewhere too
Bodywork reportedly resprayed three years ago and dry-stored since
It looks a straight and solid example with good door fit
There is a small paint bubble on the driver's door and we note a slight dent in the passenger door
Seats are not the original fabric but are generally in very good condition
Smart upholstery and controls
We're not informed of any known issues with the cabin electrics

The Mechanics

1.6-litre four-cylinder GTI engine
Five-speed manual gearbox
Stiffer suspension setup than non-GTI models
No advisories on the current technical inspection according to the vendor
The vendor informs us that the Golf is brilliant to drive
We're not informed of any known mechanical issues

Recent full service including:

New water pump
Timing belt
New engine mounts
New top mounts

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..