Description
1991 Volkswagen Golf GTI Rivage
Registration Number: J506 OPL
Chassis Number: WVW22215MK031412
Recorded Mileage: 115, 977 miles
- Karmann-built Cabriolet with original specification throughout
- Offered with comprehensive history file
The Golf Cabriolet was produced for Volkswagen by Karmann of Osnabrück, whose expertise in open-top construction had already been demonstrated through a long association with Volkswagen. Based upon the enduring Mk1 Golf platform, the Cabriolet combined the Golf's practical engineering with a reinforced bodyshell and fully lined convertible hood, becoming one of Europe's most successful small convertibles.
By 1991 the long-running Cabriolet was entering its final years, and Volkswagen introduced the Rivage as one of its most highly specified run-out editions. Sold exclusively in the UK, the Rivage was essentially the British-market equivalent of the Continental Classicline and was offered in both standard and leather forms. Production was limited, with only 470 UK Rivages recorded in period sources, comprising 218 cloth cars and just 252 Rivage Leather examples.
The GTI Rivage was distinguished by its specific colour and trim combinations, 15-inch Le Castellet forged alloy wheels, electric mohair hood, heated front seats and colour-coded exterior detailing. The leather cars were particularly well appointed, combining beige leather upholstery with the distinctive Indigo Blue hood when finished in Classic Blue Pearl. The 1. 8-litre fuel-injected engine and five-speed manual transmission retained the lively and straightforward character of the GTI, while the Karmann-built Cabriolet provided a more relaxed interpretation of the familiar Golf formula.
This 1991 example is finished in the characteristic Classic Blue Pearl, complemented by the desirable beige leather interior and Indigo Blue fabric hood. The colour combination is particularly evocative of the Rivage and remains one of the defining visual characteristics of the model.
The interior is presented in lovely overall condition, while the electric soft top functions smoothly and swiftly.. The original alloy polished alloy wheels are in good order and the car remains in its original specification throughout.
Now showing 115, 977 miles, the Volkswagen is accompanied by a substantial history file and is presented as a very nicely maintained and preserved example. Its rarity, Karmann construction and highly specific Rivage specification make it an increasingly appealing example of the final chapter in the long-running Mk1 Golf Cabriolet story.
The Rivage was conceived as the swansong to the original Golf Cabriolet, today its limited production and distinctive specification have given it an increasingly strong following. This handsome example retains the characterful combination of classic Volkswagen engineering, Karmann coachwork and understated 1990s open-air style that made the Rivage such a fitting conclusion to this model's remarkably long production life.
Coming to auction with Dore & Rees Motoring at Castle Combe on 12th September.
Details of this vehicle and others featuring in the Castle Combe Autumn Classic Auction will be available very soon. Visit the Dore & Rees Motoring website for full details.
