1981 Volkswagen Rabbit GTi Cabriolet Auto LHD
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Highlights
- Rare spec with air-conditioning
- Low mileage
- Californian car, garaged stored
- Just 3 owners from new
The Appeal
The Rabbit (the US name for the Golf) was very popular Stateside, especially in convertible trim. With smart design and pokey engines to accompany that open-top style, they remain a popular classic today.
This example is presented in very original condition, having been carefully garaged through its life and clearly benefiting from the dry Californian climate. With low mileage and a rare specification, it’s a perfect usable daily classic.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered 15 December 1981 (1982 model year)
- German built for the US market
- 2x owners in California
- Imported to the UK in 2019 by the current owner
- Part independent service history
- Vendor tells us it has never been restored
- Garaged all its life
- Private registration included in the sale
- US title and numberplate included
- Original handbook and service book
- Current V5c present and correct
The Interior
- Black vinyl upholstery presented in fine condition
- Rare factory-fitted air-conditioning
- Opening front quarter windows
- Period Blaupunkt Kingston R24 radio/cassette
- Black carpets in reasonable condition
- Trim appears in good order – one missing blanking plate in dash and some broken vanes in central air vent
- Vendor tells us that everything works as it should
The Exterior
- Mars Red (LA3A) paintwork
- No evidence of notable corrosion
- Paint in good order, some chips, blemishes and scuffs
- Dent to driver’s door and wing
- Black fabric hood and matching tonneau cover
- Headlining stained and some splits in the roof fabric
- OEM diamond cut Snowflake 14” alloys (recently laser restored)
- Pirelli Cinturato P1 tyres with good tread
- US specification bumpers and side repeaters
- Very solid underneath, with no signs of corrosion or damage
The Mechanics
- 1,781cc fuel-injected 4-cylinder
- 3-speed automatic transmission
- Very clean engine bay
- No evidence of leaks or overheating
- During current ownership: new timing belt, new fuel tank, new fuel pump
- Owner assures us it drives, handles and brakes very well, with no mechanical issues
Summary
All Mk1 Golf GTIs (or, in this case, Rabbits) are desirable. The fact that this is a Californian import and has therefore escaped the ravages of North European weather is a massive feather in its cap. Add to that the low mileage, rare specification and the fact that it is presented in very original and unmodified condition, and you have something that’s really very desirable.
Whether you’re a VW collector or simply after an interesting and usable classic, this rare and charming little cabriolet would be a perfect addition to your fleet.
Notice to bidders
All items in this listing are sold on an “As Is - Where Is” basis. Photos and listing descriptions should be used as a guide only. Although every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of the information in this listing and Car & Classic performs a level of due diligence prior to the auction, we do not warrant the accuracy of the listings. The seller assumes all responsibility for this listing. Inspection is highly recommended prior to bidding. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion.
Please take care when making a bid as once your bid is placed, it cannot be withdrawn and will not be cancelled. If you are unsure do not bid as no refunds will be given.
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Vehicle specification
- Year 1981
- Make Volkswagen
- Model Golf GTi Cabriolet Auto LHD
- Colour Red
- Odometer 78,193 Miles
- Engine size 1781
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Goring-by-Sea
- Location Sussex
- Country United Kingdom
16
bids
- Mo•••• £5,800 29/09/22
- Me•••• £5,700 29/09/22
- Mo•••• £5,600 29/09/22
- Me•••• £5,500 29/09/22
- Mo•••• £5,400 29/09/22
- Me•••• £5,300 29/09/22
- Mo•••• £5,200 27/09/22
- ar•••• £5,100 27/09/22
- Mo•••• £5,000 26/09/22
- Mo•••• £3,500 26/09/22
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|---|---|
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