Highlights

Excellent runner, mechanically sound and very clean engine bay
One of a reported 470 Rivage models
Great condition original interior and exterior
Driven less than 4,500 miles in the past 16 years

The Appeal

The Mk1 Golf, a hugely popular success for Volkswagen, was initially conceived in 1974. In 1980, VW launched their cabriolet option, with soft-top produced with the help of German coachbuilders Karmann. In production until 1993 and overlapping the switch over of the hardtop Golfs from Mk1 to Mk2 and Mk3, this cabriolet is a bit special. The Rivage edition with its Classic Blue Metallic paint, Mauritius Blue cloth interior, and hydraulically operated Indigo Blue soft-top also featured the moulded bumpers, integrated front and rear spoilers and wheel arch extensions of the late-model Cabriolets.

This particular car, just one of a reported 470 Rivages delivered, and being one from the final production year of the Mk1 Cabriolet, is in absolutely incredible condition for its age. With a solid service history from the dealership up until 2008, it has seen less than 3,000 miles since it’s last documented dealership service, and private maintenance under the current ownership since. With the vehicle not seeing as much use as it could, the current owner is ready to pass it on to its next loving keeper to enjoy.

The History and Paperwork

V5c present and current
MOT valid until 19th April 2024 with no advisories
Receipts present for most previous work performed up to 2008
All original with exception of below:
- Clifford alarm system installed
- Central locking system installed
Current owner states under their care it has been maintained and kept up privately, without invoice record
Vehicle has been dry stored

The Interior

Interior is in truly excellent overall condition, with very little wear and signs of use present
Owner states electronics working as they should, with the exception of the below:
The ‘Multi-function Indicator’ on the dashboard displays LCD digits but is not functioning correctly
Stereo head unit present but not working
Front seats in great condition, with only very slight fading on the seat bottoms
Rear seats in like-new condition
Carpets in overall great condition for the age
Dashboard in great shape, with no cracking or fading seen
Gauges and buttons in great visual condition, and owner states all functioning correctly
Steering wheel in great condition with no signs of sun damage or marks
Headlining in clean condition with no sagging or unusual marking
Soft top mechanics in excellent condition, push-button hydraulic operation is smooth and effortless
Boot in immaculate condition, no signs of corrosion on metalwork, no tears in carpet, and spare tire and jack present

The Exterior

Overall straight and extremely well-kept exterior
metallic paintwork deep and glossy
Trim and bumpers in excellent condition, fitting perfect
Some chips and small marks from the road as photographed
Area of bubbling above driver’s side skirt by the door opening as pictured
Glass in excellent condition with only very small marks to be expected for the age
Rubbers and seals in above average condition, dark black and very little discolouration from the age; no reports of leaking from current owner
Headlight lenses in great bright condition with only minor signs of sun fading, driver’s side shows some corrosion inside
Fog lights in front show some signs of fogginess from age
Rear lights in very good condition with no signs of fading or fogging
Tires in great condition with plenty of tread left
Original wheels in excellent condition, but some light scratches seen when up close
Underside in overall better than expected condition for the age, with some surface corrosion present as pictured but not affecting structural elements

The Mechanics

Engine bay is in above average condition for the age, only some small areas of surface corrosion seen on fan shroud and radiator mounting brackets
Maintenance up to date, owner states no known issues to be dealt with
Owner states 1.8L engine and transmission runs smoothly and accelerates as it should
Owner states the vehicle stops, starts, shifts, and handles as good or better than expected
Owner states suspension is smooth but sporty
Underside rubbers, boots, and bushings in great shape, ready for more miles
No smoke or strange noises observed, engine sounds healthy

Summary

This stunning final production year Rivage Gti offers a rare opportunity to purchase a true piece of Golf history! With only a couple of small issues to sort as mentioned, you’ve got an excellent and mechanically sound machine just begging to be driven and enjoyed with the top up or down. Just one of a reported 470 cars like it, this swan song for the Mk1 Golf is a rare treat indeed.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.

UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.

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