Description
1980/ 81 Volkswagen Golf Mk1 Cabriolet GLI – OPH 835W
Rare early Karmann-built 1. 6 GLI drop-top in metallic blue – 89, 223 miles – £9, 995
For sale is a genuine early Mk1 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet GLI, first registered in the UK on the OPH 835W plate (1980/ 81 model year). This is the desirable fuel-injected 1. 6-litre version (1588cc, Bosch K-Jetronic), producing approximately 110 PS – the open-top sibling to the iconic Golf GTI. Built by Karmann in Germany with strengthened body and the signature roll-over bar.
Key Specifications
Engine: 1. 6-litre (1600cc) inline-4 petrol, fuel-injected
Mileage: 89, 223 miles
Colour: Metallic blue with black soft top
Tax & MOT exempt (classic vehicle status)
4 seats, manual transmission
Exterior
Classic Mk1 Cabriolet styling with sharp Giugiaro lines, round headlights, period VW alloys, and the distinctive C-pillar. The metallic blue paint and black fabric soft top give it real 1980s character. The car shows honest patina from its 45 years – some surface marks, weathering, and storage dust visible on the bonnet and panels, exactly as pictured.
Interior
Original black/ grey cabin with supportive front seats and rear bench. Simple analogue dashboard with clear instruments – pure, functional Mk1 feel.
Mechanical Overview
The responsive 1. 6 GLI engine delivers lively performance with that classic eager rev. At 89k miles it still has plenty of potential with proper care. These cars are mechanically straightforward with excellent parts support.
Condition & Honesty
This is a used classic with genuine patina, not a concours restoration. It has signs of age and outdoor storage: surface rust/ patina on panels, paint weathering, and general marks. The soft top and seals may need future attention, as is typical for Mk1 Cabriolets. The car appears to have been sitting recently, so a full inspection is recommended – check fuel system, brakes, hoses, electrics, and suspension before regular use.
Common points for any example this age: soft top mechanism, K-Jetronic injection servicing, rubber components, and body seams.
Why you’ll love it
Pure open-top fun with nimble handling, wind-in-your-hair enjoyment, and real GTI spirit in convertible form. These early Karmann Cabriolets are becoming rarer and more appreciated. Ideal as a summer cruiser, weekend toy, or rolling restoration project. Tax and MOT exempt makes ownership even more straightforward.
Selling due to no space to store it any longer. Priced at £9, 995 for a quick sale to an enthusiast happy to enjoy or improve it.
Viewing strongly recommended – car is exactly as shown. Serious enquiries only. Collection from [your location]. Please ask any questions or request more photos/ videos. 1980/ 81 Volkswagen Golf Mk1 Cabriolet GLI – OPH 835W
Rare early Karmann-built 1. 6 GLI drop-top in metallic blue – 89, 223 miles – £9, 995
For sale is a genuine early Mk1 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet GLI, first registered in the UK on the OPH 835W plate (1980/ 81 model year). This is the desirable fuel-injected 1. 6-litre version (1588cc, Bosch K-Jetronic), producing approximately 110 PS – the open-top sibling to the iconic Golf GTI. Built by Karmann in Germany with strengthened body and the signature roll-over bar.
Key Specifications
Engine: 1. 6-litre (1600cc) inline-4 petrol, fuel-injected
Mileage: 89, 223 miles
Colour: Metallic blue with black soft top
Tax & MOT exempt (classic vehicle status)
4 seats, manual transmission
Exterior
Classic Mk1 Cabriolet styling with sharp Giugiaro lines, round headlights, period VW alloys, and the distinctive C-pillar. The metallic blue paint and black fabric soft top give it real 1980s character. The car shows honest patina from its 45 years – some surface marks, weathering, and storage dust visible on the bonnet and panels, exactly as pictured.
Interior
Original black/ grey cabin with supportive front seats and rear bench. Simple analogue dashboard with clear instruments – pure, functional Mk1 feel.
Mechanical Overview
The responsive 1. 6 GLI engine delivers lively performance with that classic eager rev. At 89k miles it still has plenty of potential with proper care. These cars are mechanically straightforward with excellent parts support.
Condition & Honesty
This is a used classic with genuine patina, not a concours restoration. It has signs of age and outdoor storage: surface rust/ patina on panels, paint weathering, and general marks. The soft top and seals may need future attention, as is typical for Mk1 Cabriolets. The car appears to have been sitting recently, so a full inspection is recommended – check fuel system, brakes, hoses, electrics, and suspension before regular use.
Common points for any example this age: soft top mechanism, K-Jetronic injection servicing, rubber components, and body seams.
Why you’ll love it
Pure open-top fun with nimble handling, wind-in-your-hair enjoyment, and real GTI spirit in convertible form. These early Karmann Cabriolets are becoming rarer and more appreciated. Ideal as a summer cruiser, weekend toy, or rolling restoration project. Tax and MOT exempt makes ownership even more straightforward.
Selling due to no space to store it any longer. Priced at £9, 995 for a quick sale to an enthusiast happy to enjoy or improve it.
Viewing strongly recommended – car is exactly as shown. Serious enquiries only. Collection from [your location]. Please ask any questions or request more photos/ videos.
