Syncro Westies are a special breed, but today’s Vanagon is cut from an interesting cloth – or lack thereof. While most Westfalias’ tops popped up with a cloth tent, later models like this example could be had with a plastic high-top. What is lost in aerodynamics is gained in weatherproofness, creating a cozy loft and more mounting space for the rack-loving van crowd. While the top sticks out, the overall aesthetics are upgraded but pleasantly subtle, with upsized steel wheels, the great South African grille/light combo and tough bumpers blending into the colorless white/black scheme. The more I look at it, the more I love this van, and we haven’t even gotten to the mechanicals! Those are as good as they get, with an upgraded turbodiesel and Syncro four-wheel drive. No reserve will make this a fun auction to watch, though the low mileage and strong option and upgrade lists will probably take it out of most people’s price range.
Click for details: 1989 Volkswagen Vanagon Westfalia Syncro on eBay
Year: 1989
Model: Vanagon Westfalia Syncro
Engine: 1.6 liter turbocharged inline-4 diesel
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 43,279 mi
Price: No reserve auction
NO RESERVE. Highest bidder takes this van.
1989 Vanagon SYNCRO DIESEL Westfalia HighTop FULL CAMPER. Only 43,000 documented miles. Excellent condition. No rust anywhere. Lots of upgrades.
Coveted Club Joker model with Every Option.
Factory 1.6 liter Turbo Diesel
BIG TURBO + INTERCOOLER = Lots of POWER!!!
5-Speed Manual with Low Range Gear
Central and Rear Locking Diffs
Big Brake Kit
Front Skid Plate
Engine Skid Plate
Lift Kit
Upgraded Shocks
Front and Rear Push Bumpers
Tire Carrier with Diesel Jerry Can
South African Grille and Lights
Hella Driving Lights on a Bull Bar
Full Kitchen with Refrigerator, Sink, and Stove.
Awning
Full Set of Curtains
Mosquito Net
Rear Heater with programmable timer
Auxiliary Coach Battery
Lots of Room Inside
Comfort Seats
And a whole lot more.
Just serviced and ready for the new adventures
Runs, Drives, and Looks Excellent.
Fresh Alignment
Needs just a few very minor finishing touches such as a new modern radio and a 110V Power distribution to suit new owners needs.
Free and Clear NJ Title in hand.
No accidents, no rust.
Rustproofed and Undercoated since day one.
Always garaged. Inspected, Maintained, and Serviced as needed with an open wallet after every outing and/or at slightest hint of anything needing attention.
Ready for new adventures indeed. As unique as the hightop is the long list of upgrades without countless GoWesty namedrops, but there’s no question that this van is worth as much as their best. If you’re in rainier climes, this is the Westy to have. Indeed, this is pretty much the best kind of Vanagon to have anywhere. Bidding is hot and heavy, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see this van go over $50k – perhaps even higher. Some will balk but many will covet (author included), and in the end someone is going to be very happy with their new Vanagon.
-NR
Who would have thought that 25 years later this ridiculous looking top is the only kind Westfalia even does anymore…and mostly on Fords and Sprinter vans. No more iconic pop tops, but one less fabric to get mildewy in periods of non-use.