2004 Volkswagen R32

The new Golf R is a force to be reckoned with, making the first appreciable increase in power since these MkIV R32s brought 4WD performance and the R moniker to the VW Golf lineup. While the new 2.0 liter turbo four may produce a lot more power, the open-flapped exhaust on these 3.2 liter VR6s will still turn more heads. Having covered just over 40k miles means this is one of the best examples on the market, so the seller is going big and asking for $20k. Yes, that’s well on its way to a new GTI or slightly used Golf R, but I’ll always have a soft spot for the original R32.

Click for details: 2004 Volkswagen R32 on eBay

Year: 2004
Model: R32
Engine: 3.2 liter VR6
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage: 42,737 mi
Price: $20,000 Buy It Now

Used and in perfect conditions. This well kept example is sitting on 18″ BBS CK wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport A/S tires, also comes with extra set of ASA wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Blizzak snow tires. Vehicle is lowered on Bilstein coilover with fully adjustable camber arm and toe link in the rear. Rear sway bar has been upgraded with adjustable unit with end links to match. Also comes with DLI Technik motor mounts, EVOM intake, Milltek exhaust, short shifter, Optima yellow top battery, and aluminum skid plate for added protection. Also comes with interior LED lighting, euro spec side mirrors that reduces blind spot.

Some thoughtful little bolt-ons seem well-chosen without hurting the low-mileage/original factor. The BBS CKs aren’t my favorite, but I do appreciate a winter wheel/tire set to fully exploit the Haldex AWD system. 11 years on, these are still an awesome performance hatchback, it’s just a matter of determining if nostalgic desires outweigh pragmatism in the days of great hot hatches. Even with a strong love of VWs, could you reasonably spend $20k on a sweet original R32 over the myriad Ford STs, used STIs and Cooper S options out there?

-NR