Hot on the heels of the turbo Golf Rallye, this R32 Turbo popped up on eBay. Â I love the R32, so much so that it’s at the top of my realistic dream-car list. Â The looks are aggressive yet subtle, the AWD makes it a 4-season monster, and it’s got some juice from the 3.2l VR6. Â It’s probably the most well-done car from VW in decades, though the new GTI portends good things are coming. Â The one gripe that has followed the R32 is a lack of power, and while 240hp in a Golf sounds pretty good, it’s not fast, especially when compared to its 4WD contemporaries, the Subaru STI and the Mitsubishi Evo. Â This seller has addressed that issue and more with an EIP turbo setup along and a host of driveline and suspension additions.
The seller’s list of upgrades:
Engine / Power:
-Original 3.2L 240hp Engine, All Accessories Retained (A/C, Power-Everything, Upgraded Bosch T-Stat, Sensors, Fan-Switch and FPR, All Original Covers, Including Retention of Emissions Components, Factory Installed Appearance)
-EIP Stage-1 Turbo System with All Comp Series Upgrades (AWD Dyno Tested/Tuned 425hp)
-Comp Series (Dual-Core) Front Mount Intercooler (stock like fitment)
-Clear-Coated Silver Turbo Piping (very easy to clean, stays bright, looks like stock)
-Ball Bearing Turbocharger Upgrade
-Turbosmart Billet External Ultra-Gate Wastegate
-Greddy Diverter/Blow-Off Valve (Re-circulated)
-Apexi AVC-R Digital Boost Controller (Glove-Box Mounted)
-3†Stainless Steel Downpipe w/Integrated Wastegate Return
-3†Stainless Steel High Flow Catalytic Converter
-3†Stainless Steel EIP Exhaust w/Resonator (deep mellow tone)
Transmission / Driveline:
-Fidanza Billet Aluminum Lightweight Flywheel (fast throttle response)
-EIP Comp Series Dual-Friction Clutch (stock-like pedal feel, 500+ HP setup)
-Quaife Torque Biasing All Wheel Drive Differential
-Haldex Performance Rear Wheel Drive Controller
-EIP Short Shifter (Front-to-Back and Side-to-Side)
-Brembo 15†Racing Brakes w/Porsche 4-Piston Calipers and Slotted Rotors
-Neuspeed Billet 18†Wheels
-Kuhmo Excsta MX 225/40/18 ZR Tires (new)
-Bilstein Fully Adjustable Coil-Over Suspension (Twin-Springs, Externally Adjustable)
-Autotech Front and Rear Lightweight Sway-Bars w/Urethane Bushings
-Autotech Aluminum Upper Stress Bar
There shouldn’t be any more griping with 425hp on tap. Â The modifications seem comprehensive without (thankfully) turning it into a track-only car. Â Even the large stereo system fits well, tucked in nicely without the horrible trunk-eclipsing fiberglass enclosures. Â Remove the vinyl and swap some more subtle rims and this is very nearly my ideal car. Â With only 30k miles and the reserve off at around $20k, this hot VW is a hot deal.
-NR
Since we’re on the topic of Mk IV Golfs, I had a MY 2000 Mk IV GTI that I bought brand new (2.0 liter engine, 5 speed). The car was assembled in Wolfsburg and was the absolute biggest piece of crap I’ve ever owned. While the engine and transmission were inherently strong, the electrics and trim items on the car were horrendous. Just thinking about a part on that car would make it break.
I was so annoyed after all the trips to the dealer that I sent a letter to Volkswagen of America and promptly traded the thing in one day after the warranty expired. I have NEVER traded a car in, that’s how bad I wanted out. I bought a certified pre-owned C class and never looked back since. In the end, I was sorry I sold my ’98 Mk III GTI I owned before it. I might as well have bought a vintage Alfa Romeo with Spica fuel injection. It would have given me less headaches.
Just wanted to give you a heads up, Nate, in case you ever come close to owning one. Beware…
Is the VW R32 still for sale?
is this car still for sale and where is it located