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Closed Auction- Unsold

1989 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet

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  • Mileage~26,100 on clock
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Engine1.8-litre
  • LocationLondon

AUCTION CLOSED

1989 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet

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Introduction

Dom Ginn
Professional Consignor

Since its inception, the Golf has been regarded as a historic turning point for Volkswagen and remains a highly popular classic to this day.

The successor to the Beetle, the MK1 Golf, debuted in Europe in May 1974. This marked a shift in VW's cars from rear-wheel drive, rear-mounted air-cooled engines to front-mounted water-cooled units with front-wheel drive. The cabriolet version was given a reinforced body, including a transverse roll-over bar on later models like this one, and a high level of trim as standard. From stamping to final assembly, the car was entirely built at the Karmann factory in Osnabrück, Germany.

This particular example is a later "Clipper," featuring body-coloured bumpers, wider wheel arches, and body skirts. Roland has carefully owned this car for the past 13 years, and it benefits from an incredibly low mileage of only ~26,100 miles, with 21 service stamps in its maintenance log. Painted in Helios Blue, this well-preserved, low-mileage example is in the prime of its life and ready to be enjoyed by a new owner.

This listing was written from information supplied by Dom after meeting Roland the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

Undoubtedly a joyous little car, my Mk1 Golf has been an incredible companion throughout my ownership, spanning a rewarding 13 years!

Roland originally purchased his Mk1 Golf Cabriolet in 2010, and over the course of 13 years of ownership, he has truly fallen in love with his sprightly 1.8L Golf. This compact and nimble car has been the perfect fit for life in London - efficient, agile, and cost-effective to run.

When talking to Roland about his car, he expresses deep enjoyment and mentions that he'd gladly keep it for another 13 years if he had the space. However, with limited on-street parking options, Roland has reluctantly decided to part with his cherished Mk1 Golf in favor of another vehicle.

Roland is more than willing to answer any questions you may have about the car in the comment section below.

Roland
Vehicle Owner

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CONTACT OWNER

Exterior

This Mk1 Golf Cabriolet, a sought-after Clipper variant with Helios Blue colour-coded bumpers, adds that extra touch of kerb appeal.

Wheels and Tyres

The Golf's 13-inch wheels are generally in good condition, showing no obvious signs visual damage. However, a light refurbishment is recommended to address minor curb rash and surface corrosion. Nevertheless, these wheels perfectly complement the Helios Blue paintwork and, being the original components, maintain the car's authentic style.

The car is equipped with a complete set of new Hankook tyres, which Roland had installed recently.

Bodywork

The Golf's bodywork is in excellent overall condition, devoid of any significant visible damage to its panels. Additionally, all panel gaps appear straight and properly aligned, showing no signs of misalignment.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The Helios Blue paintwork appears to be in remarkable condition considering the age of the vehicle. There are no major scuffs or scratches visible on any of the panels, and only a few minor chips can be found around the car.

Again, we have taken high resolution images and videos of the car for you to assess the condition of the bodywork for yourselves. The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

All the glass is in excellent condition, with the windscreen free of any chips or scratches, and the side windows showing no signs of damage. Additionally, the convertible hood appears to be in top-notch condition, with no visible rips or tears.

Interior

Featuring grey-toned tartan upholstery, a classic and minimalist interior design, and the enjoyable Cabriolet driving experience, the cabin offers a delightful and inviting environment.

Seats and Carpets

Both the front and rear seats are in remarkable condition considering their age, showing no signs of damage to the seat bases, bolsters, or uprights. While the fabric itself could benefit from a light cleaning to refresh the appearance of the grey material, it is otherwise in good shape.

The carpets in the Golf are consistent with the rest of the interior - free from damage or defects and untouched by the sun. Additionally, floor mats have effectively protected the front footwell carpets from any significant dirt or damage.

Dashboard

The straightforward design of the Mk1 Golf's dashboard pays tribute to the beloved boxy design aesthetic of its era. The dashboard itself is in excellent condition, with no visible damage to any of the plastics. Furthermore, all switchgear is present, correct, and fully operational.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

Thanks to its low mileage, the Golf's steering wheel has experienced minimal wear and tear over the years, and this is evident in its exceptional condition. There are no visible signs of damage or significant wear on the steering wheel, and the same applies to the automatic gear selector.

Mechanics

The lively 1.8L engine can propel you up to 108 MPH, although we believe a more leisurely cruise suits the vehicle's character far better.

Engine and Gearbox

In our cold start video, you can witness the engine starting from a cold state, firing up without hesitation. Initially a bit lumpy when cold, the 1.8L engine revs freely and, once warmed up, idles much more smoothly. In our on-the-road video, the engine performs flawlessly, and the automatic gearbox shifts gears smoothly and as expected.

Suspension and Brakes

Roland has recently replaced the front suspension, brake discs, and brake pads, ensuring that the ride comfort is precisely as expected, and there are no issues with stopping power either.

The Drive

The Mk1 Golf has garnered a dedicated following over the years, earning its status as a beloved classic hatchback.

The Cabriolet model of the Golf encapsulates all the endearing character of the Mk1, coupled with the liberating feeling of leisurely top-down drives. As a perfectly versatile all-rounder, the Mk1 Golf is ideal for suburban life or simply for weekend enjoyment.

Electrics and Other

Equipped with an aftermarket stereo, this is the sole non-standard addition in the cabin or on the car. All lights, as well as all switchgear and dashboard dials, are fully operational.

History and Paperwork

This well maintained, low-mileage Mk1 Golf Cabriolet is the perfect summer car, just waiting to be seized.

Entering the market with just ~26,100 miles on the odometer and a well-documented service history boasting 21 stamps over the past 34 years, this Mk1 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet is in excellent overall condition. It's adorned in a stunning Helios Blue exterior finish and features a grey leatherette convertible roof.

Recently, the car underwent essential maintenance, including work to the suspension and new front brakes, ensuring it's fully prepared for the road. It comes with an up-to-date MOT, valid until 15th August 2024, with no advisories. This delightful classic hatchback is now ready to provide its new owner with many enjoyable miles.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a HPi check on the vehicle.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in high resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
24.07.1990 Service 3,305
09.08.1991 Brake Fluid, Inspection, and Lubrication Service 4,825
21.07.1992 Inspection 5,951
26.07.1993 Inspection & Lubrication Service 6,971
17.04.1994 Inspection & Lubrication Service 7,848
28.07.1995 Inspection & Lubrication Service 9,027
18.07.1996 Brake Fluid, Inspection, and Lubrication Service 9,987
11.07.1997 Inspection & Lubrication Service 11,145
07.07.1998 Brake Fluid, Inspection, and Lubrication Service 12,280
12.07.1999 Inspection & Lubrication Service 13,815
18.07.2000 Inspection & Lubrication Service 15,255
26.07.2001 Brake Fluid, Inspection, and Lubrication Service 16,698
16.07.2002 Brake Fluid, Inspection, and Lubrication Service 17,891
17.07.2003 Inspection & Lubrication Service 18,765
19.07.2004 Inspection & Lubrication Service 19,659
20.07.2005 Inspection & Lubrication Service 20,606
21.07.2006 Service 21,717
25.07.2007 Inspection & Lubrication Service 22,692
24.07.2008 Brake Fluid, Inspection, and Lubrication Service 23,641
13.07.2009 Inspection & Lubrication Service 24,522
05.08.2016 Lubrication Service 25,549
Key Details
  • ModelGolf Clipper Cabrio Auto
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Reg. Date01.08.1989
  • CC1781
  • Mileage~26,100 at visit
  • HistoryGood
  • ColourHelios Blue
  • Interior ColourGrey/Black
  • Interior TrimFabric
  • Chassis #WVWZZZ15ZKK029900
  • Engine #EX053440
  • Last Service05.08.2016
  • MOTYes Exp. 15.08.2024
  • MOT ExemptNo
  • Road Tax ExemptNo
  • HPi ClearYes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers1
  • Tyre TreadGood
  • Tyre BrandHankook
  • Tyre AgeDOT Marked 2021
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned~13 Years
  • Key FeatureLow Mileage / Ownership
  • Auction ID1623






Auction Closed

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This car didn't meet its reserve price and may soon be available as a private sale - please contact us for more information.

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Ask Questions
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4 Comments
pankjethwa
pankjethwa
1 year ago

Has it had any knocks to your knowledge? How is the roof operation?

StanHC
StanHC
1 year ago

What is the reserve you expect to reach?

Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
  StanHC
1 year ago

Stan, reserves are not disclosed until the auction end – please click the ‘earn more’ link by the bidding button. Adam TC

NNenergy
NNenergy
1 year ago

***

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Vehicle Location

London

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