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Closed Auction- Unsold

1988 Volkswagen Golf 4+E

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  • Mileage~45,000
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine1.3L
  • LocationEdinburgh

AUCTION CLOSED

1988 Volkswagen Golf 4+E

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Introduction

Colin Bashford
Professional Consigner

The hardiness and reliability made the Mk2 Golf so popular - this 4+E offers the perfect blend of performance with economy.

This is Volkswagen's second generation of the Golf, it was VW's highest volume seller from '83-'92, after which it was replaced by the Mk3. The wheelbase grew by 3 inches, along with the exterior dimensions. Its exterior design was developed in-house by Schäfer while keeping the essence and general lines of its Giugiaro-designed predecessor, yet slightly more rounded.

The Golf Mk2 was powered by a range of four-cylinder engines, this example has the novelty of a fifth gear for improved economy. Manual transmission cars with this fifth gear were labelled '4+E'.

This example comes equipped with the 1.3L EA111 inline-4 engine, and is coming to sale with 33 years of ownership with Eileen, one previous owner, and only ~45,000 on the clock.

This auction listing was written from information supplied by Colin after meeting Eileen 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

33 years of treasured ownership, Eileen reports her Golf 4+E is part of the furniture.

Eileen was given the option of choosing herself a new company car, she was looking for a model with great road handling and all-around visibility and the Golf met all of her needs. She was even happy to wait a few extra weeks for it to be delivered in her colour of choice - "Metallic Stratos Blue".

When Eileen left the company, she decided to buy the car and has enjoyed ownership since 1989, the past 33 years! Over those 33 years, Eileen reports the car has been extremely reliable and mechanically only required a new cylinder head gasket in 2019 and then a new distributor in October 2021. Over 20 years ago Eileen reported having two very minor incidents in the car, both where other drivers have hit the back of the car, both claims have been repaired through the insurance company.

Eileen reports that in 2012 a new water pump and timing belt was fitted, along with 2 new front wings in 2015. Now Eileen has retired, she rarely uses the car and mentions it spends most of its time in the garage, she'd love to find someone who appreciates the car as she has to take over ownership, she'll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have about the car below in the comments.

Eileen
Vehicle Owner

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Exterior

So very 80s, surely you've got to agree that the design has aged well on the Mk2 Golf, and will now forever be an iconic classic.

Wheels and Tyres

Fitted with the classic VW Mk2 wheels and covered with VW black trim around the centres, the wheels all present in used condition, they would benefit from a refresh due to some surface corrosion as pictured.

The wheels are wrapped in Michelin MXT 80's at the rear, and Energy's at the front, the front tyres are dated 2000/2001. They're showing little signs of cracking, the tyres have passed their latest MOT earlier this month without major issues.

Bodywork

The bodywork on the 4+E is in line with the age and mileage of the car. Generally, the bodywork appears very straight and true, with all the shut lines appearing even and doors, bonnet, and boot all open and close cleanly and precisely. As shown in the photos, the tailgate needs to be propped open when loading.

While capturing the bodywork up close we did notice a small dent to the passenger door, and some wear to the rear boot. Eileen reports the front wings were replaced in 2015.

We have taken hi-resolution images and videos of the car for you to assess the bodywork condition for yourselves.

Paint

Finished in "Metallic Stratos Blue", the colour really suits the boxy shape of the car. The paint looks even in colour and coverage for the age. We did notice the odd scratch and some paint swirls which we believe would come out with a deep polish.

Again, the images taken are from different angles and reflections to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. Please take the time to fully assess the condition.

Glass and Trim

The glass on the Golf looks to all be in great condition, with no obvious wear or discolouration that we could see. The black plastic trim around the car has started to lose its colour over the years and would benefit from some trim restorative wax.

The car comes fitted with 'Golf' branded mudguards behind each wheel.

Interior

Enough space for the whole family, this 4+E interior has stood the test of time!

Seats and Carpets

Grey cloth seats are fitted within the Golf 4+E, with supportive bolsters that hold you tight in the corners, but offer a comfortable seating position for long drives.

The interior appears in great condition considering the mileage and age - we did notice a tear to the driver's seat bolster as pictured. There is some wear to the driver's door card worth noting as well. The rear seats, passenger seat, carpets, and headlining all present in great condition with no issues noticed.

Please take a look at the extensive media for a detailed view of the cabin.

Dashboard

The black plastic yet high-quality dashboard appears in great condition, in line with the age and mileage of the car. With no warning lights displayed. The odometer is showing a reading of ~45,765 miles.

Please see the interior gallery for more detailed shots.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The original steering wheel and five-speed gear selector with (E) standing for economic 5th gear, both present in great condition, and are consistent with the overall presentation of the cabin.

Mechanics

The 'E' may stand for economy, however, this Mk2 still provides analogue hatchback thrills and handling.

Engine and Gearbox

The Mk2 was powered by a range of four-cylinder engines, the 4+E offered a novelty of a fifth gear for improved economy. This example comes equipped with the 1.3L EA111 inline-4 engine.

Take a look to see 'On the Road' footage and hear the 1.3L jump into life. Eileen reports that the car goes through the gears smoothly as you would expect. Please take a look at the video and photographs of the tidy engine bay which is highly original.

Suspension and Brakes

Eileen reports a very enjoyable and comfortable ride in the car, the fitment of MacPherson strut independent front suspension, trailing arms, and a torsion beam at the rear, rack and pinion steering makes for an entertaining drive.

The Drive

Eileen mentioned to us she loves driving this car, so much in fact she's owned the car for the past 33 years, it offers the perfect balance of handling at power.

Electrics and Other

All of the standard electrical fittings are said to be fully functional. Eileen reports, that there is a small leak from underneath at the front left-hand side. This would normally be repaired at the next service.

Please take a look at the images and videos for a detailed tour of this car's exterior and interior.

History and Paperwork

33 years of loving ownership, and one keeper, this has the be one of the most loved '4+E's on the market today.

Eileen has really enjoyed and properly looked after this car for the past 33 years. In theory, she is the one and only owner, having ordered the car as a company car and then purchasing it from her previous employer in 1989. Take a look through the history and paperwork to see the great amount of history this car comes with.

Eileen will be more than happy to answer any questions you have about the car in the comments below.

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 hi-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
11.02.2022 MOT 45,744
20.11.2020 MOT 45,624
11.06.2019 MOT 45,588
07.06.208 MOT 45,455
02.06.2017 MOT 45,318
03.06.2016 MOT 45,052
04.06.2015 MOT 44,762
10.06.2014 MOT 44,587
05.06.2013 MOT 44,231
07.06.2012 MOT 44,139
27.05.2011 MOT 44,031
26.05.2010 MOT 43,811
02.06.2009 MOT 43,711
09.05.2008 MOT 43,599
04.06.2007 MOT 43,180
09.05.2006 MOT 42,043
16.05.2000 Service 34,990
18.05.1999 Service 33,470
14.05.1998 Service 31,298
23.05.1996 Service 27,677
22.05.1995 Service 23,327
24.05.1993 Service 18,295
22.05.1992 Service 16,727
30.05.1990 Service 11,480
18.05.1989 Service 5,975
Key Details
  • ModelGolf 4+E
  • TransmissionManual
  • Reg. Date17.05.1988
  • CC1272cc
  • Mileage~45,000
  • HistoryGreat
  • ColourStratos Blue
  • Interior ColourGrey
  • Interior TrimCloth
  • Chassis #WVWZZZ19ZJW592990
  • Engine #MH740776
  • MOTYes. Exp - 10.02.2023
  • MOT ExemptNo
  • Road Tax ExemptNo
  • HPi ClearYes
  • Former Keepers1
  • Tyre BrandMichelin
  • Tyre Age2000/2001
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned~33 years
  • Key FeatureOwnership






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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5 Comments
bassett45
bassett45
2 years ago

Yes please

bassett45
bassett45
  EileenR
2 years ago

Thank you Eileen

bassett45
bassett45
2 years ago

Morning Eileen hope you are well I was just wandering what sort of damage did it have to the rear and what was repaired many thank jack

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Vehicle Location

Edinburgh

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