‘N Sync(ro): Pro-Restored & Upgraded 1986 Volkswagen Vanagon Syncro Westfalia
- March 26, 2021
- Legendary “Pop-Top” Westfalia Camper
- Pro-Upgraded to Syncro 4-Wheel Drivetrain
- Restored in 2007 by Westfalia Specialists GoWesty
- Recent $13k Service by Westfalia Specialists Westy Werks
- Upgraded 2.5L Engine w/ 5-Speed Manual Transaxle
- Relentlessly Maintained & Serviced
- Ready to Drive & Enjoy w/ Immense Capability
Volkswagen’s Vanagon debuted for 1979 and by the mid-‘80s, it marked a revolution with water-cooled engines and optional all-wheel drive Syncro drivetrain. These vans and their Westfalia camper versions are so equipped that they’ve assumed legendary status for their durability, go-anywhere capabilities and startlingly comfortable accommodations and amenities.
This 1986 Volkswagen Vanagon Syncro Westfalia Camper (whew, that’s a mouthful!) is a professionally restored example, with the work done by the specialists at GoWesty back in 2007 at 146k miles. At that time, the Syncro-spec suspension was installed, along with a 2.5L engine and 5-speed manual transmission with Syncro locker. In 2012 at 176k miles, the vehicle returned to GoWesty, where it was equipped with Syncro AWD. This Westfalia camper van retains the original interior in very nice condition and includes an auxiliary battery system with solar panel and an Engel fridge/freezer. The knowledgeable seller advises the 2.5L engine currently has 55k miles on it and the rebuilt transmission and front differential have just 25k miles of use. From 2007 to the present, most mechanicals have either been replaced or rebuilt, and another $13k in repairs and service work was recently completed in preparation for this intensively maintained, immensely capable, and extremely enjoyable vehicle’s sale offering.
At the time of listing, this Vanagon has 202k seller-stated miles and given its restoration and maintenance history, should deliver many more miles of fun and adventure with the next owner. It also defies space and time as well as simple categorization. The Vanagon is not listed in the usual collector-car price guides; besides, this Westfalia camper and its upgraded engine and Syncro drivetrain/suspension is so thoroughly updated, improved, used, and maintained as to render such comparisons invalid. While the seller’s asking price seems a bit lofty at first, it will quite likely provide years of happy motoring and usability anywhere the new owner should ever choose to take it. In our opinion, it’s unique and has few comparable sales to discuss. Accordingly, it should be considered ‘Worth the Premium’.
