Rare and Cool: 2004 Volkswagen R32
The Volkswagen Golf MkIV was sold from 1999-2006 around the world, and the GTI version was sporty, but it wasn’t until the 2004 R32 edition that a true performance version was born. The R32 took most of its components from the 3.2 liter Audi TT, including engine, transmission and suspension, but it maintains the Golf level of useability. The cars weren’t that expensive when new, but have been practically depreciation proof, so you won’t find many of the 5,000 cars produced for less than $10k…unless they have 200k miles on the clock. Find this 2004 Volkswagen R32 offered for $8000 in San Rafael, CA via craigslist.
From the seller:
2004 VW R32
VIN: WVWKG61J34D078608
condition: good
cylinders: 6 cylinders
drive: 4wd
fuel: gas
paint color: blue
size: compact
title status: clean
transmission: manual
type: hatchback
Mk4 (2004) R32, deep blue pearl
Mileage: 196,548
I’ve owned this car since 2013 @ 148,000 miles. I’m the 4th owner.
Responsibly maintained with frequent oil/filter and haldex oil/filter changes. Serviced variously at Adanced Autowerke, Griffin, Peter & Wolf, and Sonnen VW San Rafael
Carfax report shows no reported accidents, but I believe it was damaged somehow and repaired at 16,000 miles in 2006
The good:
Shaved front badge, front and rear bumpers
Tasteful mods including Revo tune, eibach/bilstein suspension, adjustable links, neuspeed sway, fifteen52 tarmac in 17″, exhaust flapper switch, etc
New 25th anniversary Bluetooth head unit (an OEM vw upgrade)
Nearly new brakes and tires (excellent Continental all seasons)
Have mostly complete service records dating to 2009
Sale also includes oem Aristos
Can include Yakima Whispbar and Thule Canyon basket with sale: $300
The bad:
paint has chips and scratches consistent with 200k miles
previous owner had hood and front bumper repainted, work is very poor
interior condition consistent with 200k miles, front seats need reupholstering
Car has thrown a camshaft position code, so it’s most likely due for a timing chain. However, code was reset and hasn’t returned yet.
Seriously, just come buy it: it’s the OG R32 in the OG color. It drives and sounds so good … I already miss it.
See a better way to drive blue? tips@dailyturismo.com
Wow. No idea these held their value so well. Torn seats, badly painted hood and bumper, possible accident damage repair, 200K miles, needs a new timing chain, who knows what else with a 15 year old VW, and still $8K? Wow. They must be something special to drive?
Price seems high compared to lower mileage better condition one's i see on CL