For Sale: 1986 Volkswagen Vanagon in Lithia Springs, Georgia

For those in the know, this 1986 Volkswagen Vanagon Syncro 4x4 is a rare find that adds a go-anywhere reputation to VW' carryall. So if you're interested in being the most unique van everywhere from the school run to the camp site, read on...

The Vanagon has VW's unmistakable bread van-style silhouette. It maximizes the most efficient use of space. But on this one, the taller 4x4 stance and larger 15-inch alloys add a new dimension. It gives this van added attitude that goes well with adventurer-style paint. So while the value price will leave room in your budget for a respray, this one already does give off the right vibe. Plus, there's a lot of robust history here. These were actually modified for 4x4 service by Steyr-Puch. They have a reputation for making serious off-road machines, including military vehicles and they even developed the Mercedes G-Wagon. So a specialty build in German took more time and cost more money. So the few that made it over to the USA were expensive. That made them rare when new and even more appreciated today.

There are three rows of seating inside to keep this a true people carrier. The driver gets all the right comforts with high-back cloth bucket seat. It has good bolstering and armrests to make sure it's long-haul comfortable. Plus, there's a large steering wheel, a gearshift within easy reach, VDO gauges with handy tach, and the factory AM/FM/cassette stereo for entertainment. The heater works well, which is good for those times when you're spending the night in nature. This has also been built for R12 air conditioning, but it will need at least a conversion and a service before blowing cold again. The rear still folds flat for a bed-like setup. So we just bet you're thinking about camping out on the beach, and not even having to worry about how loose the driving sand is when you get up in the morning.

The Vanagon has a big advantage over its predecessors with a 2.1-liter flat-four that's both fuel-injected and water-cooled. This shows all the right signs of being the original motor, and the design has it mounted low in the floor for good 4x4 duty. VW's Synchro system was their version of all-wheel-drive similar to Audi's quattro. What makes it particularly good in all situations is the four-speed manual also has a low gear (five gears total.) So when you're trying to slog through thick mud, you can make your best torque right from the start (the BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain T/As are good for that, too.) But you can skip the granny gear and go right for first gear during everyday driving. Plus, power steering and power brakes with front discs are nice for all driving situations.

Complete with owner's manual, this is one of the few times a Vanagon Syncro is going to be in such close reach. So don't miss your chance, call today!