A 1989 Volkswagen Vanagon Westfalia Syncro — one of the most coveted configurations in the vintage van world — is heading to auction through Throttle Car Club, bringing with it a professionally executed turbo engine conversion, a comprehensive restoration totaling well over $50,000, and a well-documented two-owner history that stretches back to the vehicle’s original delivery.
The Westfalia Syncro occupies a singular space in the collector vehicle market, combining Volkswagen’s celebrated camper-van heritage with four-wheel-drive capability — a pairing that has made it a perennial favorite among overlanding enthusiasts and serious collectors alike. This particular example, finished in gray with a cloth interior, represents the kind of long-term, enthusiast-owned stewardship that defines the best survivors in the segment.
The van carries just under 105,000 estimated original miles. Its odometer ceased functioning shortly after rolling past the 100,000-mile mark, with approximately 1,500 miles added since, placing the actual chassis mileage comfortably within that range. The vehicle has been under continuous ownership since 2002, having passed through the hands of only two caretakers from new.
In 2017, with 90,584 miles on the clock, the original factory drivetrain was removed and replaced with a modern Gen 5 gasoline turbo engine — a conversion professionally completed to improve power output, highway refinement, and long-distance touring capability. The factory engine is retained and accompanies the sale.
Concurrent with the engine work, the Syncro underwent a sweeping restoration that addressed virtually every major system. Work included a full suspension and brake overhaul, a rebuilt Syncro four-wheel-drive transmission, thorough undercarriage restoration, and extensive paint, body, and roof refinishing. Bumpers were refinished as well. The van presents as completely rust-free — a rarity for vehicles of this era — owing in part to a regimen of climate-controlled storage that included heated winter housing and air-conditioned summer storage throughout ownership.
Wheel fitment received a tasteful upgrade in the form of 16-inch Mercedes-sourced wheels, while the original Volkswagen factory wheels are also included with the sale. Additional original components and retained factory parts round out what amounts to an unusually complete package.
The van is equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission and the 2.0-liter turbo engine fitted during the 2017 conversion. A clean title transfers with the sale, along with the original engine, factory wheels, and a collection of retained original parts.
The Throttle Car Club auction is scheduled for June 26, 2025. Pre-bidding is available through Proxibid.
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Throttle Car Club’s Auction specializes in buying and selling collectible cars located throughout the New England area. Our Annual Live In-Person Auction features as many as 100 vehicles on site at our new 35,000 sf facility in Scarborough, Maine, each year. All registered buyers and sellers get access into event as well as our welcome reception. Lastly, Throttle is also a licensed used car dealer in the State of Maine. Please continue to check out inventory for available vehicles for sale/auction.
Our team of industry experts understands that trust is a key component when deciding to buy a vehicle. Our team of qualified collector car experts can assist you in finding your dream car on a nationwide basis while providing investment valuation guidelines. We are ready to deliver you the best experience possible while achieving your desired results.
How to buy a car on auction?
- Register on one of the links above to start bidding.
- Get Pre-approved for financing by JJbest. Click here to apply.
- Winning Bidders are required to pay a $1000 deposit at time of auction with the balance of the sale due to Throttle within 2 business days.
- Throttle can provide a shipping quote by a reputable transport company if needed.
- Throttle will provide you with all documentation necessary to register your car.
Buyer Fees
- 10% Buyer’s Premium on vehicles purchased at in-person live auctions
- 13% Buyer’s Premium on vehicles purchased on online auctions
Once we receive your completed registration form, you will receive a confirmation email from our Bidder Registration Department.
As a registered bidder, you and a guest will receive designated seating and access to the cocktail reception on Friday evening.
Bidder registration fees are non-refundable.
Schedule of Events
June 16th – 18th – Consignment Vehicle Dropoff 9:00am – 4:00pm
June 19th –
Vehicle Preview 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Registration 3:00pm – 6:00pm
Registered Buyer & Seller Welcome Reception 5:00pm – 7:00pm
June 20th – Registration Opens at 8:00am
Auction Starts at 10:00am
If you have questions regarding this process, call us at (888) 959-8051 x 6 or email us at auction@throttlecarclub.com. Our bidder registration experts are ready to assist you!
Shawn Henry 
Eve Nowell