The Vanagon has become a social media icon, and the 4WD Syncro model is undoubtedly the most desirable model. Sure, the classic Volkswagen styling and boxy dimensions make these vans undeniably cool, but there’s more to their popularity than looks alone. In short, the Vanagon or T3 provides maximum space in the smallest possible package. Thanks to its brick-like dimensions and non-existent bonnet, the interior is remarkably spacious despite comfortably fitting in a standard parking space. Outfitted with the iconic Westfalia interior, this van provides a comfortable full-time rolling home for two people or a small family. In addition, these vans enjoy extensive aftermarket support with companies such as GoWesty, Vanagonlife, Burley Motorsports, Van Café, Venture Libre, and many more, providing parts and accessories to further uprate this platform for adventure. It’s also worth noting that due to poor maintenance and servicing, these vans are often misrepresented as unreliable, which is simply not the case. The issue here is that social media stardom has seen these vehicles often picked up by people that are invested in the vehicle’s photogenic styling and classic charm but not in the upkeep required to maintain a classic rig such as this. As a result, these often-unloved examples break down and are criticized online, which has given the Vanagon an unwarranted reputation for poor reliability. I’ve owned and lived in this 1986 Volkswagen Syncro for almost a decade, and while it’s had issues, I’ve covered 20,000 miles or more per year with minimal problems. These vans do not come up often on our forum, with previous examples including this 1985 Doka, a 1986 Westfalia, and a rare 16-inch Double Cab Doka. Today’s 1987 example showcases a Subaru conversion and premium modifications and is priced at a competitive $35,000.
From the Seller:
“Up for sale is our family’s adventure van, Big Red. We bought Big Red from a longtime The Samba contributor several years ago, flying one-way to California, making the sale, and promptly driving her home to Montana. We’ve done a lot of work to Big Red since purchase and have zero reservations that anyone could fly into Yellowstone International Airport and drive her home tomorrow. We have receipts for all modifications and maintenance, including a complete engine swap parts list and a ton of spare parts. If you’re a serious purchaser, I’m glad to jump on the phone to discuss all the details.”
1987 Vanagon Syncro
The stock motor has been replaced with a Subaru 3.3-liter engine that produces up to 227 horsepower and 227 pound-feet of torque (contact seller for exact specifications). A powerful engine conversion is mated with excellent capability thanks to front and rear locking differentials, Gelande crawling gear, and a 4WD system created by the Austrian company, Steyr-Daimler-Puch. This vehicle is over thirty years old, so the interior is expectedly basic but does include the following driver comforts:
- Stow-n-Go jump seats
- Cup holders
- Big Shot Shifter
- Power steering
- Premium aftermarket audio
Distinguishing Features
- NAHT Hightop and roof rack
- Espar B4 heater
- Fox adjustable front shocks, Bilstein 7100 rear shocks, Schwenk springs, Burley UCAs, and more
- GoWesty rear bumper with swing out
- ViAir air compressor
- ARB 2500 awning
This 1987 Vanagon Syncro is listed for $35,000 OBO and is currently located in Bozeman, Montana. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Samba forum post here.
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