As some of you already know, I’ve lived in my 1986 Volkswagen Syncro for the best part of a decade, and it’s been a faithful travel companion. I recently interviewed Venja Travel about their current mission to complete the Pan American highway in their beautiful T3 Doka Syncro. During our conversation, we agreed that a double-cab pickup is, in many ways, the ultimate all-around vehicle as it can be utilized as a commercial workhorse, daily driver, recreational vehicle, or indeed an overland rig. That said, the Syncro is more than thirty years old and comes with certain caveats. First and foremost, this is not a modern vehicle, and even with the Ecotec engine conversion, the Syncro will require regular servicing and maintenance to ensure reliability. Secondly, unless this truck has undergone a complete nut and bolt restoration, expect to regularly put your hand in your pocket to replace decrepit parts. Furthermore, these vehicles are slow and noisy, so driver fatigue can be considerable on long journeys.
However, despite all this, nothing I’ve driven comes close to the satisfaction of piloting a Syncro. With some time and effort, they are reliable, capable, and a fantastic overland platform. In addition, the aftermarket support is excellent, with parts, accessories, and services readily available. Finally, the online community is practically unmatched and is an excellent resource for keeping your Volkswagen rolling. We’ve featured several expedition-ready examples, including this 1986 Westfalia, a 1989 overland build, and a 16-inch double-cab. Today’s 1985 offering has covered 106,000 miles, showcases a 2.4-liter Ecotec conversion with tasteful modifications, and is priced at $40,000.
From the Seller:
“Looking for the ultimate adventure rig? Look no further than this 1985 Volkswagen T3 Syncro Doka Transporter! This fire service vehicle from Germany was imported to the US in 2009 and is now ready to tackle any terrain.”
1985 Volkswagen T3 Transporter Doka Syncro
The original motor has been swapped with a 2.4-liter General Motors Ecotec inline-four engine that produces between 164-182 horsepower and 159-172 pound-feet of torque, depending on the model. A modern engine is mated with the Syncro’s impressive all-terrain capability thanks to a unique 4WD system created by Steyr-Daimler-Puch, front and rear locking differentials, decoupler, skid plates, “Gelände” crawling gear, and more. The T3 or Vanagon is over thirty years old, so the original interior features basic comforts.
Distinguishing Features
- Steel wheels with Accelera mud-terrain tires
- LED headlights
- Bullbar
This 1985 Volkswagen T3 Transporter Doka Syncro is listed for $40,000 and is currently located in Reno, Nevada. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
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