Overland Classifieds :: 1987 Volkswagen Syncro 4×4 TDI Off-Grid Camper

The day has finally arrived when I have an opportunity to list a Volkswagen Syncro! I live in my 1986 Syncro, and while it has been an emotional rollercoaster, I honestly love it with every piece of my bankrupt heart. So, what are the benefits? The VW community is phenomenal; parts are easily sourced (or can be reconditioned); the boxy exterior dimensions provide a surprisingly spacious interior; and the van is relatively economical, easy to work on, and capable off-road. Furthermore, the Syncro’s cult-like status ensures a wealth of dedicated aftermarket overlanding parts and accessories to enhance all aspects of the driving and camping experience. 

From the Seller:

“Up for sale is my Syncro obsession. This van is done and sorted and has covered 110,000 original miles. I drive it daily. The Syncro is ready for anything after 10 years, a pile of cash, and endless personal hours to customize, rebuild, replace, or otherwise enhance every aspect of this truck. The entire build is documented on thesamba.com. [It’s had about] $7,000 of recent work, including new wheel bearings, CV, rebuilt shifter, brake cylinders, custom driveshaft, and coolant tank.” 

1987 Volkswagen Syncro 4×4

Originally designed for the German military, the Volkswagen T3 Syncro incorporated a four-wheel-drive system created by Austrian company Steyr-Daimler-Puch. Some vans, including today’s example, featured front and rear vacuum-operated locking diffs, which greatly enhanced all-terrain capability. 

Distinguishing Features

As a fellow Syncro owner, I can’t even comprehend how much time and money has been invested into this build. Notable upgrades include: 

  • Volkswagen 1.9 TDI motor matched with rebuilt and upgraded Syncro transmission and serviced front differential 
  • Westfalia interior 
  • Freshwater tank, 60-liter
  • CTEK-controlled MPPT solar, DC to DC charging, AC to DC charging, AGM batteries, and 120 watts of solar 
  • ASI Riviera pop-top roof

This 1987 Volkswagen Syncro 4×4 is listed for $65,000 and is currently located in Portland, Oregon. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.

Our No Compromise Clause: We carefully screen all contributors to make sure they are independent and impartial. We never have and never will accept advertorial, and we do not allow advertising to influence our product or destination. 

No money in the bank, but gas in the tank. Our resident Bikepacking Editor Jack Mac is an exploration photographer and writer living full-time in his 1986 Vanagon Syncro but spends most days at the garage pondering why he didn’t buy a Land Cruiser Troopy. If he’s not watching the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, he can be found mountaineering for Berghaus, sea kayaking for Prijon, or bikepacking for Surly Bikes. Jack most recently spent two years on various assignments in the Arctic Circle but is now back in the UK preparing for his upcoming expeditions—looking at Land Cruisers. Find him on his website, Instagram, or on Facebook under Bicycle Touring Apocalypse.