As a fellow Syncro owner (check out my 1986 Volkswagen T3 Syncro) I can tell you that at $58,000, today’s seller is taking a considerable loss on their investment. I know what these vehicles cost to build out, and considering the specs, this rig is advertised at a fair price.
The Syncro is a popular travel vehicle that offers impressive go-anywhere credentials, simple mechanicals, a compact exterior, and capacious interior. Owners of this rig will enjoy easy access to a wide variety of OEM and aftermarket parts and accessories. Additionally, the Syncro has become a social media icon and a symbol of the vanlife movement. As a result, the market price for most Syncros has inflated, with some Westfalia Syncros exceeding $100,000. There are cheaper options out there, including this $65,000 1987 Volkswagen Syncro and a very reasonable $66,500 Volkswagen 16-inch Syncro Double Cab, but today’s build is one of the best values to date. This rig features a powerful Subaru H6 conversion, uprated transmission, extensive premium modifications and accessories, and a pop-top roof.
From the Seller:
“Our 1989 VW Vanagon Syncro Weekender is up for sale. Our family has finally outgrown it, and we are moving to California. The van is located in Bend, Oregon, with a clean title in hand. If you are looking for an honest rig, with its fair share of scratches, bumps, and bruises (we use it with delight), that’s equally great as a daily driver, and very capable off-trail, then this van is for you. Overland-ready, no expense spared. Many tasteful upgrades to make it a very capable and reliable rig. Our family has traveled all over the US and much of Baja over the years with it. We have almost all receipts dating back to 1989. We are long-time owners who purchased it originally from a friend and would love to see it go to the right new owner.”
1989 Vanagon Syncro 4×4
The original WBX engine fitted to the Vanagon is notoriously underpowered, which means many owners opt for a modern conversion with Subaru motors being a popular choice. Today’s Syncro benefits from a powerful 3.0-liter H6 Subaru engine conversion that was installed by Burley Motorsports, and it recently enjoyed a top-end rebuild from Crooked Finger Designs. The extra power and torque can wreak havoc with the stock gearbox, but this van enjoys a rebuilt and upgraded transmission from Weddle Industries. A powerful engine is combined with impressive go-anywhere capability courtesy of front and rear locking differentials and a rugged four-wheel-drive system created by the Austrian company, Steyr-Daimler-Puch. The minimalist interior includes Recaro seats, a VanagonLife locking center console, and a pop-top roof installed by Mastercraft Motors.
Distinguishing Features
- Battle Born lithium house battery 50-amp-hour with Zamp 200-watt solar
- Mefro steel wheels with BFGoodrich A/T tires
- Fox fully adjustable suspension, GoWesty front springs, Eibach rear springs, Burley Motorsports upper control arms, and more
- Fiamma F45S awning
- Yakima roof rack and cargo box
- Upgraded South African front brakes and GoWesty rear disc conversion
- GoWesty front and rear bumpers with dual swing outs and Aluminess storage box
This 1989 Vanagon Syncro 4×4 is listed for $58,000 and is currently located in Oregon. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
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