While numerous automobile owners have less-than-fond memories of particular makes or models they’ve owned in the past, Yugo seems to be one of the brands with a reputation for displeasing U.S. consumers about as much as any, with previous caretakers citing issues such as build quality, reliability, rust, and a host of other problems. On the other hand, a lot of time has passed since the company ceased importing its cars into the United States after 1992, and it’s been years since I last saw one of these cruising around my town. This 1987 Yugo GV here on eBay needs brake work, but it’s running and affordable, priced at $1,950 or best offer. This one’s located in Lockport, Illinois, and might be a fun little car to improve or perhaps customize.
There has been an abundance of jokes made already about these cars, so I’ll limit mine to just one- how do you double the value of a Yugo? Fill the gas tank. However, what’s sometimes overlooked is how affordable these cars were when new and how simple their design was, so it’s unfair to perceive these vehicles entirely in negative terms. This one is also running and driving, so while the 1.1-liter engine is only rated at a mere 55 horsepower, at least it’s faster than walking. The owner also reports that the transmission still shifts through the gears, but he can’t get the brakes to function, which is the reason listed for selling.
Some corrosion is present on the underside, described as typical, and a few traces are visible on the body, such as on the left quarter near the bumper. The good news is that most of the panels appear to remain in fairly decent condition and relatively straight, so it might not be a monumental task to make a few sheet metal repairs and spray on a fresh coat of paint. I’m picturing this one in a color other than white, with aftermarket wheels and a few other cosmetic upgrades to spruce up the exterior a bit.
The interior actually looks pretty good here, and I’m not spotting any obvious tears in the seats or flaws on the dash. The radio is missing, but the seller mentions dealer-installed air conditioning is included, though I’m guessing turning it on might rob a significant portion of the engine’s already limited power. Is this 1987 Yugo GV one you’d have any interest in acquiring and turning into a budget-friendly weekend cruiser?
Please don’t anybody pick on me….
I actually liked these cars when they came out. And still do. Unfortunately many of the examples that are left out there are fairly rough. This one seems kind of middle of the road. The body looks pretty straight, and not too much rust showing up on the body. Its used, for sure. But for the right price, you could have a fun getting an older car up and running. And let’s face it, not too many of these will show up at a Cars and Coffee. White wouldn’t be my first choice, I always liked red on these. Thanks for writing this up Mike. I always enjoy seeing a little of everything on Barnfinds. Even Yugos.
Why does a Yogo have a rear defrost grid?
So you can keep your hands warm wile pushing it!
In response to your question about anyone interested in acquiring a 1987 Yugo, my answer is I was and did in 1987. It’s a hard pass in 2026.
Better than walking 🚶♂️ 🇸🇰
Say that again after it leaves you stranded. Who’s going to “restore” a car like this. If you want one, you hold out until you find one without rust, they are out there, each one that shows up gets featured on this site and they aren’t much more expensive than this one.
Steve R