Volkswagen released the Golf Mk I as its replacement for the venerable Beetle in 1974. It proved to be a showroom success, with the Golf remaining an integral part of the company’s range ever since. Marketed in North America as the Rabbit, one of the more interesting variants is the Pickup. This 1982 example requires work, but the seller’s decision to auction it with No Reserve could make it an affordable project candidate. They have listed the Rabbit here on eBay in Orange, California. Although this classic has generated considerable interest, the bidding sits at only $730.
Although initially built in Germany, Volkswagen commenced North American production of the Rabbit in 1978. That was also when it introduced a uniquely local Pickup variant that Volkswagen would eventually sell in European markets. The first owner ordered this Rabbit in Diamond Silver Metallic, and although the paint shines, it exhibits deterioration that is consistent with age and long-term UV exposure. However, with no major panel imperfections and no evidence of rust, a fresh coat of paint would significantly enhance its appearance. The front bumper may respond positively to work with a polishing cloth, and the exterior plastic appears to be in great condition for its age.
In a bid to improve fuel economy, Volkswagen introduced a diesel engine to the Rabbit range in 1977. With the 1.6-liter four producing a factory-claimed 52hp and 71 ft/lbs of torque, it wasn’t the most potent motor on the planet. However, the low-end torque delivery makes these quite effective in city traffic, where they can chug along happily at low speeds without the driver being forced to shift gears. This Pickup features the desirable five-speed manual transmission, which improves the performance potential. The seller confirms that while the motor turns freely, it doesn’t run. It is unclear when it last fired a shot in anger, but with this classic now showing 389,000 miles on its odometer, budgeting for a rebuild or transplant would be wise.
One of the most significant weaknesses of Rabbits from this era was the interior, which is prone to considerable deterioration. This 1982 Pickup is no exception, although things could be worse than they are. Big-buck items, such as the dashpad and door trims, look surprisingly good. However, the situation deteriorates when we assess the remaining Black vinyl and the carpet. The driver’s seatcover seems particularly strange, suggesting that the foam has collapsed. At least a partial retrim is required, but the photos suggest that the deal includes an additional set of seats and a carpet set. The original radio has been replaced by what appears to be an inoperative CD player, and this Rabbit benefits from air conditioning.
This 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit Pickup may have attracted only twelve bids. However, with Listing View and Watch List tallies of 751 and 115, respectively, I suspect the action will intensify as the auction draws to a close. Although it may not possess the load-carrying capacity of many larger vehicles, it would be excellent for delivery or shop use in heavy traffic situations. It could also form the foundation for a rewarding DIY restoration. Are you tempted to pursue this little Volkswagen further?
Aw come on, only 390,000? It’s possible. I have a neighbor with 420,000 on a Ranger pickup. I said, how in tarnation did you accumulate so many miles? He said, he commuted like 100 miles one way for a job, for like 7 years, plus all the “other” driving. I knew a guy I worked with had one of these. He would use ether to start it in 70 degree weather. I don’t think the glow plugs worked, because if you use ether with glow plugs, you’ll blow the head off. I don’t think he ever got fuel for it. Kidding, but I think these were the absolute mileage champ of all time, 40-45mpg was common, however, the downside, it was a gutless thing, foot to the floor diminished mileage considerably, and that was the trade off. While 400K is getting up there, I’m sure there are reports of much more and for what, $700 bucks, I bet it’s something simple, oil engines rarely die altogether. I’ve sat behind( or above) a lot of tired diesels. I’d love to have this, I’m sure Geomechs could figure out what’s wrong. A/C? Good heavens, another one you’d have to shut it off to get over the hill.
In a side note, there were only 2 FWD pickups made in America, these in Westmoreland, PA, ’79-’84 and the Dodge Rampage.
How’s the turbopump? I remember spending a few five hour segments in a Rabbit diesel same year (partially on an interstate with expansion joints) Not anxious to repeat the experience. Still, for practical short trip hauling, you can’t beat this, but price turbopumps (or rebuilds) first.
This one and most of the Rabbits did not have turbos on them.
In the late 1980s we got a used Rabbit “Sportruck” with decals: gasoline engine and 4 speed with a/c that the seller’s mechanic had to fix. I only did a few upgrades: short shift and a stainless exhaust from IPD in Oregon. It served us well until the engine…did something, suddenly spewing oil but the pressure stayed normal. 2 quarts of oil later we got it back home and, in retrospect, I should have kept it, probably done a transplant. This is a tempting transplant candidate but these days I would have to put it out to someone else. My days of engine in-and-out (various air cooled VWs) trans upgrades (Merkur) constant wrenching to stay running (salvage 2002) are behind me. OTOH a transplant in to this body would make a nice ride.
Yes, transplant-SBC (Small Block Cummins:R2.8)!
Never have seen any better red neck cargo net for the bed anywhere.
If you feel the need for a VW diesel Rabbit pickup, this could be the one considering all the stuff that comes with it in the bed.
Solving the engine issue make be the biggest obstacle, as it looks like the seller is at repair shop.
Crazy those somewhat-too-big door “vent” windows do not swing open – why then are they even there?!
Had 1 of these in the mid 80’s, my 2nd Rabbit Diesel ( first one was a 2 door hatch). Owned it in Chicagoland. Cold weather was an issue, had a block heater and used to keep a trouble light under the oil pan. Plus fuel treatment. Later moved to FL, drove it down with wife & dog in cab. 21/2 tanks of fuel to go Chicago to Jax. Used it sporadically after that, no A/C in FL was a problem. Eventually hole rusted in cowl, it was gray so duct tape to the rescue. My FIL had too, a gasser.
so the window can go: up/down’n fill the space.
I like these & diesel is a plus. Unfortunately probably
time 4 a rebuild (we’d skip it @ our shop too 4 the reason).