Basic information and history

The Volkswagen Golf second generation was manufactured between 1983 and 1992 and is regarded by many as the most timeless of all Golfs. The model inherited the design language of the original Golf but grew somewhat in every direction and received a significantly more solid body. During the production period, a number of special editions were launched, and the Golf Memphis was one of these. The edition was sold during 1988 and was characterised by its own decor, special upholstery and a package of equipment that was otherwise optional, making it a popular choice among those who wanted a little more than a standard model without stepping up to the GTI.

In parallel with the civilian editions, Volkswagen developed its performance models. The GTI 16V with the four-valve 1.8-litre engine of type PL was presented in 1986 and quickly became a benchmark in its class. The same year also saw the introduction of Syncro, the four-wheel-drive system with a viscous coupling developed together with Steyr-Daimler-Puch in Graz, where the Syncro cars were also finished. The combination of 16V, turbo and Syncro never existed as a factory configuration, but it has long been a sought-after goal for enthusiasts building further on the platform.

This 1988 Golf Memphis has, according to the seller, undergone a complete conversion to GTI 16V Turbo Syncro. This means that the car has had its four-valve engine supplemented with turbocharging as well as the entire drivetrain from a Syncro with drive to all four wheels. The result is a car that outwardly wears one of the more discreet special editions but which technically is significantly closer to the four-wheel-drive performance models in the Golf II family. The build is done in the spirit of the Rallye, clearly inspired by the factory Golf Rallye of 1989, which likewise combined a forced-induction engine with Syncro four-wheel drive.

Equipment and options

• Golf Memphis body style, special edition 1988
• GTI 16V-type engine, 1.8 litres with four valves per cylinder
• Turbocharging
• Syncro drivetrain with four-wheel drive and viscous coupling

According to the seller, the conversion comprises a complete solution in which both the engine and drivetrain have been replaced with components of GTI 16V and Syncro type respectively. Fitting a turbo to the 16V engine is a well-known way of significantly increasing power compared with the original naturally aspirated engine, and combined with four-wheel drive it provides a grip that the front-wheel-drive GTI could never offer. The Syncro rear-end construction, with its own rear axle, propshaft and rear differential, is an extensive change compared with a standard Golf and requires the body and fuel tank to be adapted, which in itself says something about the level of ambition in the project. Prospective bidders are encouraged to review the auction's image material and to ask the seller questions regarding the chosen components, boost pressure and control. The engine comes from a Golf 3 2.0L ABF

Condition

The car is presented by the seller as a complete and finished build. The body retains its identity as a Golf Memphis, and the condition of the exterior should be assessed based on the auction's image material and at a possible viewing. As with all Golf IIs from this era, it is worth taking a closer look at classic problem areas such as wheel arch edges, sill boxes and the boot floor.

The interior is based on the Memphis edition's furnishings. Here too, reference is made to the images for an assessment of upholstery, instrument panel and details.

Information on tyres and wheels can be seen in the auction's images.

Mechanically, according to the seller, the car has been completely converted to a 2.0 ABF engine GTI 16V Turbo Syncro, meaning that the engine, gearbox, four-wheel drive and associated systems have been replaced or adapted. This is a construction that is well proven within Golf II circles but which at the same time places demands on careful execution. Interested parties are recommended to contact the seller for more detailed information about the execution and the car's function.

Service history

The car's technical history is characterised by the conversion to GTI 16V Turbo Syncro, which according to the seller has been fully carried out. Any documentation regarding the work, components and later maintenance can be requested directly from the seller prior to bidding.

Summary

This 1988 Volkswagen Golf Memphis combines one of the Golf II generation's less common special editions with the technical combination that many enthusiasts have dreamed of but which the factory never delivered: a 2.0 ABF turbocharged 16V engine coupled to Syncro four-wheel drive. This is a build aimed at those who know the platform well and who appreciate a discreet body with substantial content. The car is sold via Bidders Highway, and prospective bidders are encouraged to study the image material carefully and to ask the seller questions in order to get a complete picture of the execution.