Throttle Auctions: Rare 1989 Volkswagen Westfalia Syncro Heads to Auction With Turbo Swap and Six-Figure RestorationA 1989 Volkswagen Vanagon Westfalia Syncro — one of the most coveted configurations in the vintage van world — is heading to auction through Throttle Car Club, bringing with it a professionally executed turbo engine conversion, a comprehensive restoration totaling well over $50,000, and a well-documented two-owner history that stretches back to the vehicle's original delivery.The Westfalia Syncro occupies a singular space in the collector vehicle market, combining Volkswagen's celebrated camper-van heritage with four-wheel-drive capability — a pairing that has made it a perennial favorite among overlanding enthusiasts and serious collectors alike. This particular example, finished in gray with a cloth interior, represents the kind of long-term, enthusiast-owned stewardship that defines the best survivors in the segment.The van carries just under 105,000 estimated original miles. Its odometer ceased functioning shortly after rolling past the 100,000-mile mark, with approximately 1,500 miles added since, placing the actual chassis mileage comfortably within that range. The vehicle has been under continuous ownership since 2002, having passed through the hands of only two caretakers from new.In 2017, with 90,584 miles on the clock, the original factory drivetrain was removed and replaced with a modern Gen 5 gasoline turbo engine — a conversion professionally completed to improve power output, highway refinement, and long-distance touring capability. The factory engine is retained and accompanies the sale.AdvertisementAdvertisementConcurrent with the engine work, the Syncro underwent a sweeping restoration that addressed virtually every major system. Work included a full suspension and brake overhaul, a rebuilt Syncro four-wheel-drive transmission, thorough undercarriage restoration, and extensive paint, body, and roof refinishing. Bumpers were refinished as well. The van presents as completely rust-free — a rarity for vehicles of this era — owing in part to a regimen of climate-controlled storage that included heated winter housing and air-conditioned summer storage throughout ownership.Wheel fitment received a tasteful upgrade in the form of 16-inch Mercedes-sourced wheels, while the original Volkswagen factory wheels are also included with the sale. Additional original components and retained factory parts round out what amounts to an unusually complete package.The van is equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission and the 2.0-liter turbo engine fitted during the 2017 conversion. A clean title transfers with the sale, along with the original engine, factory wheels, and a collection of retained original parts.The Throttle Car Club auction is scheduled for June 26, 2025. Pre-bidding is available through Proxibid.Bid HereJoin our Newsletter, follow our Instagram page, and follow us on Facebook.