V-dub fans understand the charms of a Volkswagen hatchback. But, of course, many other enthusiasts are befuddled by anyone getting excited about a VW Golf.
Then again, this 2004 Volkswagen R32 recently offered on eBay is no ordinary hatch. Instead, it’s a limited-edition, all-wheel-drive hotrod that affirms Volkswagen’s commitment to affordable German performance engineering.
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The R32 Difference
The VW Golf and its GTI sibling have long been popular commuter cars. But lots of power has never been part of the mix. The fun mostly came from the excellent handling and its light weight.
The R32 changed all that—due to the 240hp 3.2-liter VR6 engine lurking under the hood. That handily beats the 120 to 170 ponies from the standard engines in the Mk.4 Golf/GTI chassis.
To put that power to the ground, the R32 uses all-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission, independent rear suspension, and large front disc brakes.
Subtle Style
A glance at an R32 reveals little more than the silhouette of a standard Golf or GTI. Indeed, Volkswagen has long been the master of subtle performance styling. Those 18-inch alloy wheels fill out the wheel wells nicely. Beyond the wheels, a unique front and rear bumper mate with side skirts to lower the three-door hatch’s visual stance.
Inside, leather sport seats look more aggressive than the usual chairs. But they seem quite comfortable in the way nearly all German sport seats are.
The R32 was sold in limited numbers for the 2004 model year (at least in the US). Only 5,000 units left the showroom. It was offered in only four colors—red, blue, black, and the Reflex Silver we see here.
Used But Loved
While we appreciate all cars, from concours queens to ratty high-mileage trucks pulled from a forest, we especially enjoy seeing vehicles with decent miles on the clock.
As a limited-edition model, this 2004 Volkswagen R32 might have been put away as a hedge on future investments. That didn’t happen here, thank goodness. This car has just over 100,000 miles on the odometer, although it looks nearly as fresh as a new car.
Yes, it has a few paint chips and flaws here and there—and the seller mentions the replacement of the front bumper due to an unfortunate incident involving wildlife. But otherwise, this is remarkably clean inside and out. A complete set of new tires was just fitted, along with a full fluid and filter service.
That all adds up to a car ready for thousands more miles of joyous service. We’d love slipping behind that leather wheel, firing up that sonorous and funky VR6 engine, and blasting toward our favorite twisties.
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