Subaru-Powered 1989 Volkswagen Vanagon Westfalia GL Syncro 5-Speed
Vehicle Details
- Year: 1989
- Make: Volkswagen
- Model: Westfalia Vanagon
- VIN: WV2YB0257KG002250
- Mileage Shown: 13,203km (TMU)
- Transmission: Manual
- Title Status: Registration
- Color: Green
- Seller Type: Private Party
- Location: Edmonton, AB T6G 2L3
- Country: Canada
- Lot #: V-0055923
Volkswagen’s T3-generation Vanagon Westfalia is renowned for its classic charm and go-anywhere versatility. This 1989 example has been extensively refurbished and upgraded following the owner’s acquisition in 2018, featuring a Subaru-sourced 2.5-liter flat-four engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and a Syncro all-wheel-drive system. Refinished in Metallic Green over a reupholstered black and white interior, it comes equipped with a pop-up roof and skylights, tubular metal bumpers, a ladder, and LED lighting. Inside, the cabin features power accessories, rear seats that convert into a bed, a swing-out table, a water storage tank, and a fully equipped kitchenette with a stove, refrigerator, and sink. This adventure-ready T3 is now being offered for auction by its seller out of Canada.
Originally finished in blue, this example was refinished in Metallic Green with pearlescent white accents as part of its extensive five-year restoration. Under current ownership, the tubular metal bumpers were added, and the side steps and spare tire carrier were media blasted and powder coated. The windshield and associated rubber seals were replaced, and additional exterior features include a pop-up camper roof, a ladder, dual pop-up skylights, sliding side windows, external utility hookups, a receiver hitch, an LED light bar, LED headlights, and tinted rear windows. It rides on silver-finished 15″ five-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires installed in June 2024, with a full-size spare mounted beneath the vehicle. Detailed images are provided in the gallery along with a CARFAX report, which notes a damage claim in November 2011 involving the left rear side of the van.
Inside, the cabin has been refurbished with black and white leatherette with heated bucket seats, quilted leatherette upholstery, and carbon fiber-style trim. Additional features include a two-spoke steering wheel, an aftermarket shift knob, a VDO instrument cluster, swiveling passenger seat, a heater, power windows and locks, and a Kenwood head unit. The rear compartment has been optimized for camping, featuring black and white leatherette-trimmed storage cabinets, a bed-convertible rear bench, a pop-up topper bed, LED cabin lighting, curtains, a swing-out table, a water storage tank, and a kitchenette with a stove, sink, and a Dometic refrigerator. All gauges and electronics are reported to be in proper working order with no warning lights illuminated.
Power comes from a Subaru-sourced 2.5-liter EJ251 flat-four engine installed in June 2019, with additional upgrades, including an aftermarket exhaust system. All four wheels are driven through a 5-speed manual transmission and a Syncro all-wheel-drive system. In August 2023, the timing belt, head gasket, head gasket bolts, spark plugs, knock sensor, and oil pan were replaced, followed by a new alternator, water pump, a custom driveshaft, and transmission shifter link in July 2024 and a starter replacement in August 2024. The fuel tank has been ceramic-coated, and dual batteries have been installed for added reliability.
This sale will include the owner’s manuals, a spare tire, and a Canadian registration.
The seller would like you to know: “This 1989 VW Vanagon Syncro camper is an all-wheel-drive adventure-ready vehicle that has undergone a complete 5-year restoration, making it a one-of-a-kind gem for any enthusiast. The restoration includes a powerful and reliable 2.5L Subaru engine for enhanced performance and efficiency.
• Color: Green Grasshopper – a stunning, rare color that stands out on the road.
• Engine: Fully swapped 2.5L Subaru engine, providing superior power and reliability.
• Drive: All-Wheel Drive (Syncro), perfect for off-road or everyday driving.
• Suspension & Brakes: Brand new suspension and brake system, ensuring a smooth and safe ride.
• Interior: Entirely new interior, providing comfort and style for long road trips or camping adventures.
• Lighting: Equipped with energy-efficient LED lights inside and out for a modern touch.
• Restoration: A comprehensive 5-year restoration, maintaining the original charm while updating for modern-day driving.
This van is ready to hit the road, whether you’re looking for a reliable camper for weekend getaways or an all-terrain vehicle for more rugged adventures.”
Auction Results
- Highest Bid: $22,250
- Auction End: Mar 19, 2025 07:06:13PM UTC
- Number of Bids: 48
Attachments
Comments (80)
Highest Offer Received $36,000.00
Consider my missed bid of $23k? I was busy at the end of the auction.
Bid in the amount of $22,250
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who would bid against himself?
Bid in the amount of $17,500
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A bid has been retracted. Please refresh your page to see the correct bid amount.
Bid in the amount of $16,500
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I spent $15000 for interior This build includes many thoughtful custom touches, from the modified front luggage rack and twin pop-tops to details like the exhaust wrap on the headers.
many original Vanagon fabrics and surfaces retain years of wear and unseen buildup. While some prefer the nostalgia of the original materials, a fresh, modern interior ensures a cleaner and more hygienic space, especially for long adventures.
The vinyl surface is much easier to clean, making it ideal for a camper. However, in winter, it can feel cool—that’s why heated seats were added for extra comfort. The upholstery update used close to 30 yards of vinyl, and after going through the process, it’s clear why many Vanagons still have their original interiors—it’s an expensive and labor-intensive job.
Bid in the amount of $10,999
Bid in the amount of $10,500
Bid in the amount of $10,249
Alone the Subaru conversion cost me over$30000
@Notriding If they do it won't start until April 2nd.
Anybody know if Trump tariffs are gonna mess with the importing south of the border?
Bid in the amount of $9,999
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Awesome syncro
Bid in the amount of $8,500
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@skiers1
These are brand new tires
You can respond with:
“The van is equipped with BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires, which are excellent for off-road, winter, and mountain conditions. They provide great traction and durability, so you won’t need to change them for your trip through the Rockies.”
Are the tires Mtn/snowflake rated? I would be driving across the rockies and through the BC interior to Vancouver which can be very dicy in the winter months. 4WD obviously is great, but only with the right tires.
@Singer2020
*“The van was only taken out in winter for photos and videos for the auction. I don’t drive it during winter—it has always been parked. Also, in Alberta, we don’t use salt on the roads, so there’s no concern about rust from winter driving.
Regarding the Subaru engine swap, importing to the U.S. depends on state regulations. Some states, like California, have strict emissions requirements, while others are more lenient. It’s best to check with your local DMV or an import specialist to confirm the process.”**
Since the engine swap, can you import it to US? Also any metal work to repair any rust since the car is in a snowy climate?
@joebatters
I am not sure but a few tons can tow
I see there is a tow hitch. What is the estimated tow rating?
skier1
It is 2005 subaru impreza 2.5 l
Skier1
It is 2005 subaru impreza 2.5 litter
Hi. Nice looking build here.
What year and model Subaru did the motor come from?
Bid in the amount of $7,250
911Browesr
The first starter didn’t fit so I ordered the high torque starter for this powerful engine
The van is road ready you can drive the van easily 2000 miles to get you home
The van cruises easily 75mph or more with reliable and powerful engines that’s why the swap
Great job on the restoration! I have a few questions:
- Was the starter replaced twice? Carfax shows replaced in August and Nov 2024
- Is the van road trip ready? Could someone pick up and drive it 2,000 miles to home?
- Does the van cruise comfortably at 75 mph?
Bid in the amount of $7,000
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@mikerunt
If you need A/c you can get from small car performance a dash A/c and you can install it by yourself
@Amasdaha
Thanks for the compliment! The Subaru engine wasn’t new when installed. It had 60,000 kilometers on it before I had it rebuilt. Since the rebuild, I’ve only driven about 2,500 kilometers. Let me know if you have any other questions!”
Bid in the amount of $5,000
This looks like a great build, one more engine question, was the Subie engine new for the install, and if not how many km/miles on it as a used engine before the refurbishment? Thanks
@babak200080 thanks for the quick reply. I need AC in the Texas heat. Great looking rig.
@mikerunt
The van does not have A/C the heater works
All component in kitchen works
No rust on this van
Break and suspension new
AC and heat work?
All kitchen items work (stove, fridge, sink)?
Are there undercarriage photos for rust?
Brakes and suspension refreshed?
@zollerm
On subie energy is just 2500 kilometres
Bid in the amount of $3,377
How many miles on the Subie engine? Thanks.
Bid in the amount of $2,525
@wirak apologies. Does apply to some used and it is grouped with light trucks. But you are right in your assumption that it's exempt being 25 years old or older.
@wirak No. not applicable. It's not a light truck and it's also a used vehicle.
Nice Vanagon. Would the ‘Chicken Tax’ still apply? Or does it go away on vehicles 25 or more years old? Unfortunately that tax would add 25% to buyer’s winning bid.
Bid in the amount of $1,989