Off-Road Rabbit: 1991 VW Golf Country 4×4 | Barn Finds

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When Volkswagen set out to create a four-wheel drive version of its popular Golf sedan, I doubt it intended to build a collectible modern classic in the process. This 1991 VW Golf Country is made rarer still by its classification as a “Chrome” edition, which had some cosmetic add-ons that set it apart from its less-blingy siblings. This particular car has a somewhat spotty history in terms of being listed here on eBay at no reserve and seemingly turning up as a constant no-sale. Still, it’s a well-preserved specimen that may have a seller who should just set a price using the “Buy-It-Now” option. 

To own one of these in such pristine condition really does pose a quandary: how are you supposed to use it in the environment and manner it was intended for without destroying its value? A friend of mine just acquired a survivor-grade 1988 BMW 325ix, the 4WD variant of the popular E30 platform. He’s facing the same dilemma: its inherent value lies in conditions he will never use it, out of fear of inviting rust into a rust-free chassis.

This Golf Country remains in spectacular condition with no discernible blemishes in the cabin. The sport leather bucket seats look like God’s own Recaro, and the simple three-spoke steering wheel is a throwback to when steering wheels were things of beauty. The matching door panels are unexpected, and while the limited information available indicates the “Chrome” package focused mostly on external add-ons of the cosmetic type, the original owner still chose almost every major option, according to the seller – including a Webasto-style sunroof.

Apparently, features like power windows and locks put this Country in the one-of-two category, if we’re splitting hairs about what makes a rare vehicle even rarer. The seller touts an extensive maintenance history as another bonus of ownership, and it’s apparent based on the low mileage and this photo that the Golf doesn’t see much action on the road. In an era of gray-market vehicles that are now legally importable, it’s not a surprise to see this car on eBay – but I am curious just how the seller has listed it multiple times at no reserve. Will it find a home this go-round?

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