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Ratty Rescue: MK2 in Rare Blue

Today Volkswagen revealed the entirely new MK7 Jetta. VW chose a really nice shade of blue for the premiere model, so today’s Ratty Rescue is very fitting. This rough around the edges Jetta is looking for a new home, and it’s a rare model at a low price.

In 1987 Volkswagen upgraded the engine in all Jetta GLIs to the dual-overhead cam 1.8L 16V engine. The 105HP engine was a revelation in the small sedan. The new engine made the car a true sports sedan. In 1989 VW expanded the GLI model with a new limited edition Wolfsburg model. This car came standard with the high-revving engine, a close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission, modified body kit, rear spoiler, whip antenna, and all the same additions that the standard GLI had. This new Wolfsburg Edition added a beautiful Helios Blue metallic paint, 15″ BBS RA color-matched wheels, and diagonal-striped velour seats. The monochromatic exterior was quite attractive. VW made only 1,500 of these Helios Blue cars.

Over time, enthusiasts have dropped the actual name of the model and now refer to them as “Helios Edition” Jettas. This Helios has a ton of potential and is a great model for someone looking for a project. To start, the body is in great condition. The body panels all line up well and there are very few dents and dings. The roof has some substantial patina, and the new owner could choose to keep it, or may only need this one panel painted. The car has all exterior trim, and it hasn’t been modified. A very good start.

[See image gallery at www.vwvortex.com]

The interior is in pretty decent condition as well. The outside bolsters on the driver’s seat will need attention, but this is typical of cars from this era. The dash appears to be in good shape. There’s even a slick wood Nardi-style steering wheel. The seller, VWVortex member FRESH67, says the headliner is a bit rough, and the moonroof can be opened and closed by hand. This Helios Edition has power windows and mirrors, and cruise control (a $225 option in 1989). All in all, this is very solid interior.

Mechanically, the car is in good running condition. The car has fresh oil, fresh gear oil, a new oil pan gasket, new oil pump, new water pump, and a whole lot more. The speedometer cable is broken, so you’ll need to install a new one. The car has 209,000 miles. The car sits nicely on Raceland coilovers. Unfortunately, the color-matched BBS RA wheels are not present. While the polished teardrops look great, you may want to source a set of the originals and have them painted.

So if you’re looking for a limited edition Jetta, this could be the car for you. Take a look at the ad in our forums. You can see it in person in Pico Rivera California. FRESH67 is asking $2500 firm.

The post Ratty Rescue: MK2 in Rare Blue appeared first on VWVortex.



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