2003 Volkswagen Golf R32 Manual

Highlights

• Lovely example of a standard R32

• Iconic Deep Blue Pearl

• Konig black leather

• Six-speed manual 

• Huge service history file

Overview

When the Mk 4 Golf appeared in 1997 it quickly became regarded as one of the best mid-sized hatchbacks of its era – comfortable, beautifully finished and with an upmarket aura, it was unsurprisingly a very strong seller. 

But there was one setback for PHers: no successor to the legendary VR6. Luckily, the answer to our concerns came along in late 2002 more than four years after the MK4’s debut, in the form of the R32 – which used a new 3.2-litre version of VW’s VR6 engine and had 240hp, along with four-wheel-drive and a choice of six-speed manual or all new DSG semi-auto transmissions. It was comprehensively reengineered, with far sharper steering, tenacious grip and stunning performance. It was worth the wait. 

Whereas other MK4s were lovely to sit in and nicely finished, the R32 injected a much-needed dose of extra excitement, topped off by a sonorous exhaust note that really made the most of its lush 3.2-litre V6. It very quickly became a very desirable thing, as happy doing track days as it was touring the continent. A car with two distinct personalities, both of which it excelled at projecting. 

This one is a 2003 car in the iconic Deep Blue Pearl launch colour and is the more desirable six-speed manual model. It’s a lovely, unspoilt and unmodified car that would make the perfect addition to a collection, with two stamped service books and a pile of invoices that goes back to when the car was nearly new. 

That’s pretty unusual for an R32, but this one has clearly been a well-loved and cherished car – we don’t doubt for a second that you’ll love it, too.

History and documentation

• First registered on 11 September 2003 and supplied new by Central Motors of Grangemouth

• UK V5C in the current owner’s name

• MOT until 27 November, 2025 – no advisory notes

• Two keys

• Service history stamps as follows: 17,128 miles (2005, main dealer); 30,035 miles (2007, main dealer); 41,873 miles (2009, independent); 50,826 miles (2011, independent); 56,597 miles (2013, independent); 63,250 miles (2015, independent); 73,010 miles (2018, independent); 74,143 miles (2020, independent); 75,325 miles (2020, independent); 78,401 miles (2021, specialist); 80,193 miles (2021, specialist); 82,720 miles (2022, specialist); 86,896 miles (2023, specialist); 88,896 miles (2024, specialist); 89,342 miles (2025, BMW main dealer)

• Large file of invoices including one in the past 10,000 miles for a Haldex service

• Original book pack, first aid kit and tool kit

Interior

• Figure-hugging black Konig sports seats in good condition

• Driver’s side seat bolster has had a small, stitched repair

• Cabin is in superb condition overall

• Three-spoke ‘R’ steering wheel

• 4MOTION gearknob

• Tailored floor mats

• Climatronic climate control

• Modern Sony Double-DIN stereo with smartphone integration

• Spotless luggage bay

• Very good carpets, door trims and headlining

Exterior

• Striking Deep Blue Pearl Metallic

• Fantastic overall condition with no damage or dents

• No evidence of any external corrosion

• Underside looks superb, with original Volkswagen racing suspension

• The vendor reports that there are some small stone chips on the bonnet and front end

• Alloy wheels in excellent condition with Maxxis tyres showing around 6mm of tread

• Unmodified, with original body kit, front splitter and tailgate spoiler

• Recently freshly detailed with a 12-month ceramic coating

Mechanical

• 3.2-litre normally aspirated V6

• 240bhp

• 0-60mph in 6.4 seconds/155mph top speed

• Six-speed manual transmission

• Serviced frequently in recent years, sometimes with less than 2,000 miles between inspections

• Haldex 4WD system in good working order

• According to the vendor, the car drives without fault

Summary

The Volkswagen scene is huge, and with that comes an entire industry built up around modifying and altering the company’s cars. That’s fine, of course – we all like different things, and an entirely personalised car is a unique way of expressing yourself. It also means, though, that completely standard and unmodified performance Golfs are few and far between.

That makes this car all the more desirable. It’s pretty much as it left the factory, and it’s presented in fantastic condition inside and out. You’ll struggle to find a better or more genuine example.

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Earls Barton, Northants.