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1979 VW Rabbit 1.5 Diesel 5-Speed - $4,000 (Fernley, NV)
1979
VW Rabbit
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I bought the car as a fun project, and did drive it home from where I purchased it, although it did have a diesel injection pump leak. I have since swapped the injection pump for a rebuilt one from VW Parts Place ($849.95 and can provide receipt if requested). I also changed out the timing belt, tensioner and alternator belt; I considered changing the water pump, but the current one is still good so I have a new pump in the box for when it's necessary. I replaced cylinder #1 and #3 injectors due to leakage.
As much as I would love to keep it, I currently have two other projects in my garage that need my attention and of course money. These little Rabbits are becoming more difficult to find. The interior looks good, and I have a new dash overlay that is not installed. The front seats are in need of some padding work. It does drip some oil, which I believe is coming from the oil pan. I believe that gasket is less than $10 from rock auto. I just completed an oil and filter change.
I installed new springs and struts up front. New rear struts in back (factory springs). It sags a little in the back due to the factory springs. I was hoping the front would settle more, and they may over time. It needs an alignment since the suspension update. I also have a tote full of stuff that goes with it.
I'm sure there are things I'm missing. I have well over $6k into this project, which means a loss on my end. Unfortunately, the car is not in the condition to recover my costs, but is still a very neat and rare VW. It also has the potential to be a very economical daily, with some reporting over 50mpg on this little 1.5L. Don't be fooled, though not a GTI, it's faster than a Mirage.