Registration: E773 EPP
Chassis: WVWZZZ80ZJW152088
Odometer: 75,900
Transmission: Manual
MOT: July 2027

• Desirable pre-facelift Mk2 Polo ‘Breadvan’
• Reported to have benefited from considerable expenditure over the years
• Fitted with a 5 speed, manual gearbox, adding considerably to the driving experience

There is something wonderfully nostalgic about an early Volkswagen Polo, and the distinctive square-backed Mk2 has developed a character all of its own. Affectionately known in the UK as the ‘Breadvan’, its upright rear body gave Volkswagen's smallest model surprisingly useful carrying capacity while creating one of the most recognisable supermini shapes of the 1980s. Volkswagen introduced the second-generation Polo in 1981, describing the square-backed version as a small two-door estate, and the generation would remain in production until 1994.

Dating from 1988, this is a pre-facelift example finished in red and showing 75,900 miles. It is very much an honest, usable classic rather than an over-restored show car and, importantly, has been enthusiast owned. The vendor advises that plenty of money has been spent maintaining the Polo over the years, and it is said to drive particularly well.

The bodywork presents well overall for a car now approaching 40 years old, retaining the simple lines, round headlights and slim bumpers of the earlier Mk2. There are naturally areas showing its age, including various marks and blemishes to the paintwork, scuffing around the rear bumper and some localised deterioration around the rear wheelarch/fuel-filler area. There is also a crack to the windscreen which will require attention. A custom front grille has been fitted, while the car sits on a set of attractive period-style cross-spoke alloy wheels.

Inside, the Polo retains a refreshingly simple 1980s Volkswagen cabin. The grey patterned cloth seats present respectably overall, although there is some wear to the driver's seat bolster, while the dashboard, door cards and headlining appear generally tidy for their age. The straightforward analogue instruments and manual window winders are a reminder of just how uncomplicated small cars once were.

The second-generation Polo was designed around simplicity and low weight, with Volkswagen quoting just 770kg for the basic version. The distinctive steep-tail body also provided increased rear headroom, helping make these little cars remarkably practical despite their modest external dimensions.

Mechanically, this example is described as driving really well and carries an MOT through to July 2027. Its enthusiast ownership and reported expenditure over the years are encouraging, while the visible cosmetic imperfections mean it remains the sort of classic that can be used and enjoyed without the worries associated with something freshly restored.

As everyday cars of this generation have disappeared from British roads, surviving Mk2 Polos have become an increasingly charming reminder of Volkswagen's 1980s range. With its unmistakable Breadvan profile, bright red paintwork and period-style wheels, this car has plenty of personality and offers an appealing entry into usable modern-classic ownership.