Although it lacks the striking looks of the earlier Giugiaro-styled version, this Nice Price or No Dice Scirocco stands out mechanically with its 16-valve powerplant. The catch is that the car does not run at present, leaving us to weigh if the asking price justifies the effort to revive its systems.

Pinpointing the start of the modern car era sparks debate, yet the arrival of electronic engine management, airbags, and anti-lock brakes positions the 1980s as a solid marker. That decade also marked the point when manufacturers mastered emissions controls and fuel efficiency, restoring horsepower levels.

The 1994 Ford Taurus SHO reviewed last Thursday carried roots in the 1980s despite its later build date. It displayed the era's enthusiasm plus a then-uncommon multivalve engine. Low mileage and strong condition drew interest, but the automatic transmission kept many from committing to its $9,900 price. Most voters favored a manual for maximum enjoyment, resulting in close early votes. In the end the SHO secured a slim 55 percent Nice Price approval regardless of transmission.

Here comes the power!

Our focus today falls on another 1980s model that hinted at the performance and features now standard. Volkswagen launched the Golf as its key vehicle after the original Beetle and avoided risks by turning to Italdesign-Giugiaro for styling and by releasing the Giugiaro-designed Scirocco coupe a year ahead.

Coachbuilder Karmann produced the Scirocco, which succeeded until the more affordable and practical Golf GTI overshadowed it and became the face of the hot hatch segment. Both models, along with most other VW offerings from the 1970s, carried names drawn from winds worldwide.

For the Scirocco refresh Volkswagen retained Karmann production but handled the redesign internally. The second-generation car, represented here by the 1984 Scirocco 16V, falls short of its predecessor's iconic appearance yet improves in nearly every functional area. Among 1980s Sciroccos the 16V stands as the preferred choice. Originally developed by tuner Oettinger, the 16-valve cylinder head raised output of the 1.8-liter four from 90 to 123 horsepower, and this example pairs it with a five-speed manual.

A promising prospect

All would be celebration if the car actually ran. The listing instead marks it non-operational without any detail on the issue. That absence raises concern because numerous faults could prevent starting, and troubleshooting an older vehicle often proves challenging.

Setting aside the negatives, several strengths emerge. The EA827 engine remains durable and straightforward to service unless the bottom end fails dramatically. It is also a non-interference design, protecting the valves should the timing belt prove faulty.

Additional advantages include modest mileage at 96,900 and solid overall presentation. Prior listings noted the car spent most of its life in Texas, resulting in welcome rust-free condition. Those earlier ads included a parts car, though the current Craigslist post omits any mention of it.

Appearing fresh?

The earlier eBay auction carried a higher price yet the same non-running status. The car gained notice on Barn Finds last June, where it was viewed as a restoration candidate or a survivor-class showpiece. That coverage indicated the seller suspected an electrical fault but had not diagnosed it fully.

The Craigslist ad describes the condition as like new, a claim that overstates the case. While the car looks complete and structurally sound, no buyer in period would have seen it on a showroom floor and called it pristine.

Positives include a clean title and Mars Red paint that complements the body lines effectively.

Ready for a quick sale?

Non-runners usually deter most buyers who lack the curiosity to investigate under the hood. Still, this 1980s icon and its $4,999 price merit consideration. The dealer clearly wants it moved and has tried since early summer to sell at a profit based on the earlier listing trail.

Does the car represent a worthwhile project given its age and background? Does the $4,999 figure seem fair? Would inclusion of the rumored parts car change the equation? Or does this non-running Scirocco belong with another owner?

The choice rests with you.

Myrtle Beach, Florida, Craigslist listing.

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