Gol Weekend: Paint It Black (And White)

Before you read this article, go back and read the History of the Gol (Partes Um and Dois). Really, go. Now that you’ve read this icon’s history you are better prepared to opine on what lies ahead. In celebration of the model’s 30th anniversary, Volkswagen do Brasil has launched a commemorative version of the Gol. VW is calling it “Vintage”. What is it? Simply the most expensive Gol in history.

The Vintage can be yours for R$52,180 (US$30,694 at R$1.7=US$1). That makes it the most expensive Gol ever. Any and all changes to the car are all esthetic. What makes it different then is the special decoration from the factory. Plus, in hopes that Jack Baruth will go for it, VW throws in a Stratocaster guitar to sweeten the deal. Weirdly though you only get the guitar 30 days after buying the car.

Even the colors of this Gol are as vintage as 19th century porn: Black & white. The car it mostly white. The roof is painted black. There are black stripes at the bottom of the doors, hood and hatch. Internally, the seats are covered in black and white leather (with white stitching) as are the door panels. The instruments are lighted by exclusive LEDs. White plastic also decorates such details and door handles and gearstick. Think of it as the Gol Pierre Cardin Special with VW saving the money for Pierre Cardin, and you’ve got it.

Brazilian mag Quatro-Rodas says the special alloy rims are 16 inchers painted in white. Competing mag Auto-Esporte says the wheels are 17 inchers and are painted black. As you can see from the pictures, they are both right.

Now (you’ve read the History, right?) only 30 of these will be made and sold. At selected dealers throughout the nation. Through special order. Keep in mind that the Gol has sold more than 6 million units in its 30 year history. It’s as Brazilian as beautiful women, palm trees and caipirinha. I called a couple of dealers in my hometown and finally found one that said he would be selling the car. I told him I had a check for R$52,180 and would be willing to go to the store and make the order today. He squirmed a little and said that we’d need to talk. I said I wouldn’t increase my offer and he insisted that I go down and talk.

Unfortunately, I don’t have that cash at the moment. If I did buy the car would I be making an investment that would pay off handsomely in future? Or is Volkswagen offering fool’s gold for a king’s ransom?

Anyway, if the price wasn’t so rich I’d say kudos, VW. You made a tastefully decorated car for a model that deserves the celebration. If it weren’t so expensive.