1987 Volkswagen Cabriolet Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Expert review
The Volkswagen Cabriolet is a fun, cheap, but not particularly quick, convertible with a ton of potential.
The Volkswagen Cabriolet is often maligned as a “cheerleader’s car.” Cheerleaders must know a lot more about cars than the general public because these lightweight little convertibles are about the most fun you can have in the moderately-priced subcompact-car segment. VW had a reputation for building solid cabriolets from the time of the Beetle, and this car was a good extension of that history. Nimble, well-built, open-air cruising isn’t something 1987 was known for until this car came along.
out of 10 expert review
Look & feel
Performance
Form & function
Technology
Safety
Safety is a relative term. The 1987 Volkswagen Cabriolet is safer than, say, riding a motorcycle. It has basic safety features such as a padded dash, a collapsible steering column, crumple zones, energy-absorbing bumpers, and three-point safety belts. It also had an imposing roll bar that is concealed until the top came down. But features like airbags, adaptive cruise control, and collision-avoidance technologies were years in the distance when the 1987 Cabriolet debuted.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced 11 complaints regarding the Volkswagen Cabriolet, but none of those complaints affected more than one car. NHTSA currently offers no safety rating for the car, and neither does the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Cost-effectiveness
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 1987 Volkswagen Cabriolet seem to enjoy the fun driving experience and classic charm it offers. Many appreciate its good fuel efficiency and sporty handling, making it a great choice for weekend drives. However, some drivers have reported issues like roof leaks and occasional repair challenges, particularly with older models. While it may not be the best option for everyday use or long trips, it is often praised for its distinctive looks and enjoyable driving experience."
I have had the car for three years now and it has been the best investment I've made in a long time. Very dependable and fun to drive, great gas mileage and a real head turner! This auto is a keeper.
July 25, 2011Very durable car that i would like to keep forever. With 300K miles on it still runs strong, solid body and suspension, 25-30 mpg. A true classic car in the making just like the iconic VW Beetle. An outstanding testament to German engineering.
February 13, 200931 mpg overall, quick and nimble, cruises at 75 - 80 on the freeway. Fun for weekend road trips.
May 7, 2008What owners say
I have had the car for three years now and it has been the best investment I've made in a long time. Very dependable and fun to drive, great gas mileage and a real head turner! This auto is a keeper.
July 25, 2011Very durable car that i would like to keep forever. With 300K miles on it still runs strong, solid body and suspension, 25-30 mpg. A true classic car in the making just like the iconic VW Beetle. An outstanding testament to German engineering.
February 13, 200931 mpg overall, quick and nimble, cruises at 75 - 80 on the freeway. Fun for weekend road trips.
May 7, 2008good acceleration, not so good brakes, handling could be better, roof rattles in bad quality roads... does not need too much money to maintenance because its an old car and it parts is very cheap! I run it on TNG so I get great mileage, dont known how many exactly. great fun on summer.
December 16, 2009So solid. Everything on this car was mint and tight. Good on gas. Handled amazingly. Nothing beats leaving work, popping the top down and hitting the highway for some all natural air conditioning :D I bought this car off a dealer my Dad knows and it was a one owner! The roof was 'triple layer' and was just as warm inside as a regular car. If you ever get a Cabriolet, look for this type of top!
October 22, 2008but it leaks in each corner where my top meets the windshield
February 1, 2008Even though I have problems with the car, that at times are very frustrating; I love this car too much overall to get rid of it. Problems: Leaky seal where windows and top meet; cant find a repair shop anywhere near me who will even look at any problems I have, they all say they dont want anywhere near a old vw that it is too much of a problem car and good luck finding a mechanic (thanks...really encouraging); slow acceleration Favorite Parts: Looks get 5stars all the way! for the age of the car I get really good gas mileage (23 around town); handles great; feel safe and in control driving; bonus: its a fun car to drive I would recommend this car to a friend as a weekend or going to the beach car (I live at the beach so it would be a short trip). But for an everyday car or for use on long trips, I would not recommend this car.
January 25, 2012My first convertible car. This was a ton of fun in the sun. Fun to drive and fun to put the top down. Repairs on it were a little expensive with the flex pipe exhaust and problems with the cruise control. The roof did leak on the drivers seat that nothing really prevented during heavy rain.
December 30, 2008They are what they are, simple anc affordable,great fun to drive and look after.
December 30, 2007Trims & specs
Base MSRP $14,070 | Seating 4 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
