It usually starts small. A set of wheels. Some suspension. A few parts here and there. You tell yourself you’ll keep it sensible. But for anyone who’s spent time around Volkswagens knows how that ends. For Lambertus Zingstra, it started with a Mk1 Golf. A lifelong fan of the model, he couldn’t ignore this 1982 Golf GL when it appeared for sale.

Finished in Papyrus Green and in exceptional condition, it was exactly the car he’d been looking for. The original plan was simple. Keep the 1.1-litre engine, fit wider wheels and leave the rest alone. That didn’t last long. Aside from the paintwork and engine machining, Lambertus carried out almost everything himself. And that’s something you notice immediately when standing next to the car. Nothing feels thrown together. Every part looks like it belongs.

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