This 1981 Volkswagen Polo 86C is believed to be a one-of-one factory development prototype, finished in blue over a matching blue interior. It was built as a Steilheck USA prototype by Volkswagen AG's Research and Development Department to evaluate compliance with U.S.-market regulations, and it shows approximately 1,600 miles. It is now offered by Open Air Imports with a current MOT valid through February 2028 and a 30-photo gallery.

Production of the Polo 86C officially began in September 1981, though this example rolled off Volkswagen's Wolfsburg production line on August 3, 1981, giving it an exceptionally early production chassis number of 117. Following assembly, the car was retained by Volkswagen AG's Research and Development Department, where it was converted into a prototype. It was later sold to a Volkswagen employee, who reportedly drove the car for approximately 1,500 miles before it was acquired by the renowned Hermann Walter Museum, where it remained preserved indoors for decades.

This prototype incorporates numerous features unique to its intended American-market specification. Distinguishing equipment includes federally compliant 5-mph impact bumpers, sealed-beam headlights, a unique U.S.-market grille, front running lights, dual reversing lamps, relocated license plate lighting mounted to the tailgate, and an MPH speedometer with an OXS warning light and shift indicator. Under the hood, the 1.3-liter engine is equipped with a catalytic converter and additional emissions equipment developed specifically for the American market, and power is sent to the front wheels through a manual transmission.

The blue interior remains true to the prototype's original configuration and reflects the car's remarkably low mileage. As expected of a museum-preserved vehicle, it has accumulated a few minor dents, scratches, and isolated areas of superficial surface rust over more than four decades of storage.

The 86C was the second generation of the Polo, introduced in 1981. Volkswagen ultimately never sold the Polo in the United States, making factory American-market development prototypes like this one exceptionally rare.