This 1996 Volkswagen Polo Harlekin is a rare and highly customized example of one of VW’s most iconic and playful special editions. Originally sold in Germany and later brought to Belgium, the car was purchased by the current owner in 2019 and underwent a thorough restoration, including rust repair and replacement of numerous parts to bring it back to its original Harlekin glory.

While originally equipped with a modest 1.0L engine, the owner opted for a more spirited powerplant, swapping in a 1.4-16V AFH engine from a Polo 6N—an engine known for its Volkswagen Motorsport cylinder head and lively 101-horsepower output, often outperforming period GTI models. The engine was fully overhauled by HE-Services in the Netherlands, with all essential maintenance parts replaced, including a new clutch, timing belt, water pump, spark plugs, filters, throttle body, radiator, and more.

Enhancements to the engine setup include a Polo 6N GTI intake manifold, Epytec lightweight flywheel, BMC intake, custom catch can system, Friedrichs stainless steel exhaust manifold with a full Friedrichs system, and an estimated output of 115 horsepower. The car has never been dyno-tested, but the owner describes it as “plenty fast.”

The gearbox was also fully rebuilt by Dutch specialist Kees Looijestein, featuring revised gear ratios tailored to the 16V engine and a longer fifth gear for better cruising efficiency—yielding approximately 2,200 RPM at 100 km/h and 3,000 RPM at 140 km/h. Braking has been upgraded to the 16V setup with new ATE-calipers, grooved discs, and performance pads.

Beyond the mechanical upgrades, the Polo has received an extensive list of modifications while maintaining its core Harlekin identity. These include a mix of rare and period-correct parts such as a Polo Colour Concept interior with matching four-color door panels, Hella Colour Magic blue taillights, Fifft red indicators, a Morette grille with auxiliary lights, a Polo 6N2 GTI rear spoiler and front bumper lip, and a fully reupholstered black headliner and pillar trim. The steering wheel has been professionally sprayed in the four Harlekin colors, and custom floor mats feature multi-color stitching.

Other features include electric windows, power-adjustable mirrors, fog lights, central locking, and a Pioneer audio system with an active subwoofer and four Pioneer speakers. Seat heating is installed, though the driver’s heating mat requires replacement. The car retains its original ABS system components for authenticity, though ABS itself is not functional due to the donor vehicle lacking the system.

The Polo is offered with two keys, maintenance booklets, and a folder filled with service records. The most recent service was completed at 288,304 km (February 2025), with Castrol Magnatec oil consistently used. The car currently sits at 288,418 km on the chassis, with the rebuilt engine and gearbox having covered approximately 10,000 km since their overhaul.

This Harlekin is sold with a catalytic converter installed (swappable for emissions purposes with the middle silencer) and even retains its original blue steering wheel. The car is located in the Netherlands, with export papers and shipping available upon request.