I've dealt with this on my Corrado before, and it looks like my Vanagons
(especially the 86 Syncro, aka the GoldBrick) are susceptible as well.

Volkswagen made continuous changes to the model(s) throughout the production
life. Many clean distinctions correspond to model years. However, sometimes,
things aren't so clear cut, and some models may have features from earlier
years that got changed during the current model year...but after your
particuliar car was manufactured.

For instance. 93 Corrados were the models that got the distributerless
ignition. Yet, >MY< 93 has a distributer. Similarly, it took me a while of
poking around to realize that the GoldBricks coolant/heater lines are MOSTLY
(but not entirely) the same as the 85 models, despite it being an "86".

In the GoldBrick the main coolant lines to the radiator are plastic (86 and
later feature), but the "crossover" heater line from the left side of the
engine to the t under the right rear passenger area on my 86 is a hose.
Everything piece of documentation I look at shows that it is "supposed" to be
a pipe that has short hoses to connect to the engine and t. Needless to say
this has caused endless frustration in finding the "correct" replacement.

Yep, the GoldBrick was manufactured in August of 85 (the very beginning of
the "86" model year). It is a Syncro (which was introduced with the "86s") so
it definitely isn't an "85".

Just something to remember when others are looking at your transport with a
cocked head. :)