Description
Known officially as the Volkswagen Type 2 and depending on body type, either as a Transporter, Kombi or Microbus, this VW was also known informally as the Bus in the US and Camper in the UK. Introduced in 1950 as Volkswagen’s second car model, it was derived from their first, the Beetle, which was designated the Type 1. This second-generation Type 2 lost its distinctive split front windscreen and was slightly larger and considerably heavier than its predecessor. Its common nickname is ‘Bay-window’ or Bay for short.
The new model also did away with the swing axle rear suspension and transfer boxes previously used to raise ride height. Instead, half-shafts were fitted with constant velocity joints. The updated Bus transaxle is usually sought after by off-road racers using air-cooled Volkswagen components. Brazil contained the last factory in the world that produced the T2. Production in Brazil ceased on 31st December 2013 due to the introduction of more stringent safety regulations, thus marking the end of an era with the rear-engine Volkswagens which first originated in 1935.
Registered in 1971, this delightful Camper has benefitted from a great deal of investment recently. The car has been subject to a respray, and has most recently been fitted with new furniture and new leather interior. Mechanically excellent, both engine and transmission perform as they should. It is easy to see why these splendid vehicles have such a following, this one represents excellent value for money and just in time for the big rollers coming in on the Devon coast.
