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Updated 9/9/2024
The New Classic VW
The VW Vanagon is a rear-engined, rear-wheel drive van that is part of the Volkswagen Transporter series. It is the third and final generation of the Volkswagen Transporter and is known by many names. Called the Vanagon in the United States, the Caravelle in Europe, Microbus in South Africa, and T25 in the UK, its official designation is the Volkswagen Type 2 (T3).
The Vanagon provides ample space for both passengers and cargo. It was available in various configurations, including passenger vans, camper vans, and utility vans with different seating arrangements and roof options. The Vanagon is capable of towing between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds depending on the model and configuration.
Last of the Air-Cooled Volkswagens
These angular vans were among the last VW models offered with air-cooled engines, and saw use not only as consumer transportation and recreational vehicles but also in commercial, postal, and even military applications well into the 90s. Like their predecessor, these rugged little vans earned initial worldwide appeal for their versatility, and remain in the public consciousness decades later for their image of adventure, escape, and leaving the world behind!
The Vanagon saw four different factory engines over the years. Early models (1980-1983) featured the last of VW’s air-cooled engines. Later models switched to the water-cooled "Wasserboxer" engines, which became standard from 1983 until the Vanagon’s final production in 1992. The last models (1986-1991) included a 2100cc engine with Digifant fuel injection and an improved cooling system.
Best of a Van with the Best of a Station Wagon
Not all Vanagons are created equal. Most consumer Vanagon models introduced in 1980 came in three main versions: Passenger, Weekender, and Full Camper.
The Passenger models were designed for transporting passengers with minimal amenities, while the Weekender and Full Camper models converted by Westfalia offered more comfort and versatility. The Full Camper included a pop-top, bed, and kitchenette, while the Weekender provided additional seating but lacked the kitchenette and pop-top.
Vanagon Interior Layout Options
Weekender Vanagon
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Approximate Weight: 3,300 Lbs.
Height Empty: 6 Ft., 5 In.
VW Vanagon Weekender was designed to be a second car that's also capable of being a weekend getaway home. Standard equipment included a rear bench seat that converted to a king size bed, a kitchenette, and a deluxe cockpit with front seat covers, center console, and dashboard snack tray. Weekender kitchens lacked a stove or refrigerator, but came with a pantry cabinet, stainless kitchen sink, ice box, table, and galley fluorescent lighting. Your fresh and waste water tanks were powered with a manual water pump, and owners enjoyed a little extra privacy and comfort with screened windows, all-around drapes, and carpeted floors throughout. All accessories originally came wired for 110 volts with 15 Amp breaker, and you got a fire extinguisher just in case.Camper Vanagon
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Approximate Weight: 3,760 Lbs.
Height Empty: 6 Ft., 10 In.
VW Vanagon Camper was the ideal family camper van with an emphasis on sleeping capacity and efficient use of space. Volkswagen and Westfalia put their decades of experience into making the Camper a complete home away from home. Standard equipment included a pop-top penthouse, rear seat to bed conversion, full kitchenette, and deluxe cockpit with front seat covers, dashboard snack tray, and center console. Camper kitchens were originally stocked with a 12 volt/LP Gas refrigerator, 2 burner stove, pantry cabinet with a stainless steel sink, and fluorescent galley lighting. Camper fresh and waste water tanks were equipped with an electric water pump as well as a manual backup pump, and had hook-ups for city water. Your Camper's interior included carpeted floors, screened windows with all-around drapes, reading lights, and a kitchen table. All of these accessories were powered by two batteries with an isolator and a 110/12 volt converter with a built-in battery charger. You also got a fire extinguisher just in case.
Converta-Van Vanagon
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Approximate Weight: 3,268 Lbs.
Height Empty: 6 Ft., 5 In.
VW Vanagon Converta-Van could be a station wagon, family car, or an overnighter. It was an inexpensive way to seat seven or sleep two with a decent amount of comfort. Converta-Van standard equipment included a king-size split bed, 2 rear-facing jump seats, a small central table, and full carpeting. Owners could sleep in privacy with screened windows and drapes, and they also received the upgraded cockpit with front seat covers, a dashboard snack tray, and a center front console.
JBugs Helps You Live the #Vanlife
Whether you’re taking your Vanagon on an off-road adventure or restoring it to its original glory, JBugs is here to help you maintain and repair these classic vehicles. We are continuously expanding our selection of replacement Vanagon parts. Stay tuned for more updates, repair tips, and conversion ideas as we continue to support the Vanagon community. Keep your Vanagon happy and healthy with JBugs!
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