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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.
What is a VW Vanagon?
A VW Vanagon is a rear-engined, rear-wheel drive van that is part of the Volkswagen Transporter series. 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.
What Years Were Vanagon Made?
The Vanagon was manufactured from 1979 to 1992.
What is the Difference Between VW Bus and Vanagon?
The main difference between a VW Bus and a Vanagon lies in their generations and design characteristics. The VW Bus encompasses multiple generations, while the Vanagon specifically refers to the third generation (T3) of the Type 2 series.
The T1 Bus was the first generation, produced from the late 1940s until 1967. It is commonly called the Microbus or Split Screen due to its distinctive split windshield and rounded body shape.
The T2 Bus was the second generation, produced from 1967 to 1979. It is often referred to as the Bay Window because of its larger, single-piece windshield with a rounded shape.
The T3 Vanagon is the third generation, introduced in 1979 and manufactured until 1992. The design of the Vanagon underwent significant changes compared to the earlier VW Bus models. The Vanagon features a more squared-off design compared to the earlier Bus models that had a curved body design. The Vanagon has a rear-engine layout, where the engine is located in the back of the vehicle, providing more interior space and improved weight distribution. In contrast, earlier VW Buses had the engine located in the rear, but it was positioned partially behind the rear axle. The Vanagon also features a more modern and refined suspension system, offering improved handling and ride comfort compared to the older VW Bus models. The interior layout of the Vanagon was redesigned for increased functionality and comfort, with improved seating arrangements, storage options, and amenities.
The T1 Bus was the first generation, produced from the late 1940s until 1967. It is commonly called the Microbus or Split Screen due to its distinctive split windshield and rounded body shape.
The T2 Bus was the second generation, produced from 1967 to 1979. It is often referred to as the Bay Window because of its larger, single-piece windshield with a rounded shape.
The T3 Vanagon is the third generation, introduced in 1979 and manufactured until 1992. The design of the Vanagon underwent significant changes compared to the earlier VW Bus models. The Vanagon features a more squared-off design compared to the earlier Bus models that had a curved body design. The Vanagon has a rear-engine layout, where the engine is located in the back of the vehicle, providing more interior space and improved weight distribution. In contrast, earlier VW Buses had the engine located in the rear, but it was positioned partially behind the rear axle. The Vanagon also features a more modern and refined suspension system, offering improved handling and ride comfort compared to the older VW Bus models. The interior layout of the Vanagon was redesigned for increased functionality and comfort, with improved seating arrangements, storage options, and amenities.
What is the Difference Between a Westfalia Bus and a Westfalia Vanagon?
The Westfalia conversions on T1 and T2 VW Buses were typically done by the Westfalia company and involved adding various camping amenities to the existing bus model. These conversions were available in different layouts and configurations. The Westfalia conversions typically offered a fold-out bed, a small kitchenette or icebox, and storage cabinets. Some models also had options for a portable toilet, a table, and additional camping accessories.
The Vanagon Westfalia conversions provided a more refined camping experience. They typically included a pop-up roof with a sleeping loft, a rear bench seat that could convert into a bed, a compact kitchenette with a stove, sink, and refrigerator, and various storage compartments. Some models also had a small dining table and additional optional features such as an onboard water tank, a heater, and even a shower.
The Vanagon Westfalia conversions provided a more refined camping experience. They typically included a pop-up roof with a sleeping loft, a rear bench seat that could convert into a bed, a compact kitchenette with a stove, sink, and refrigerator, and various storage compartments. Some models also had a small dining table and additional optional features such as an onboard water tank, a heater, and even a shower.
What are the Different Body Styles of Vanagon?
Passenger Van - The passenger van variant of the Vanagon was designed to utilize the interior space to maximize the number of passengers it could carry. It typically features multiple rows of seats and side windows for passenger visibility. Depending on the configuration, it can accommodate up to nine passengers.
Panel Van - The panel van version of the Vanagon is primarily focused on utility and cargo carrying capacity. It lacks side windows in the cargo area, providing a more enclosed space for transporting goods or equipment. Panel vans are often used for commercial purposes or as a base for camper van conversions.
Westfalia Camper - The Westfalia camper van is a highly popular and sought-after variant of the Vanagon. It is equipped with a camper conversion by the Westfalia company. These conversions typically include a pop-up roof, a small kitchenette with a stove, sink, and refrigerator, fold-out beds, and storage cabinets. Westfalia campers are designed to provide comfortable sleeping and living accommodations for camping and road trips.
Weekender - The Weekender model is a simplified version of the Westfalia camper. It features a pop-up roof for additional headroom and a rear bench seat that can be converted into a bed. The Weekender does not have a built-in kitchenette or other camper-specific amenities. It offers a more versatile layout, allowing for seating during the day and sleeping arrangements at night.
Syncro - The Syncro refers to the four-wheel drive version of the Vanagon. These models feature a 4WD system that provides improved traction and off-road capabilities. Syncro Vanagons are sought after by outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers who require enhanced mobility and all-terrain capabilities.
Panel Van - The panel van version of the Vanagon is primarily focused on utility and cargo carrying capacity. It lacks side windows in the cargo area, providing a more enclosed space for transporting goods or equipment. Panel vans are often used for commercial purposes or as a base for camper van conversions.
Westfalia Camper - The Westfalia camper van is a highly popular and sought-after variant of the Vanagon. It is equipped with a camper conversion by the Westfalia company. These conversions typically include a pop-up roof, a small kitchenette with a stove, sink, and refrigerator, fold-out beds, and storage cabinets. Westfalia campers are designed to provide comfortable sleeping and living accommodations for camping and road trips.
Weekender - The Weekender model is a simplified version of the Westfalia camper. It features a pop-up roof for additional headroom and a rear bench seat that can be converted into a bed. The Weekender does not have a built-in kitchenette or other camper-specific amenities. It offers a more versatile layout, allowing for seating during the day and sleeping arrangements at night.
Syncro - The Syncro refers to the four-wheel drive version of the Vanagon. These models feature a 4WD system that provides improved traction and off-road capabilities. Syncro Vanagons are sought after by outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers who require enhanced mobility and all-terrain capabilities.
Can the Vanagon Tow?
Yes, the Volkswagen Vanagon is capable of towing, but the towing capacity can vary depending on the specific model, engine, and configuration.
Generally, the Vanagon has a towing capacity ranging from 1,500 - 2,000 pounds. However if you're considering towing with a Vanagon, it's advisable to consult with a trusted mechanic or towing professional who can provide specific recommendations based on your vehicle's specifications and towing requirements.
Generally, the Vanagon has a towing capacity ranging from 1,500 - 2,000 pounds. However if you're considering towing with a Vanagon, it's advisable to consult with a trusted mechanic or towing professional who can provide specific recommendations based on your vehicle's specifications and towing requirements.
How Reliable are Vanagons?
The reliability of a Vanagon can depend on various factors, including its condition, maintenance history, and usage. Overall, Vanagons are generally known for their durability and longevity, but they do require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly.
Vanagons, especially those with camper conversions, have more complex systems compared to standard passenger vehicles. This complexity can increase the likelihood of mechanical or electrical issues. The camper-specific features like the pop-up roof, kitchenette, and other amenities may require additional maintenance and care.
Vanagons, especially those with camper conversions, have more complex systems compared to standard passenger vehicles. This complexity can increase the likelihood of mechanical or electrical issues. The camper-specific features like the pop-up roof, kitchenette, and other amenities may require additional maintenance and care.
What Should You Look For When Buying a VW Bus?
When purchasing a Vanagon the first thing you should do is inspect the vehicle. These are the things to look for:
VIN Number - The longevity of production with few major changes, paired with the interchangeability of VW parts can make identifying your classic Volkswagen a challenge. The only sure-fire way to identify your VW is by checking the VIN.
Major Rust - Surface rust will happen at any bare metal spot on metal and is not the end of a restoration project. However, major rust is deeper in the metal and will bubble, flake or completely "eat" away metal. Major rust may indicate a previously repaired accident or other body damage.
Body Condition - When buying a VW we are MOST concerned with the body shell itself first and foremost. Fenders, hoods, seats, wheels, engines and transmissions, doors, bumpers and all the other parts bolted to the car can be changed. The body is the foundation and we will always look for the best foundation possible. Look for overall fit and operation of body parts like creases and folds, cracking paint, door gaps, and fender to tire clearance from one side to the other. Where some misalignment is common, too much can be an indicator of a bad accident.
VIN Number - The longevity of production with few major changes, paired with the interchangeability of VW parts can make identifying your classic Volkswagen a challenge. The only sure-fire way to identify your VW is by checking the VIN.
Major Rust - Surface rust will happen at any bare metal spot on metal and is not the end of a restoration project. However, major rust is deeper in the metal and will bubble, flake or completely "eat" away metal. Major rust may indicate a previously repaired accident or other body damage.
Body Condition - When buying a VW we are MOST concerned with the body shell itself first and foremost. Fenders, hoods, seats, wheels, engines and transmissions, doors, bumpers and all the other parts bolted to the car can be changed. The body is the foundation and we will always look for the best foundation possible. Look for overall fit and operation of body parts like creases and folds, cracking paint, door gaps, and fender to tire clearance from one side to the other. Where some misalignment is common, too much can be an indicator of a bad accident.
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