Volkswagen Type 2 Motor Caravan, 1974
Volkswagen Type 2 T2
Volkswagen Type 2 T2•
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Chassis No.: 2332195425
Estimate: £50,000 - £60,000 GBP
- Classic 1970s motor caravan
- Bare-metal restoration completed in October 2018
- Fewer than 200 miles since completion
- Perfect for Goodwood and other historic motor sports venues
As readily recognisable as the immortal 'Beetle' itself and a 'cult' vehicle in its own right, the Volkswagen Type 2 and its countless derivatives enjoyed an even longer period in production than their saloon progenitor. The original was conceived in the late 1940s by a Dutch Volkswagen agent, Ben Pon, who drew up plans for a van based on the Beetle floor pan and running gear. Known as the Volkswagen Type 2 (the Beetle saloon being Type 1) the result of Pon's efforts arrived in 1950 and almost immediately proliferated into a bewildering variety of models catering for an enormous range of commercial and domestic activities.
The original retained the Beetle's rear-mounted 1,200cc air-cooled engine and four-speed gearbox, the latter suitably re-ratioed to cope with the van's greater weight. Engines grew in size and power while both handling and comfort improved as development progressed. By 1968, when the first major revision of this outstandingly successful design occurred, almost two million had been sold worldwide. The replacement, also called 'Type 2', was an entirely new vehicle, larger and roomier than before but still rear-engined.
The most obvious difference was the newcomer's single-piece wraparound windscreen, giving this model its 'Bay' sobriquet, whereupon the original, with its two-piece split screen, became know to devotees as the 'Splittie'. Power units grew in size from 1,600cc to 2.0 litres before production ceased in 1978 with the introduction of the third generation.
This highly desirable 'Bay' motor caravan is offered fresh from a comprehensive bare-metal restoration only completed in October 2018. Indeed, the vehicle has covered fewer than 200 miles since the restoration, barely enough to run the engine in. Works carried out included installing a new (1,600cc) short-engine and a complete mechanical overhaul, while the body has been refinished in Savannah Beige and white and the interior re-trimmed in white-accented tan hide.
We are advised by the private vendor that the restoration was carried out to original specification with a few appropriate 'period' additions such as chromium-plated fittings and traditional cupboards remanufactured in rosewood finish. A modern twist is the use of Designers' Guild curtain fabric in a typically 1970s pattern reflecting the vehicle's period of origin. Inside, it feels like a boutique hotel! The addition of a retro-look stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity ensures compatibility with modern communications and entertainment devices.
Presented in excellent condition, this well restored Volkswagen Type 2 motor caravan is offered with a V5C Registration Certificate and bills relating to its restoration. There can be no better way in which to enjoy the Goodwood gatherings and next summer's other historic motor sports events.
