1969 Volkswagen T2 Westfalia

Starting in 1951, VW offered an officially sanctioned camper conversion by Westfalia-werke of Franz Knobel & Sohne in Rheda-Wiedenbruck, Germany. Interiors were panelled in birch plywood and standard equipment included screened jalousie windows, a laminated folding table, storage cabinets, an ice box and electrical hook ups. Some models included a sink and pressure water system. A number of fold out seat arrangements provided sleeping accommodation. Optional equipment included a pop up roof section, awnings and side tents, a chemical toilet, camping equipment, even a child's crib in the driver cab and a small map table

We are informed by the vendor that this particular 1969 Westfalia was kept in storage in California for 20 years before being imported into the UK in 2010. Finished in Montana Red & White it has never been welded thanks to the warm Californian climate, recent work includes new brakes, shockers, door rubbers, battery, tyres, roof rubbers, wooden roof lining, heavy duty flooring, steering box, seat covers, roof canvas, door panels and curtains, all the wheels and bumpers have been powder coated in silver. Importantly it is the condition of the van with its solid floor pans and a large amount of its original features still intact that make this a fantastic example of VWs iconic Camper.

Interestingly we are told that a brand new 1600cc engine has been fitted and has only done 3500 miles however there is no paperwork to substantiate this. Certainly the drive train performs admirably with no cause for concern whatsoever. The steering is a delight, the long gear shifter with its mechanical clunk click action is simplicity itself and the lightness of the controls is a real surprise.

Fitted with a double rock'n' roll bed, roof bunk & front hammock bed, this little campervan also makes a for a sound financial investment that will always hold its value well, try and find another one as rock solid as this one, no restoration is required, sold with an MOT until March 2014 it just needs to be driven and enjoyed.