1973 | Volkswagen T2b Westfalia

Volkswagen introduced their ‘Type 2’ (the manufacturer’s second model) in 1950 and production ran in Germany until 1979, when the Type 3 model was introduced. Instantly recognizable to this day, they have achieved something of a cult status, given their widespread use during the ’60s and later, often associated with the surf culture from that decade.

The earliest models are referred to as ‘split screen’, referencing the windscreen style and the revised version – introduced in 1967 – the ‘bay-window’, similarly referencing a now altered windscreen design. In addition to this change, the second-generation vehicle was a little larger and heavier than the first variant; had revised suspension; 12-volt electrics and larger, more powerful engine options. In 1972, the flat-four engine was available in an enlarged 1.7 litre size, with a claimed 66 bhp available, driving through a 4-speed, manual transmission. Various cosmetic changes were also introduced in the early 1970’s, such as squared-off bumpers to meet US crash safety standards.

In the early ‘50s, Volkswagen commissioned a camper van conversion of the Type 2 and subcontracted the build of the vehicle to the company Westfalia-Werke. These ‘Westfalia’ conversions were made available worldwide through the VW dealer network and production continued until 2003 (based on the later T3 model). 

This 1973 model van was first registered in California in July 1973 and remained in the hands of a single US owner until 2007. As a well-maintained and largely rot-free import, it was re-registered in the UK in July 2008 and, in the hands of its new owners, underwent a substantial professional renovation at marque experts Autostyl, Truro, Cornwall. In 2011, the fully restored vehicle was featured in the September edition of VolksWorld Camper & Bus magazine. In May 2013 the Westfalia was purchased by a Jersey-based owner and has only been lightly used since.

The vehicle has been well-maintained throughout its life in the US – there are substantial service history records on file. The engine received considerable work in 2004 and has not clocked up a high mileage since that time. The engine bay was refinished as part of the renovation work completed following import to the UK. Mechanically, it’s in very good condition and all running as it should.

In respect of the bodywork, the extensive renovation work carried out in 2008 - 2009 comprised fully stripping the van, the completion of dent & corrosion repairs retaining the original panels and a full respray of the vehicle in its original orange colour scheme. At that time, new replica Fuchs alloy wheels were fitted. The Westfalia remains in excellent condition, having been used sparingly and only in the dry since its move to Jersey.

The interior of the van was completely stripped as part of the post-import renovation and any repair/replacement work completed as required. The seating was wholly re-trimmed in white leather and the cabin is in first-class condition.

This is a particularly smart, well-kept VW Westfalia in an excellent and very usable condition. There are extensive records of the vehicles early life and the renovation works carried out on import to the UK.

The van is currently Jersey registered and the registration number is not included in sale. We can ship worldwide and can assist with shipping and importation processes if required.