Beschreibung
A very rare motorcaravan being on the Mercedes MB1000 2. 4D chassis. These were never exported when new (hence all are LHD) and are built like tanks. Half a million miles is not unheard of on these engines and the cambelt free design makes it a wise option against a present day, cambelt eating, electric everything, dealer orientated rip-off (£1500 to replace the red 'management key' on some). The timing chains on these are good for 200000+ miles (and even then they only rattle). They are also economical to run (30mpg) and are of the right power/ strength to carry the Karmann body (unlike the VW LT option which is underpowered and fragile). The compact 17. 8ft length body is also nice to drive and easy to park as there is power steering and a 5 speed manual gearbox. The Karmann Reismobile is regarded by many as one of the best motorcaravans ever made, and their new price (£20000+ in 1989) reflects this. The quality of design and construction, the use of superior materials (hardwood interior etc) and the high specification would put this in the £40000+ price range if new today.
This completely original van (exterior paint work and interior furnishings are all from the factory) has only had 2 UK owners since imported in 2000. It has always been garaged which has kept it in such an excellent original condition. The genuine mileage of 33528 (53959 km) means its bomb proof diesel engine has barely been run in. The original unused Mercedes Benz first aid kit is still in its storage area in the passenger compartment. It has been taxed as disabled class since we have owned it (8 years). It has been used for classic car shows and weekend fishing trips but really not much else. It has always been regularly serviced and pampered.
The complete detailed specification is too large to list here but this is a basic description: Kitchen with large 3 way fridge/ twin hob and sink (hot/ cold). Toilet compartment with shower/ sink. Twin two person dining sofas with removable table and factory fitted seat belts (converts into a double adult bed). Over cab bed for 2 adults or 3 children. Twin batteries with 240v hook-up. Air blown heating and gas heating. Factory fitted rear bicycle rack and removable stainless steel scooter rack. Roll out side canopy and a ladder access to the reinforced roof (lots of space for sunbathing or sightseeing).
This is a lovely Motorcaravan which could be cherished as a usable rare classic, or used as a stylish and functional holiday workhorse for a large family. It would also be ideal for a couple who need a small flat on wheels (2nd home hunting in France?). It has about the same running costs as a classic Volkswagen air cooled but is much more reliable and comfortable. Genuine Mercedes parts are cheap (virtually every school/ airport/ council bus used this chassis in Germany, and many still do). They are not road burners (cruise happily at 60-70 mph), but have a huge torque for getting you out of badly surfaced campsites.
All paperwork and booklets have been kept. It has just sailed through a new MOT. You can insure this type of van very cheaply via a classic broker, with breakdown cover in europe usually included.
This is a very reluctant sale but increased disability now makes it impractical. A very cute and practical folding electric bike (brand new and boxed) will be given to the next owner FOC, as we will not be needing it now.
Please email me if you need any further details.
PS: There is a Mercedes badge on the front grill. They are a dark bronze colour on these commercials, not silver like the cars. The photo is not recording this well.
