The Type 2 Volkswagen needs little in the way of an introduction. Named as such due to it being the second vehicle ever produced by Volkswagen, the Type 2 was designed to offer versatile, reliable mobility for the masses. It could be had as a van, as a minibus, as a crew cab, as a pickup and most popularly of all, a camper. Initially a split-screen design, the Type 2 would go on to evolve into what we have here, the ‘bay window’ version. It was a bit bigger, had better visibility, and it was slightly more spacious inside. 

This example has been well cared for and comes with a good history of servicing and maintenance. Perfect for events or for wedding hire, this charming camper is ready and raring to go.

Before moving to Yorkshire (where it has covered fewer than 1000 miles a year), this breezy pink and white ‘Bay Window’ camper lived in the warmer climbs of the south coast. 

Presently arrayed as a wedding car, it is ready to go straight back into service, or, with little or no conversion, can simply be used as a summer tourer. That will just depend on how flamboyant you like your camper vans to be. 

The vehicle was stripped back to bare metal and then built back up, meaning this lovely little camper presents very well. There is also a log of some of the servicing/light renovation done on the bus, including a brake refurbish in 2018 and an inspection and service in 2019.

With its virtually new chrome bumpers, oversized VW badge and pink and white paintwork, this T2 exudes a bright and breezy persona. The overall impression of the bodywork is good; no ripples or dents in the panels and the doors fit snugly. That big side door opens smoothly too.

The paint finish has a good gloss, though you will find some small untidy areas, such as on the seam of the driver’s side A-pillar where there is some bubbling under the paint. Some lower edges are not so well painted too. However, the chrome looks quite smart - particularly the bumpers and the hub caps. Of course, there are some minor blemishes and small amounts of pitting from age, but nothing that would concern us.

Up top, the rain gutters look good and the vinyl roof is in nice condition. The mesh sun visor has a small hole at one side, but is still a nice feature.

The seats, trimmed lilac and white in the rear and white with lilac piping in the front, are all in good condition with no rips or stains, and no creasing to speak of. The pink and white dash is a little faded and the steering wheel/column chipped, but this isn’t going to spoil the ambience or the experience. 

The inside walls of the minibus are chipped in places, and the headlining could do with a clean, though it does not sag. Underfoot, the sparkly purple carpet extends into the rear compartment, where there is a champagne cooler and a working bubble machine.

The interior has a light-hearted, airy feel, but could perhaps do with a slight refresh. Nevertheless, this quirky camper is ready to go as-is.

Looking underneath, the chassis looks very sound. The main rails, cross members and outriggers all appear robust. The body floor also appears sound. Remember too that there was some renovation work to the underside in 2017 - bulkheads replaced and other welding done.

There is some surface rust along some edges and also on steering components, but both these and the suspension components look to be in very good working order.

The battery and electrical system have also been upgraded to 12 volts, making it far more modern and usable. 

The 1,600cc engine appears tidy enough, showing no signs of significant leaks. There is some paint overspray on one or two components but noting that would in any way hinder the motor’s performance.  H/T leads, belts and hoses look healthy, showing no signs of cracking or perishing. The vendor tells us that they have replaced all the fuel hoses and lines in the last year too.

Volkswagen's Bay Window camper, in all its forms, has a devoted and enthusiastic following. This example has had some significant work carried out, has been kept in dry storage for the past year and is finished in an unusual and eye-catching manner, making it perfect for wedding hire and events. Or you could simply use it as a camper! Whatever the case, it's sure to bring a dose of cheer wherever it goes.