Description
1978 VW Bay Window Westfalia – Genuine Westfalia / Restoration Project
£9, 500 ONO
I’m reluctantly offering for sale my 1978 VW Bay Window Westfalia, a genuine old-school camper with plenty of character and a great opportunity for someone looking for a worthwhile restoration/ project.
Important: the van is an unreliable starter. It should be collected/ transported by the buyer rather than relying on it to start and drive away.
I first bought this van in 2008, so I have a long history with it. During my original ownership I replaced the engine with the engine currently fitted, which has covered approximately 20, 000 km since being installed.
I subsequently sold the van to a friend and colleague and, having the opportunity to buy it back, bought it again in 2020. I have therefore known the vehicle for a considerable period of time and have a good knowledge of its history.
The van has a genuine Westfalia Helsinki interior, including the original Westfalia units, upholstery, carpets and curtains. The original camper layout remains intact.
The fridge works, the interior lights and electrics work, and the van works from the 240V hookup. The heater also operates, although the gas system requires professional inspection and should not be considered safe to use in its current condition.
The van has been used during my ownership and in May 2026 I drove approximately 280 miles to my father’s 80th birthday. Since then, however, starting has become increasingly unreliable and I would not recommend relying on it for a journey.
Bodywork and restoration
This is an honest restoration/ project vehicle, not a finished camper.
There is significant rust and bodywork required, including areas around the:
* Window apertures
* Wheel arches
* Footwells
* Rear boot/ bodywork
* Lower body sections
* Bumpers
I have included photographs showing the condition of the bodywork so that prospective buyers can see what they are taking on.
There is also some damage to the front right light/ bodywork following a pheasant strike at approximately 55mph on the A9. The light glass has been glued back into place, but the surrounding area remains dented and rust is developing.
The sliding side door currently opens from the inside but is difficult to operate from the outside. I have previously had the door apart and believe the outside handle/ mechanism is very close to working correctly, but I haven’t completed the repair.
The original canvas has a tear which has been temporarily repaired with tape.
The tyres are also old and have not been replaced since before I bought the van in 2008. They should be replaced before the vehicle is used regularly on the road.
History
The van was originally imported from Holland in 2002.
During my first ownership, after the original engine failed on the journey home to Scotland, I fitted the current replacement engine with the help of a mechanic friend. It has covered approximately 20, 000 km since installation.
The van was subsequently sold to a friend and colleague, who had further professional bodywork carried out during his ownership. Approximately £8, 000 was spent on bodywork around 2010. I mention this as part of the vehicle’s history rather than as an indication of its current condition.
I have the paperwork relating to this work and the V5C is present and in my name.
The van has not had an MOT during my ownership since 2020. As a 1978 historic vehicle it may fall within the MOT exemption rules, but the buyer should satisfy themselves as to its current roadworthiness and legal requirements before use.
In summary
This is a genuine, largely original 1978 Westfalia Helsinki camper with a very good original interior and a long history, but it needs substantial bodywork and recommissioning.
I am selling it because the restoration has simply become a bigger project than I have the skills, time and inclination to take on.
I would much rather see it go to someone who understands these vans and wants to restore it properly than continue to have it sitting unused.
Viewing is strongly recommended.
The van should be collected/ transported rather than driven away.
£9, 500 ONO
Serious enquiries welcome. I have many additional photographs and further historical information available for genuinely interested buyers. Original Westfalia interior - untouched.
