Highlights
- Older restoration in very good order
- Smart two-tone van that is great inside and out
- Subaru EJ20 engine with recent work
- Two previous registered keepers with current since 1984
- MOT to July 2025
- Versatile van with bespoke trailer for storage
The Appeal
A good Type 2 camper can really get under your skin and become part of the family, as this wonderful example proves. Let us introduce ‘Vanny’ to you, a beautifully restored and preserved ‘72 camper that has been with its current keeper since 1984. There was only two keepers before that.
Looking particularly pretty in light blue with white roof, this lovely van is equally impressive inside where the well preserved and practical cabin is a testament to the care of its long term keeper. The specification includes a useful pop top cooker, fridge, sink, lots of storage and versatile bed and seat layouts. There is even a bespoke trailer included to add more storage.
Beyond the smart aesthetics, this is a very useable van thanks to the Subaru EJ20 boxer engine at the back. It adds extra power and tractability compared to the standard VW air cooled options. That motor benefits from recent work, including head gasket, belts and rocker cover gaskets. The brakes, starter motor and exhaust are also upgraded, and there is a Freeway Flyer gearbox.
This van’s voluntary MOT to July 2025 is further demonstration of the care of its long term keeper. For those in search of a well kept, practical and pretty classic camper, this one should be on your shortlist.
The vendor says:
“We are selling our well loved ‘Vanny’ that has been owned by us for 40 years. This van is a unique and incredible vehicle ready for a new adventure. You will definitely take a step back in time with this van; it’s nostalgic and legendary! Perfect for road trips, camping adventures, or even just showing off its timeless appeal.
“Over the years this van has been through lots of different restoration and renovation projects. The current specification is listed below but please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. The van has been continually in storage ever since the last main restoration in 2005; there is no rust in it whatsoever and it is structurally sound.”
The History and Paperwork
- First registered 16th June 1972
- Two previous registered keepers from new
- Current keeper since May 1984
- Previously white which was changed in August 2006
- Restored 2005/2006 including bare metal respray
- Further renovation work throughout its life
- Trailer included as shown in photos
- 2L EJ20 Subaru engine fitted at 100,000 miles
- Buyers note that DVLA states van is fitted with a 1.6L engine
- Historic Vehicle registration so tax, ULEZ and MOT exempt
- Voluntary MOT valid to 2nd July 2025 with one minor advisory
- Vendor advises includes “various bits and bobs, brake cable, spare wheel cover, original manuals, brochures”
- Many receipts for work according to seller
The Condition
- Classic two-tone light blue and white paintwork following older restoration
- Paintwork presents very well in photos with only minor marks to note
- Bodywork is very presentable with vendor reporting van is structurally sound
- There are some localised areas of deterioration to note to bodywork in photos
- These mainly affect the nearside including both arches and sill end
- White bumpers present well with matching steel wheels with chrome hub caps
- Spare wheel with matching two-tone cover as shown
- Pop top roof in good working order and featuring two vents and two roof lights
- Exterior lights in good order with no reported damage and no visible misting
- Small bespoke trailer included in matching colour scheme and good condition
- Trailer interior carpeting shows some light marks but not unsightly
- Interior professionally converted in 2008 by McKinnon Conversions
- Very well kept interior with smart beige velour front seats and cabinets in good order
- Versatile interior with various seats, bed, sink, fridge and cooker
- Interior fittings including seat fabric, curtains and cushions all present very well
- Front cabin features two-spoke factory wheel and rubber protective floor mats
- Dashboard and switchgear in good order with no reported cracks or faults
- Door cards and rear panelwork appears notably free from scuffs and marks
- Fitted with modern Sony CD player as shown
Specification:
- Pop up roof, originally a Dormobile with covering renewed in 2005
- Rock and roll ¾ bed
- Cab Heater
- New curtains and seat/ bed covers
- SMEV 2 Gas Hob and Sink
- Fridge by Vitrifrigo
- Gas bottle cupboard plus a gas cylinder
- Leisure battery
- 240 V junction box
- SuperCharge Electronic Charger
- Mains power hook-up
- Power Control Panel
- Dining table
- Buddy seat (for porta potti included)
- Sony remote control radio
- Stereo speakers in front doors and under rear seats
- Two electric main socket outlets
- Full size breathable cover
- Bow roof rack by Creative Engineering (not fitted)
- Full set of Thermo-Barrier window covers
The Mechanics
- EJ20 2L Subaru ‘boxer’ engine by TSR Conversions
- Engine fitted at 100,000 miles
- 4spd Freeway Flyer gearbox
- Recent head gasket, belts and rocker cover gaskets replaced
- Oil Cooler
- Cross Drilled Vented Brakes
- Thatcham Category 1 Immobilizer
- New KYB Gas Shock absorbers
- New starter motor
- Soundproofing by Noico
- New custom made exhaust
- No reported running or driving issues
- One minor advisory on current MOT to note
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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