Practically the definition of a pop-culture vehicle, the Volkswagen Type 2 is a legendary component of free-spirited camping culture. The 'hippie wagon' is now synonymous with the beach and summer leisure, to such an extent that all manner of ornaments, paintings and prints still festoon the high street.
With that status in mind, it's little wonder that they're amongst the most enduring, popular classics on the market. After all, who doesn't want freedom and leisure at their finger tips?
This 1978 example, nicknamed 'Elsa' by its family, is a lovely one. Classic, retro beige-yellow combines nicely with its plaid beige interior, creating a highly evocative style that's still very true to factory. Having spent much of its life in the sunny, American west, this van is a dry, nicely kept example that's highly benefited from its comfortable, meticulously maintained lifestyle.
History and Paperwork
Registered in 1978
In current ownership for 14 years
Bought in July 2012 in San Diego, California, USA
Spent its entire life travelling the west coast of America until August 2021
After this, it arrived on British soil - while remaining in the same ownership
Always garaged since 2012
Reportedly carries a comprehensive service history from July 2012 onwards
MOT exempt, last tested in 2021
Currently indicates 77,031 miles on a five-figure odometer
The Condition
Attractive beige-yellow paintwork with white accents
Bodywork presents well, with just a few paint chips
Some marks and wear to the contrast roof and bumpers
Light signs of texturing towards the van's lower extremities
The undercarriage appears free from notable defects, with some light corrosion
The plaid upholstery is in fine condition with no rips or tears
Dashboard is in good order
Highly original period interior
Some wear to the laminate woodwork
Light marks to the carpet
Pop-top in good order
Some creasing to the door cards
The Mechanics
1,930cc Flat 4 engine
Manual transmission with 5 gears
Brakes are fairly new
Engine bay in good order
The vendor reports that the van always starts up on the first turn of the key
They also note it drives well with no 'wander' and responsive controls
BEFORE YOU BUY
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.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com
