For Sale: 1978 Volkswagen Type 2 in Mesa, Arizona

A Volkswagen Type 2 Bus is all about packing the most classic car fun in an economical package. And there's no better way to do that than in a Westfalia camper, especially with one where there have been solid investments to keep it a strong runner. So take some extra time to explore the cool vintage attitude of a Bus that's not only ready to hit the road, but also live out there for quite some time, too.


This VW Bus has a good sense of style. The teal blue paint is a friendly color that makes this camper look inviting. It's part of an older respray, but it still shines nicely. In fact, we have about $20k in receipts documenting solid investment all-around this VW over the last decade. So there's a quality look and feel in everything from the updated wheels to the weather-stripping. And pieces like the wide dual side mirrors, full-size front spare, and rear trailer hitch show this one was made for practicality.


Inside, the set up in the front is clean and comfy. You have vintage pieces like the VDO gauges and dual-spoke steering wheel. These are mixed with the right driver comforts, like retro-style AM/FM/cassette stereo and updated bucket seats with cloth upholstery and large headrests. In the back, the curtains, the plaid seat cloth, and the faux wood all give this a retro-cool vibe. That's exactly what this one is going for. But this is also meant to have all the best comforts of home. That's why there's a working sink, cooktop, and mini-fridge. There are even outside connections to have these hook up to services. There's also a propane tank and camp toilet for when you're far from civilization. Built-in storage, a rear padded bed, and the iconic pop-up camping roof make this a true home away from home.


The 2.0-liter motor is a great find. It has the same hardy VW air-cooled construction you found in the Beetle, but in a larger displacement. This is even a fuel-injected version. The whole setup was rebuilt in 2012, and it even passed its emissions test a few months ago. The motor fires up readily, and the four-speed manual transmission shifts smoothly. These later Type 2s had an updated suspension design over the earlier ones, and this also has the confidence of power brakes w/front discs. It all makes for a true vintage road-trip machine.


Complete with build receipts and maintenance records, this is the vintage VW with the explorer attitude that helped make it an icon. You know this one is ready for its next adventure. Are you?