For Sale: 1985 Volkswagen Van in Mesa, Arizona

The iconic camper style meets with a ton more modern convenience in this 1985 Volkswagen Vanagon Westfalia. So take a look at a useful and versatile machine that also still has that great classic wanderer vibe.

The versatile forward-control style and squared-off "bread van" style make this instantly reminiscent of the classic VW Bus. That's because the Vanagon is the more powerful, larger, and nimbler successor. And since this is approaching its 40th birthday, there's a nostalgia here for more than just its lineage. These earlier Vanagons have a desirable style with chrome bumpers, round headlights, and svelte lines. Even the cream paint with a white top looks vintage. It all has a very vintage, traveled, but respected stock style on this actual miles van. In fact, the only upgrade you may spot is the later set of alloy wheels. These are larger units, and that means you get to fit better touring tires on this traveler.

Inside, the driver gets all the right comforts with high-back bucket seats done in a plush brown cloth. It has good bolstering and armrests to make sure it's long-haul comfortable. Plus, there's a large steering wheel, a shifter within easy reach, and a nice upgraded AM/FM/CD stereo for entertainment (and the USB will even charge a modern phone.) There's also an R134a air conditioning system, and it just likely needs a recharge to blow the ideal level of cold. But the true luxuries are all behind this. A fold-up table and a fold-flat bed all mean you can take home with you in a compact and well-organized package. There's even a cabinet that holds the propane stove, a sink, and a refrigerator. Also, as a true Westfalia, it has the iconic pop-up roof for comfortable camping.

Besides being larger than a VW Bus, the Vanagon is also desirable for its drivetrain package. The motor is a 1.9-liter fuel-injected Wasserboxer flat-four. These are the water-cooled motors that are a rarity even in the Vanagon world, and many people seek them out. The motor is mounted low in the body for a low center of gravity, and the weight over the rear driving wheels delivers the same power/traction advantages of the Beetle. It's not the kind of powerhouse that wins drag races, but you can feel the smart engineering in its setup. There's also a fully independent suspension and the control of a four-speed manual transmission. So if you've never driven one before, you're going to be surprised at how lively this VW feels on the road. Add in power steering and power brakes with front discs, and this is an enjoyable total driving package.

This is the VW camper that delivers the classic look you love but with extra space, convenience, and usefulness. Better adventures await you, but only if you call today!