Vehicle Description
This 1971 Volkswagen Transporter Bus is either the coolest thing
you've ever seen, or it's the real-life version of everything
you've ever suspected about the '60s. In truth, it's a nicely
restored Bus with a lot of practicality, a new engine, and an
honest look.
For most of us who grew up after the '60s, this is what we figured
all the VW buses looked like at one point or another in their
lives. But underneath the happy paint you'll find a very clean,
straight bus that's been well maintained thanks to its status as an
icon. We don't know what color it was originally, but light blue is
probably a good bet, but at this point does it even matter? The
paint is about four years old and holding up well, and while it has
been used as intended, it shines up nicely. And don't worry, the
flowers are decals, so you can go low-profile if that's what you
need. Given that it's never been wrecked or driven in a cold
climate, it's solid enough to be pressed into regular use once
again. Of course, you'll probably have to get used to being the
center of attention, because any time you stop there are going to
be questions, photo ops, and crowds of young-at-heart hippies who
want to relive a great part of their past. And admittedly, all that
attention is pretty cool.
The interior is a bit less funky, with a combination of original
parts and new upholstery on the seats and door panels. Dark blue
upholstery goes rather well with the light blue paint on the dash
and door frames, tying it all together nicely. The seating position
is definitely city bus upright, but the commanding view is part of
why these VWs are so beloved. As in the Beetle, the gauges monitor
only the basics, with secondary controls underneath, and there's a
newer AM/FM/CD stereo in the center of the dash. That big fan is
the only A/C but in most cases it's enough and you'll always have
fun behind the wheel. In back, the cavernous cargo area includes a
single bench seat that appears to be original, as well as wood
paneling side trim. There's no headliner, so you'll have to finish
that particular detail, but you could think of this as a blank
canvas just waiting for you to take it to the next level.
The 1600 cc VW flat-four was just rebuilt and installed by Then &
Now Restoration. With less than 2000 miles on the engine, it's
ready to go for another four or five decades. Peek under the rear
deck and you'll find the rugged little boxer engine, complete with
a dual carburetors, freshened ignition system, plus some
replacement wiring to make it reliable. It starts easily and
perhaps even more surprisingly, cruises easily at 65 MPH. With a
4-speed manual, it's involving to drive and takes some skill to
master that long linkage, but the suspension and brakes are in good
order and it feels right going down the road. It isn't fast, but
it'll go anywhere you need it to go and you'll still be impressed
by the fuel economy. It's quite clean underneath and is fitted with
simple steel wheels with 205/75/14 blackwall radials and simple
stainless hubcaps.
No, it's not for everyone, but if you were there, you know how cool
this VW really is. There's simply no other vehicle at any price
that can compete with this awesome VW in terms of sheer practical
fun. Call today!
