The original VW commercial, which also formed the basis of the ever-popular camper, was launched as the Type 2 in 1950. The first models had an 1131cc engine with just 25bhp, which made them slow and noisy, but they were immensely practical as pick-ups and light commercials. These very early examples were distinguished by a split windscreen and a large engine cover, often described as the barn door type. A later upgrade to 30bhp made a welcome improvement. The Microbus followed in 1955, initially with the 1192cc engine and no fewer than 23 separate panes of glass in the body! Like the first commercials, these models had a split windscreen at first, and this remained a characteristic right the way through to 1967. Meanwhile, 1960 had brought another significant change in the configuration, when the tailgate window was enlarged and the two rear quarter-windows disappeared. The factory camper conversion was called the Westfalia, but in the UK at least there were also well-respected aftermarket conversions from Danbury and Devon. Becoming available on the used-car market towards the middle and end of the 1960s, it is no surprise that these affordable and likeable machines swiftly became associated with the hippie movement of the times. From 1967, a re-style retained the essential lines of the original and was readily recognisable by its single-piece windscreen. Power increases helped the models to remain abreast of the times but by the end of the 1970s there was no disguising the age of their basic design. So in 1979, the Type 2 went out of production and was replaced by a much less appealing range of models with squarer, almost characterless lines. These VWs are characteristic of an era which has now passed, but many of them still remain in use as practical and affordable vehicles. Others are cherished by enthusiasts and see only occasional use. Their original designers would nevertheless be both pleased and amazed to see how enduring their creations have been. This is a book of contemporary road & comparison tests, new model intros, technical data, driving & road impressions, profile, long term tests plus advice on acquiring a good pre-owned car. Models covered: Microbus, Pick-up, Kombi, Transporter & Landmark.

Publisher: Brooklands Books

Status: Out of Print (No Stock)

Number of pages: 140

Black & white images: 250

Binding: SBD

Origin: HKG