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Volkswagen Type 2 RHD

Old gold

Forget the Beetle Cabrio - for a dedicated group of enthusiasts, there's only one vehicle in which to tour the countryside. VW's Camper is one of the most popular classics among the surfing generation - but finding a usable example is a challenge.

By Chris Thorp

April 2003

Forget the Beetle Cabrio - for a dedicated group of enthusiasts, there's only one vehicle in which to tour the countryside. VW's Camper is one of the most popular classics among the surfing generation - but finding a usable example is a challenge.

If the lifestyle appeals to you yet the thought of running a 30-year-old car sends shivers down your spine, this may be the ideal solution. Imported from VW's Brazil plant, which still produces the Type 2 Bus, this brand new model can be bought in right-hand-drive form with all the character of the Seventies' version, and none of the pitfalls.

Visually, it would take an expert to tell the modern Vee-Dub from an old reconditioned example, but some revisions have been made underneath. Fuel injection gives the 1.6-litre air-cooled engine a welcome power hike, and front discs improve the braking.

Make no mistake, though, the driving experience is far from modern. The near-horizontal steering wheel is mounted directly over the front axle, and the weighty controls, quirky four-speed box and lumpy ride take some getting used to. Yet the improved performance from the rear engine, which produces an instantly recognisable noise, means there are no problems keeping up with traffic once up to speed. It's far from sporty, but it is great fun and is sure to bring a smile to your face.

The importer, Beetles UK of South Gloucestershire (0870 1202356), offers a wide range of Buses and Campers tailored to individual tastes. A basic right-hand-drive eight-seater Bus costs ΂£13,999, but creature comforts and any paint finish other than white will cause that to rise steeply. Campers with a sink and cooking facilities start from ΂£17,999. That's a lot of money for a 30-year-old van, even if it is brand new.

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FIRST OPINION

    If it's retro styling you're after, this VW offers more kudos than any other new car. The ride and handling are atrocious by today's standards, but it has got character to spare and is sure to turn plenty of heads. The Camper and Bus are far from cheap, but they are truly unique.
 

AT A GLANCE

    RHD VW classic on sale now
    Contact Beetles UK for more details on 0870 1202365, or visit www.beetles-uk.com
     
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