1983 Volkswagen Vanagon

Volkswagen made no significant changes to the Vanagon for 1983, so it was essentially the same vehicle that had appeared in showrooms the previous couple of years. The rear-wheel-drive vehicle, which could carry seven to nine passengers, was powered by a 67-horsepower, 2.0-liter, air-cooled four-cylinder engine with fuel injection. A four-speed manual transmission was standard, while a three-speed automatic transmission was available as an option.

The Vanagon was also available with a 1.6-liter, water-cooled diesel engine that generated only 48 horsepower, resulting in good fuel efficiency, but an underpowered vehicle, according to some reviewers. As a result, the diesel engine was discontinued after 1983.

The Vanagon was equipped with rack-and-pinion steering, power-assisted brakes, and front and rear independent suspension. Standard features also included front bucket seats, a rear window defogger, two-speed windshield wipers, vinyl upholstery, and a folding rear bench seat that provided additional cargo space. Air conditioning and a rear window wiper were among the options.

In addition to the standard model, a Vanagon Camper version was available, outfitted by Westfalia. It came with a pop top, a rear seat that folded out into a bed, a refrigerator, stove, sink, storage cabinets, and a pantry.