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1981 Volkswagen Vanagon Overview
After introducing its Vanagon in 1980, Volkswagen made no changes to the vehicle for 1981. In fact, there's almost no way to distinguish the 1981 model from the '80 models. Somes experts point out that the only way to tell the difference is to refer to the each model's vehicle identification number (VIN).
The rear-wheel-drive Vanagon was available in four editions for 1981 -- the standard Vanagon, the higher-end Vanagon L, and two camper models. All came with a 67-horsepower, 2.0-liter, air-cooled four-cylinder engine with fuel injection. It was linked to a four-speed manual transmission, which was standard. A three-speed automatic transmission was available as an option.
The Vanagon was fairly well 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. The Vanagon L added two-tone exterior paint, carpeting, and a lockable glove box, among other features.
The Vanagon was not without its quirks. Because the engine was in the back, a full-size spare tire was stored in a tray under the front of the vehicle. The battery was located under the front passenger's seat, and the master cylinder for the braking system was located inside the dashboard, requiring some dismantling of the dash to get to the brake fluid reservoir.
What's your take on the 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon?
Cars compared to 1981 Volkswagen VanagonPeople researching a 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon contacted a dealer about
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Volkswagen Vanagon
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Ford F-150
3% of the time
Looking for a Used Vanagon in your area?
CarGurus has 18 nationwide Vanagon listings and the tools to find you a great deal.
Why Won't My Clutch Engage?
1981 VW Vanagon has had the following issues in last 2 weeks: Replaced points & Distributor condenser, coil, starter connectors, fuel filter. finally got it running, went to take test drive-Clutch ...
1981 Vanagon Lurching
My 81 vanagon won't go past certain speeds. Raining this morning, it was REALLY bad. Feels like a fuel flow problem, but I replaced the fuel filter, and I smell gasoline. The engine just chokes at a l...
Instrument Cluster To Replace
Hi, Wehave to replace ourvanagon cluster 1981. What years could fit in it?
Why Does My Van Sound Like Its Running Out Of Gas And Dies And It Has A Ful...
I Have A 1981 Vw Vanagon (stock Air Cooled) That Has Been Running Great But...
I haven't worked on VW in the last 30 years, I don't want to remove and replace stuff (parts store is a 12 mile walk to get there.
- Base Passenger Van
- Camper Passenger Van
- Kombi Passenger Van
| #1 |
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Scott Sr.
Reputation
870
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Ryan Redenbaugh
Reputation
250
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chassy
Reputation
200
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Vincent Love it would like a bit more power though.
Carmen what is the 1981 van worth today , runs, needs some body work and has some rust, like would 2,000. be too much?