Volkswagen Vanagon Overview
Introduced in 1980, the Volkswagen Vanagon was designed as a replacement for the Microbus, which was VW's first van. (The Microbus had been around since 1950, and was showing its wear.) The rear-wheel-drive Vanagon, also known as the Type 2 T3, the T25 (in Great Britain), and the Transporter or Caravelle (in Europe), could carry seven to nine passengers.
In its first three years, it was equipped with a 67-horsepower, 2.0-liter, air-cooled four-cylinder engine with fuel injection. In mid-'83, the Vanagon's engine was upgraded to a 1.9-liter, water-cooled four-cylinder engine that generated 83 horsepower, and a Digi-Jet fuel-injection system was employed. Another engine overhaul was introduced in 1986, when the Vanagon got a 95-horsepower, 2.1-liter water-cooled four-cylinder engine with an updated fuel-injection system called the Digifant. That would continue to be the Vanagon's powerplant throughout its run, which ended in North American in 1991.
Over the 11 years it was in production, the Vanagon came in a number of different trim packages, including the standard Vanagon, the higher-end Vanagon GL, the Vanagon Camper, the GL Camper, the Vanagon Carat, and the limited-edition Wolfsburg Edition. Models with VW's Synchro all-wheel-drive system were also available.
While drivers were generally very loyal to the Vanagon, citing its roominess, sportiness, handling, and uniqueness as positive points, many offered words of caution to prospective owners, suggesting that the vehicle needed careful maintenance to prevent expensive repairs.
4.5 Overall rating
(64 reviews)Customers say
The Volkswagen Vanagon is a beloved choice for many drivers who appreciate its unique style, spacious interior, and versatility for camping and outdoor adventures. Owners often rave about the fun driving experience and the vehicle's nostalgic charm. However, criticisms commonly focus on its underpowered engine, maintenance costs, and occasional difficulties with rust and parts availability. Despite these downsides, the Vanagon is seen as a reliable companion that builds great memories and is perfect for road trips and family outings.
AI generated from the text of customer reviews.
What people say
I like it a lot! The Subaru SOHC 16V non-interference engine is bullet proof and matches up to the Vanagon 4 Spd perfectly. If you like, you can drive in 3rd gear at 70 mph. Cruising at 90 mph at sea level is comfortable.
With the conversion to a Subaru engine the performance makes it drive like a new vehicle. Strong and quiet. All the camping gear is in good order including the fridge. It is great for camping and has a small carbon footprint for an RV.
I loved camping in the Van. Great family memories. Fun to drive, fun to vacation with. It's a lifestyle. Westfalia enthusiasts befriend other Westy fans, and those wh have never seen one before, are amazed. I wish we could keep this van forever.
I have owned many, many vw's and this is the best one I have owned by far. Build quality is good for a vw. They got a lot of plastic in em. This is not the van to have if you want to just get in it and drive. They always need work. I am a mechanic so it is no big deal.
M-y beautiful Vanagon. I had always wanted a vanagon. (these are the best years to get 1986-1991) Mine was a 91Carat. It was alpine white, automatic, deluxe model (carat package) I bought it sight unseen from the original owner for $4,000.00 ( a wonderful deal) this van was in mint condition except the engine needed a rebuild. When I went to pick it up in Edmonds, I started it up and the thing came alive. It sounded like a mac truck. It was smoking live a chimney and all i could smell was coolant! I was nervous to drive it home the 25 or so minute drive on the freeway. But i made it home and I tore the original 2.1 water boxer out and rebuilt it but made it bigger ofcourse, the 2.1 automatic is way underpowered. I made it into a 2.3L. The power increase was slightly noticeable on the freeway but that is about it. I eventually sold it for almost 3X what I paid for it. I miss it a lot.
Volkswagen Vanagon FAQs
How many Volkswagen Vanagon vehicles in Minot, ND have no reported accidents or damage?
28 out of 28 for sale near Minot, ND have no reported accidents or damage.
What fuel types are available?
Gasoline engines are available.
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