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.
