1985 Volkswagen Vanagon Reviews, Pricing & Specs

The 1985 Volkswagen Vanagon was powered with a 1.9-liter, water-cooled four-cylinder engine that generated 83 horsepower, thanks to a fuel-injection system called the Digi-Jet. The rear-wheel-drive vehicle was also equipped with rack and pinion steering, power-assisted front disc brakes, and front and rear independent suspension.

Standard features for the Vanagon included reclining front bucket seats, a rear window defogger, three-speed windshield wipers, an electric windshield washer system, vinyl upholstery, and a four-speaker sound system.

A Vanagon VL version added velour upholstery, folding arm rests for each seat, tinted glass, a rear window wiper/washer, and a premium sound system. A Vanagon Camper was also available. It was equipped with a pop-up roof, a stove, kitchen cabinet and sink, a swivel table, and refrigerator. Air conditioning was available as an option.

Generally drivers seemed particularly attached to their Vanagons, even though the vehicles could be problematic at times, requiring expensive repairs, drivers noted.