The Original VW Bus - The Restorers Guide To All Bus Panel Van And Pickup Models 1950-79

There was a time when the ultimate expression of freedom involved a Volkswagen Bus, a collection of camping equipment and the optimistic belief that a forty-horsepower engine could propel an entire household across Europe without complaint. The VW Bus became an icon of adventure, commerce and counterculture, demonstrating that a vehicle shaped approximately like a bread bin could inspire more affection than machinery costing ten times as much.

In The Original VW Bus – The Restorer’s Guide to All Bus, Panel Van and Pickup Models 1950–79 (1997), Laurence Meredith explores the fascinating details of Volkswagen’s legendary Transporter. Published by Bay View Books, this specialist reference work examines the factory specifications, design changes and distinctive features that distinguish the many versions of this much-loved vehicle.

Introduced in 1950, the Volkswagen Type 2 was a masterpiece of practical packaging. Its rear-mounted, air-cooled engine and compact dimensions allowed for an impressively spacious interior, making it ideal for tradesmen, delivery companies and anyone requiring a vehicle capable of carrying enormous quantities of miscellaneous belongings at a decidedly leisurely pace.

The early split-screen models became especially desirable, with their distinctive two-piece windscreens, rounded bodywork and charmingly utilitarian interiors. Later bay-window versions introduced improved visibility, greater refinement and the revolutionary possibility of travelling uphill without quite so much mechanical determination.

Meredith’s guide explores the variations that make Volkswagen Bus restoration such an absorbing occupation. From passenger-carrying models and hardworking panel vans to practical pickups and their numerous configurations, the Transporter evolved through a bewildering assortment of detail changes. To the casual observer, one old Volkswagen van looks much like another. To the dedicated enthusiast, however, the wrong door handle, dashboard fitting or engine compartment detail can constitute a historical outrage requiring immediate corrective action.

Naturally, the VW Bus also became a symbol of the 1960s counterculture, transporting surfers, musicians and adventurous young travellers who believed that happiness involved abandoning conventional society and sleeping in a vehicle with inadequate heating. Ironically, many surviving examples are now worth substantial sums, making the carefree lifestyle considerably less affordable than its original participants might have imagined.

For restorers, the pursuit of originality can become a magnificent obsession. What begins as an inexpensive project van may eventually consume years of spare time, extensive welding and sums of money that would comfortably finance a respectable modern motor car.

Condition: As New. This copy is exceptionally well preserved, presenting as new despite its 1997 publication date. Unlike many surviving Volkswagen Transporters, it requires no replacement floor panels, extensive rust treatment or expensive reconstruction of structural components.

Published by Bay View Books in 1997. ISBN: 9781870979849.

Offered by Crappy Old Books, where we admire the remarkable dedication of Volkswagen enthusiasts, particularly their willingness to spend thousands restoring a vehicle originally designed to provide inexpensive commercial transport.

An excellent addition to any collection of Volkswagen literature, classic commercial vehicle history or specialist restoration guides. Particularly recommended for enthusiasts who understand that restoring an old VW Bus involves far more than making it roadworthy: every obscure fitting must be correct before the owner can drive it to a campsite and experience the authentic pleasure of condensation, cramped accommodation and breakfast cooked beside the rear bumper.

Keep browsing: See more Transport books Other books by Laurence Meredith