Description
Volkswagen T3 California | 1990
Highlights:
– 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, diesel, manual transmission
– 240,000 km on the odometer
– Complete Westfalia camper conversion with pop-up roof
– Kitchen unit with two-burner hob, sink and refrigerator
– Retractable side awning
The private seller offers for sale this 1990 Volkswagen T3 California, powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, paired with a manual transmission. Finished in cream white with the characteristic California side decals, this camper is fully equipped with the original Westfalia interior. The pop-up roof provides standing height and an extra sleeping area, while the living space features a kitchen unit with a two-burner gas hob, a stainless steel sink and a refrigerator, a folding table, practical storage cupboards and a rear bench that converts into a full double bed. A retractable side awning extends the living space outdoors, and a tow bar adds further practicality. The upholstery is in a light grey fabric that is in keeping with the bright cabin, and curtains are fitted all round. The odometer reads 240,000 km.
The van was originally purchased in Germany and comes with a valid roadworthiness inspection and is ready for the next road trip.
The third-generation Volkswagen Transporter, known as the T3, was introduced in 1979 and was built in Hanover until 1990, so this example dates from the final year of German production. It moved the engine to the rear and offered more space and a more car-like driving experience than its predecessors. For decades Volkswagen worked closely with Westfalia in Wiedenbrück to turn the Transporter into a camper, and in 1988 the two companies launched the California: a complete, well-equipped camper that was sold through the Volkswagen dealer network at an attractive price. The name has stayed with the Volkswagen camper ever since and has become synonymous with the brand’s leisure vehicles.
The T3 California combines the timeless, boxy design of the late Transporter with a remarkably clever interior layout. Everything needed for a weekend away or a long holiday is on board, yet the vehicle remains compact enough for everyday use and narrow country roads. The frugal diesel engine and the simple, robust mechanicals add to its appeal. Today the T3 Westfalia campers have a dedicated following all over Europe, and a complete California with its original Westfalia fittings is an increasingly desirable find.
Condition of the bodywork & paint
4 — Very Good. Clean with minimal wear; might need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Condition of the interior
4 — Very Good. Displays only minimal wear and can hit the road any time.
Technical condition
4 — Very Good. Mechanically solid, with potential for minor servicing.
Overall condition
4 — Very Good. Displays only minimal wear and can hit the road any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.