Description
Volkswagen T3 Westfalia | 1981
Highlights:
- Early water-cooled T3 Westfalia with 4-speed long-ratio manual gearbox
- Refurbished engine with double-barrel carburetor and new exhaust
- Equipped with power steering, solar panel, and trailer hitch
- New canvas roof with 3 windows and waterproofing treatment (2024)
- Valid technical inspection certificate and ready to drive
The seller offers for sale a 1981 Volkswagen T3 Westfalia bus in largely original condition, fitted with a 1900 cc petrol engine and a manual transmission. This early Westfalia is notable for being part of the first generation of water-cooled T3 campers. It features a 4-speed long-ratio manual gearbox and has been updated with several technical improvements for modern touring.
Mechanically, the vehicle has undergone significant maintenance. The engine has been overhauled with hoses replaced and the dual-barrel carburetor tuned for fuel efficiency. A new exhaust system has been installed, and the vehicle now includes power steering. Essential services such as oil changes, coolant renewal (every two years), and brake fluid have been consistently performed. The seller notes that the bus runs smoothly and is suitable for long journeys when regular maintenance is followed. Four new tires (80% tread) are installed, and an additional set of Mercedes black wheels with lightly used tires is included.
Inside, the camper retains its original grey Westfalia mosaic furniture setup. It features a two-burner gas stove with internal shutoff valves, a 12V fridge (installed in June 2024), an 80-litre stainless steel clean water tank mounted under the chassis, and a portable chemical toilet. The elevating roof includes a new canvas with three windows, installed in June 2024, complete with a water-repellent coating. Other amenities include a dual battery setup with marine-style switch, an exterior shower with portable gas heater, and a roof-mounted homologated solar panel with automatic regulator.
The paint and bodywork are good, with some light oxidation on the front and rear bumper mounts and superficial rust around the wheel arches. However, the window frames are described as structurally good, showing no perforation. The interior is in a good condition, with original upholstery in good shape and all camper equipment in working order.
Technically, the Westfalia is solid and the vehicle holds a valid inspection. There are no accident records.
Volkswagen’s T3 series marked a shift from the earlier air-cooled Type 2 to more modern water-cooled engines, providing better reliability and performance. The Westfalia camper conversions remain among the most iconic travel vans in automotive history, offering a practical, compact living space combined with the charm of VW’s enduring boxy design. These vehicles were built for exploration, and their modular interiors became synonymous with 1980s road culture across Europe and North America.
As the last rear-engine Volkswagen transporter, the T3 represents the end of an era. It improved handling and comfort while preserving the camper versatility that made the Westfalia brand famous. Over time, T3 Westfalias have gained cult status among collectors and vanlife enthusiasts. Their blend of simplicity, functionality, and retro appeal ensures continued demand. This particular 1981 model, with its rare combination of original condition and practical upgrades, is a well-balanced choice for those seeking a functional classic with enduring charm.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at 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.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located on Tenerife island, Spain.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Spanish registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
