1973 Volkswagen Dormabile

The last owner owned the van for around 10 years. This is a genuine 1972 German-made VW Kombi that travelled to the UK for a Dormobile camper conversion, before coming to New Zealand in 1977. It has a well-documented and interesting history and has clearly been cared for by enthusiasts. Originally fitted with a 1600 upright motor, it was later upgraded to a 2.0-litre "pancake" motor, which suits the vehicle well. In 2007, a previous owner shipped the van to China and completed the Peking to Paris overland event, after which it was shipped back to the UK and then on to Christchurch. Many of the touring and protection features were added for that trip, including: Front skid plates, Tread plate on rear bumper, Oil pressure and oil temperature gauges, Small solar panel feeding a second battery, Roof rack and overland accessories Work Completed By last Owner - The van has had all major mechanical and structural items attended to: Engine stripped and rebuilt, Twin carburettors fitted, Stainless steel exhaust, Rev counter installed Brakes sorted, Gearbox replaced with one better suited to the 2.0L motor (lower cruising revs on open road), New tyres all round (recent), Rust removed and repaired where required, then repainted, Underside sandblasted and sealed, Front and rear shocks replaced, Driver and front passenger seat belts replaced The van is regularly serviced by Metric Nut in Christchurch. Receipts are held. Camper Setup - Included with the sale: Power cable for campground hook-ups, Waste water tank, Portable toilet, Roof box, Spare wheels Condition & Honest Notes: This is a 53-year-old vehicle. It is tidy, used regularly, and not a restored trailer queen. May leak a very small amount of oil (likely rocker covers) - typically just a drop after use. Original bunk bed canvas is finally giving way and should be replaced before sleeping on it Broken radio aerial, One broken radio control knob, Door cards are serviceable but show age, Very small crack in the dash (has not worsened), Paintwork not perfect - scuffs on rear bumper corners and minor imperfections elsewhere, Seats, rooftop canopy, and sun visors appear original and are all serviceable The van was used most weekends by the last owner (often for surf trips), drives well, and has proven itself as a reliable classic camper. A well-sorted, mechanically cared-for VW Dormobile with genuine overland history, sensible upgrades, and honest presentation. Ideal for someone wanting a classic Kombi that can be used and enjoyed, not just looked at. Dealer Stock No : 61682