1967 Volkswagen Transporter Campmobile

Dutch Volkswagen importer Ben Pon drew up the idea of the Volkswagen Transporter on a cocktail napkin and soon, the legendary icon Microbus/Transporter/Camper/Van/bus was born. These were very functional vehicles and allowed a family to have a multi-purpose vehicle without having to buy a tow-along vehicle or mobile home.

The first conversion of the early 11-window 'Kombi' bus featured a rear seat that could fold to form a double bed. In the cab area, the front seats had backrests the could fold upwards to form chick bunks. Camping storage could be found in the bulkhead and contained a fuel stove, water tank, and sink. As the years progressed, so did the amenities, features, and styling of the Westfalia Camping Box. Soon, the vehicles had lightweight marine plywood, cupboards, gas stoves, and a picnic-table style seating that could fold into a bed. In 1962 a fiberglass pop-up top was added that extended upwards and provided additional room for its occupants.

1967 was the first year for the modern 12-volt electrical system.

This 1967 Volkswagen Westfalia Camper was offered for sale at the 2006 Gooding & Company Auction held in Pebble Beach, Ca. It was offered without reserve and estimated to fetch $30,000-$40,000. It has been finished with beige paint and typical 'Westie' conversion colors. It has the A42 option with equipment that includes, seats, sink, stove, and fold-down bed. Optional equipment on this vehicle included California black plates, vintage luggage, and camping gear.

It has been treated to a recent restoration by Hector Valdez of San Diego, Ca.

At the auction, the lot was sold for $49,500.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2007