1970 VW Type 2 Westfalia pop-top camper, refurbished with overhauled engine and gearbox
Refreshed early Bay Window Westfalia with new pop-top canvas; bidding is early and will rise.
Why we picked it
The seller lists a broad refurbishment: an overhauled 1600 engine (from a 1970 Type 1), an overhauled transaxle, refinished paint, new pop-top canvas and rear screen, and reupholstered seats. It keeps the Westfalia cabinetry, sink and louvered screened windows, and it comes with a clean Maryland title.
The $3,750 bid is far below what driver-quality Westfalias have been bringing, but there is more than a week left and bids usually climb. The engine is not the original, which matters less for a camper meant to be used.
The value check
The current bid is $3,750. Comparable cars in the same condition have sold for $13,500–$18,750, so the middle of the market is about $16,125. That put this car 77% under. Bids usually climb in the final hours, so the discount will likely shrink.
Classic.com shows 1971 Westfalia campers selling for $13,500 to $18,750 since late 2024 (e.g. $18,750 Apr 2025, $14,805 Nov 2024). The $3,750 bid plus buyer fee is roughly 75% under the $16,100 midpoint, with over a week left.
What to check
- Bay Window rust spots: front cab floor, battery trays, outriggers, jacking points, rear wheel arches and the lower front panel
- Engine is a replacement from a Type 1, not original to the van
- Seller notes leaking valve covers; check for oil on the cooling tin and heat exchangers
- Look closely at the pop-top frame and roof cutout for rust under the canvas
- Reserve status not shown; add Hagerty's buyer fee to your ceiling
Making it drive like new
Popular updates for a Bay Window camper are a 1776 or 1914cc build or a Subaru conversion, front disc brakes with a dual-circuit master, electronic ignition, a 12-volt auxiliary battery system for the camper, and better seat belts. Keeping the Westfalia interior intact helps resale.
