Pre-bids

1972 Volkswagen Type 2 'Bay Window' Microbus Dormobile Camper Conversion

Highlights

  • UK market RHD Microbus with period Dormobile camper conversion
  • Restored to original specifications, keeping everything as original as possible
  • MOT until August 2025
  • Professionally resprayed in VW Silver White over VW Velvet Green
  • ULEZ, tax, and MOT exempt

The Appeal

The British are of course well-known for their love of camping holidays and so it comes as no surprise that two of the principal converters for Volkswagen Type 2 vans were UK-based; namely Devon Conversions and Martin Walter Dormobile.

We're delighted to offer this very original example of a Dormobile-converted 'Bay Window' Microbus. Widely regarded as one of the best elevating roofs ever developed for the Type 2, Dormobile's side-hinged pop top offers ample headroom and two child-sized bunk beds.  They were well-equipped too, with an ingenious hob/ grill which folds out from behind the front passenger seat, a three-way fridge, a sink with tap and electric pump as well as ample cupboard space, dining table and drawers.

This 1972 example has undergone restoration while retaining its delightful original Dormobile appointments - even down to the door cards and trim. 

The vendor tells us the following regarding the restoration work:

"The van has been professionally resprayed in VW Silver White over VW Velvet Green with colour-coordinated wheels and bumpers. The interior has also been resprayed in VW silver white. The central chassis members have been replaced and painted along with all 6 outriggers and the outer, middle and inner sills have been replaced on both sides. The van has new battery trays and rear quarter panels on both sides and a new drivers side front wheel arch. The sliding door lower panel has been replaced and a new rear wheel arch and closing panels fitted. The engine is a 1.6 twin port with original air filter system and starts first time. The gearbox is excellent, and the van starts, drives and stops very well. The battery is brand new."

The History and Paperwork

  • Registered as a historic vehicle, making it ULEZ, road tax, and MOT exempt
  • Voluntarily MOT tested for peace of mind
  • Seller has experience restoring several vehicles
  • UK market RHD example
  • 11,800 miles indicated - only around 50 miles since last MOT passed
  • Numerous parts invoices from marque specialists

The Condition

  • The central chassis members have been replaced and painted along with all 6 outriggers and the outer, middle and inner sills have been replaced on both sides
  • New battery trays and rear quarter panels on both sides and a new drivers side front wheel arch
  • The sliding door lower panel has been replaced, and a new rear wheel arch and closing panels fitted
  • Professionally resprayed in VW Silver White over VW Velvet Green
  • Colour-coordinated wheels and bumpers
  • Smart paint and chrome finishes
  • Original Dormobile interior, including all cabinetry, appliances and hard-to-find door cards and trim panels
  • The rear seat is a rock-and-roll bed and sleeps two adults; the vendor also has the original Dormobile seat if required
  • Fridge untested
  • Side-hinged elevating roof in good working order, with a clean canvas and good window panels
  • New curtains and rear seat upholstery
  • Two lap strap seat belts for the rear passengers.

The Mechanics

  • 1.6-litre twin-port air-cooled flat-four
  • Four-speed manual gearbox
  • Original air filter system
  • Reportedly starts first time, every time
  • Gearbox reported to be in very good condition; second gear can be more challenging to engage which is not uncommon for the model
  • Clutch reportedly in good order
  • New brake calliper and slave cylinders and new brake lines
  • No oil leaks reported
  • Brand-new battery installed
  • Mains hook up kit and a leisure battery system
  • The vendor advises all gas systems to be checked by a gas safe engineer
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BEFORE YOU BUY 
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: 
The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions.. 
We request that a non-refundable fee  be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. 
This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. 
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 
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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. 

Pre-bids

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A pre-bid means you're able to place a bid before the official start of the auction. You will be notified whether or not you are the highest bidder when the auction starts.

Auction Details

  • Year1972
  • MakeVolkswagen
  • ModelType 2
  • ColourMulticolour
  • Odometer11,800 Miles
  • Engine size1600cc
  • Seller TypePrivate
  • TownBristol
  • CountyGloucestershire
  • CountryUnited Kingdom
  • Auction ends

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