VW T2 container van
ENGINE 1584cc/flat-4/OHV POWER 57bhp@4400rpm TORQUE 82lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 70mph 0-50MPH 23sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 21-29mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT April 2019 ODOMETER 91,335 miles WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? The immediate start and healthy sound of this flat-four is promising but our first task of reversing with limited rear vision took time and care. The clutch is light but the steering is heavy until the van is well underway. Gear selection is a little awkward until the positions have been located. The most noticeable aspect of the driving experience is the performance of the twin-port motor, which still felt relaxed at 65mph. The brakes and steering are more positive and precise than many previous Type 2s we’ve tried.
BODYWORK CHECK
This vehicle was produced for the Australian army to monitor bomb blasts in the Outback. Previous owners have respected the vehicle’s originality and made very few alterations. It was restored fully in 2007 and repainted Lotus British Racing Green. The paint was refreshed in 2015 and is blemish-free, the original viewing hatch is still in place and the large windows offer plenty of light. It all looks like it has just left the painter’s oven, as the exterior is immaculate.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The large container interior has been lined with alloy sheet and the floor carpeted to complement the five leather seats taken from a Land Rover Discovery; these also match the driver and passenger seats in the cab. The dash panel has been painted to exterior colour while the dials, steering wheel and handbrake lever are all original. The wiring under the dash would benefit from being tidied away while a more period radio would also enhance things. Even with seven seats (for which this VW has been certified) there’s still ample space for plenty of luggage; an ideal space for the long-distance tourer.
UNDER THE BONNET
The rear-mounted engine is exceptional in appearance. Both engine and gearbox were reconditioned in 2015 and the twin-port motor has new carburettors and a stainless steel exhaust system. The engine is free from leaks of any type and without any unwanted noises. The history file offers hours of reading, including revealing that of 123 Australian container vans built, this is believed to be the only surviving bay window version. A packed photograph album details the ground up restoration plus details of its military career.
THE CCW VIEW
The majority of these vehicles have moved into the catering world but this 1970 version has led a rather special existence; it’s rare seven-seater transport. While it may be only slightly wider than a camper version, it’s certainly taller than the average garage door. All of the important work has been done and the invoices confirm far more has been invested by previous owners than the current price.