1979 VW DEVON DOUBLE TOP CAMPER

ENGINE 1584cc/flat-4/OHV POWER 53bhp@4000rpm TORQUE 81lb ft@2200rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 84mph 0-60MPH 22sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 18-24mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 30,285 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

This was never going to be the last word in driving dynamics, but while it’s a little agricultural, it’s a massively charming place to be. Ride comfort is good and the view out of the front is excellent. This particular example feels robust on the road – it’s not quick, but revs easily and can keep up with modern traffic. The steering is light and a little vague but that’s the nature of these beasts. There are no peculiar knocking sounds or vibrations through the suspension or steering, and no pedal shudder from the reasonably effective brakes. This is as mechanically on point as they come.

BODYWORK CHECK

The exterior could benefit from a little attention. There are a few rust spots, stonechips and scratches (though nothing too noticeable). The offside front wing, front bumper and roof rails are showing signs of tin worm and there’s bubbling under the paint at the front. The bases of the door mirrors are also corroded and there’s blistering and crazing on some chrome sections. Fortunately, it all seems rescuable, rather than desperate. The good news is that the yellow paint is even across the vehicle and the body panel gaps are as Volkswagen intended. The alloy wheels are free from corrosion and kerbing and the tyres look fairly new.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

It’s much better news inside – there’s not much to the forward cabin of a VW camper but what’s here seems to be in good condition. Only some exposed wiring detracts, really. There’s an aftermarket stereo system and some weighty-looking speakers, too. In the back there’s a fridge, a gas stove and a fold-out bed. It’s all in excellent condition – the carpets and seats are undamaged and all the interior equipment works perfectly. The bed sections are free from stains and tears and look very comfortable. It even has the original 1979 curtain rails.

UNDER THE BONNET

What can be seen of the engine through the letterbox lid – not a lot, to be honest – looks to be in good condition and pleasingly tidy. All the fluids are up to the maximum mark and none appear to have a history of leaking. The vehicle comes with a few receipts and old MoT certificates, but overall history is limited at best.

THE CCW VIEW

This is not a perfect example of a Type 2 camper, by any means, but it’s certainly more than usable as it stands. You could say that the rusty spots add to the charm, but then this camper’s low-mileage and mechanical competency deserve an exterior that lives up to the rest of it. It goes well and is very well equipped. With just a few exterior bits to sort out, this should be ready for a long summer of fun and entertainment. Nathan Chadwick