Part camper, part passenger van and part time machine, the Volkswagen Vanagon is a lifestyle on wheels. Its iconic boxy design gives it an enduring element of charm—it is no wonder there is such a community surrounding it, even three decades after the final unit was imported to the United States.
With an engine that achieves just 67 horsepower, it’s a clear example of a case where automotive enthusiasm doesn’t always have to center around having the flashiest car with go-fast capabilities. Besides, the Vanagon is all about recreation—chill vibes, road trip partners and taking the scenic route.
Featured on AutoHunter is this 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon. The van is being sold by a dealer in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, and the auction will end Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. (PDT).
The van is finished in ivory paint and comes with a clean CARFAX report that corroborates the low odometer reading of just 36,286 miles. Exterior features include running boards, black-finished bumpers and raised-white-letter tires—the overall theme is a simple, straightforward look.
The Vanagon, known otherwise as the Type 2 “T3,” was sold from 1980 through 1991 in the U.S. market and quickly became known as one of the most versatile vehicles on the planet. It could be configured as a standard van or a Westfalia-style camper. Today’s example comes with triple bench seats upholstered in brown vinyl; it’s eager to haul the fam or a group of friends. It’s also equipped with a Bluetooth-compatible audio system so everyone can contribute to the road trip playlist.
The Vanagon was all about utility: One ad said, “It gives you the best of a van and the best of a station wagon.” Another read, “When it’s time to leave it all behind, take more with you in a Vanagon.” The Vanagon boasted more behind-seat storage than a Plymouth Voyager, and Volkswagen called attention to a few other things that set it apart from the competition, like a four-wheel independent suspension that delivered a “uniquely European” ride.
The Vanagon’s engine is located beneath the rear cargo area and is accessed via a hatch. Inside, power comes from an air-cooled 2.0-liter flat four that was rated at 67 horsepower and 101 lb-ft of torque. A synchronized four-speed manual transaxle sends power to the rear wheels.
Check out the Facebook group “Volkswagen Vanagon and Westfalia Owners Unite” (at 29,600 members strong) for a glimpse into just how much of a cult following the Vanagon holds today. If you play your cards right and get in on some of this week’s AutoHunter action, you could join the community and make that group grow to 29,601.
The auction for this 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon ends Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. (PDT).
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery