We go a VW T4 SWB van through a motability auction and then got Leisuredrive to convert it to our specification into a high top camper. Now we have a wee one, it is a bit cramped and you have to be super tidy but doable so would definitely go for a LWB.
We looked at a couple of Exclusives before we bought our SWB van. They’re obviously bigger, and I really like the rear kitchen / shower layout, but we wanted a van which could be used as a second car too and I wasn’t that comfortable with an LWB hi-top for that reason (height restrictions etc). Great vans though and like someone else mentioned, like all Westys, they hold value really well. We could probably get back what we paid on ours 4 years ago if we sold at the right point in the season. In terms of engines on the Westys, mine is a 1.9TD which is v reliable and simple to work on and quite nippy through the gears, will cruise all day at 75 but runs out of puff on steep hills without a decent run-up (bit like its driver). You’ll pay quite a bit more for a 2.5 TDi – quicker, but more prone to problems. 2.4D is OK, but a bit lumpy to drive. Don’t even consider the non-turbo 1.9D. Cost of vans varies HUGELY through the season. Just after Christmas is probably an ideal time to buy.
Don’t buy one, unless you need class leading towing capacity. Handles like a shopping trolley with a squiffy wheel, bumpy, noisy and thirsty 🙂 Love it though.
@SprocketJockey – I have a Westy and a Syncro – no joy in getting them to breed so far. a few mates have Westy Syncros and they do get to camp in some brilliant locations.
Fantastic bit of kit but on the small side compared to the VW’s or dedicated camper conversions. Hence the decent size awning / tent.
Mind you, less ££ though and we went for one as it’s more practical in terms of size – more akin to ‘normal’ cars – it’s actually slightly shorter than a Mercedes E-class estate…
Nealglover that westfalia is bloody fantastic would love to find a second hand one of those
Go to Germany and buy one (they are all LHD anyway so it makes no difference)
I bought my 2.5TDi Multivan 150 on a trip to Berlin, and the paperwork side of things is very simple.
Registering in the UK was a doddle. And no extra import tax/stuff is payable so it’s easy.
Look for the 2.5TDi engine (preferably the 150BHp, although the 102BHp is ok) As the 1.9’s don’t really have enough power for the size/weight.
This is my T4 SWB, aftermarket conversion by Autohaus. Bought off Clink of this ‘ere parish 5 years ago or so.
Currently in use at a pitch in the Borgogne, the power of campsite wifi, this photo taken a few hours ago 😉
It’s much as a I got it from Clink, but have added an Eberspacher diesel heater for winter trips – mainly just me, dont usually try and wild camp with the two kids in winter.
But in summer, travelling light, there’s space enough for the four of us to stay in it at French Aires etc.
2.5l Tdi, 88bhp (will live forever, it’s fundamentally the same engine as the 105bhp+ but not run ragged), I get 39mpg out of it when cruising gently. Never quite broken the 40mpg barrier. Great size for getting around small French villages, cols, and under 2.1m heigh barriers before popping the roof up.
Now with a tow ball bike rack (altera sliding thingy, ace bit of kit) that is carrying 2 adult bikes, 2 Jr ones and a trailer.
Autohaus is still going I think but now part of a bigger company. Think the conversion was just into five figures. Reimo pop up and proper rock and roll bed. 2 hib gas, waeco 12v fridge, 60L water tank and pump to basin.
I’ve just bought a Peugeot boxer 2008. It will be a camper by Xmas! It’s wonderfully quiet. I can stand up on the low roof I’m 5″8. Best thing is as its wide I can sleep width ways which frees up loads of space and a bike fits width ways so I will be building a boot for 2 bikes. Highly recommended!
Posted 11 years ago
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