The original Volkswagen Transporter is one of the most recognizable vehicle designs ever. The huge nine-seater was a popular vehicle choice for road trips and nomadic types. Over the years, the Transporter has become the best-selling van in history with more than 12 million units sold worldwide. Getting a hold of one of the original Type 2 vans could prove to be quite difficult — a van in great condition like this one could easily sell for north of $100,000. Swipe on for some images of this vehicular symbol of the 1960s counter-culture movement in the United States.
The design of the original Type 2 Transporter is quite simplistic. It features some rarely seen amenities like the dual-sided, flip up windshield. It was designed to be a no-frills vehicle that could carry a ton of people and their luggage while retaining an affordable price point. Back in the 1960s, these vans retailed for around $2,500.
This feel-good ride sits nine people and features storage space for luggage. During the 60s and 70s, it was the perfect vehicle for long summer road trips, nights of camping or for the folks who preferred to live a more nomadic lifestyle.
Powered by a 1.5L engine, the classic VW produces an output of about 53 horsepower, which is quite laughable by today’s standards. The extreme lack of speed forces the driver and passengers to really take in the scenery an ensures you’ll never get a speeding ticket on the highway. You’d probably struggle to push it past 60 mph anyway.
The most luxurious model of the Transporter is nicknamed the Samba and was in production from 1951-1967. As pictured, it features 23 separate windows and a funky two-tone paint job. Additional features include a fabric sunroof, dual pivot doors on the side and a ‘hat’ added to the front of the van in order to keep sunlight away from the driver’s face.
By today’s standards, the Transporter wouldn’t do too well on many American highways, but it remains an important part of auto industry history. Fairly popular among celebrities, Hugh Jackman and Jerry Seinfeld are current owners of the iconic vehicle. These days, a running Type 2 Transporter can be purchased at auction for prices ranging from about $25,000 up to well over $100,000. For those looking for a super-functional vintage ride, the Volkswagen Transporter is sure to usher in some good feels and fun road trips.