• Seller: Luther P owell
• Location: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
• Mileage: 91,000 Shown
• Chassis #: 2332176054
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 2000 CC
• Transmission: 4-Speed Manual

There are many ways you can escape daily life’s hustle and bustle. Some choose to camp in the great outdoors in a tent, while others seek five-star luxury. This 1973 Volkswagen Westfalia represents an excellent compromise. This beautifully preserved survivor offers greater comfort than most people experience with a tent but is a more flexible option than a resort or a cabin. It presents beautifully for its age, and its interior fittings are in first-class condition. Adding to its appeal are its known history and meticulous maintenance. The current owner has enjoyed all it offers and feels it is time for someone to share that experience. Therefore, he has listed the Westfalia exclusively with us on Barn Finds Auctions.

A known history is always desirable with any classic, and this Westfalia ticks that box. The seller is only its second owner, stating that it has been garaged and pampered its entire life. Apart from the occasional touch-up, its Code L20E Orange paint is original. The presentation and overall condition are well above average for a survivor of this vintage. The paint holds a fantastic shine, with no evidence of patchiness or other problems. No major flaws or faults exist, and the sheltered existence has left the Volkswagen rust-free. These classics feature large panel surfaces, making bumps and bruises almost inevitable. There are minor blemishes, but as with the paint, they are so insignificant that they do not require attention. The Volkswagen might not be showroom fresh, but its condition commands respect as a survivor. The trim looks exceptional, with the Westfalia sporting shiny new bumpers. The new retro-style roof rack is a practical addition and can be located anywhere along the roofline to suit the winning bidder’s taste or requirements. The windshield is new, the remaining glass is crystal clear, and the Jalousie side windows and screens keep the fresh air flowing when the new owner parks up for the evening.

The news with this classic gets better the further we dig. Its drivetrain is typical Volkswagen fare, with a rear-mounted, air-cooled, flat-four engine sending its power to the road via a four-speed manual transmission. It spent over thirty years in the hands of a VW mechanic and is as fresh as a daisy following a long list of recent work. The vehicle has clocked 91,000 original miles, with only 3,000 accumulated since the 2,000cc powerplant was rebuilt. The work is fully documented and included a new clutch. The owner didn’t stop there because the brakes received new lines, shoes, pads, and rotors. The final puzzle piece is the tires, which have only 3,500 miles under their treads. Potential buyers can consider this gem a turnkey proposition. It runs and drives as well as it did when it rolled off the line and is ready to hit the road with a new owner behind the wheel. The owner says it will sit at 75mph all day, making light work of long journeys. The original Owner’s Manual and other included documentation adds to its appeal.

The driver’s compartment reflects the care this classic has received better than any other area. The White vinyl upholstered surfaces are stunning, with no evidence of wear, staining, or yellowing. The Black floor mat is spotless, and the paint is fantastic for its age. The dash hasn’t succumbed to age or UV exposure, and the additional VDO gauges help the driver monitor the wonderful little flat-four. The leather-wrapped wheel will reduce fatigue on long journeys, and there are some other updates to make life more pleasant. The extended shifter makes selecting ratios easier, while the stereo with its flip-out screen provides tunes on the move and phone connectivity and is hooked to a reversing camera to make parking a breeze.

Ignoring the Volkswagen’s rear accommodation is impossible because it is the Westfalia’s defining feature. It is worth scrolling through the image gallery because the condition is incredible, especially considering everything is original and unrestored. The cabinets are exceptional, with no physical damage or evidence of delamination. The carpet is spotless, and there is no worn upholstery. The doors open and shut as they should, and the inside of every cupboard is in as-new condition. The correct hangers and other items are intact, and the interior features an excellent front cabin sleeping cot. The rear fold-out bed works perfectly, and this gem features a rear snap-in screen to allow the door to be left open on warm nights without occupants suffering at the hands of mosquitoes. The front curtains are perfect, providing privacy for the occupants. An external coupling provides easy connection to a 110-volt outlet, with the fridge and sink making it self-contained. Every light and feature works as it should, allowing the winning bidder to enjoy this classic immediately.

At the end of a long day’s travel, even the most seasoned holidaymakers look forward to some downtime to recharge their batteries. There are three common alternatives, and each offers advantages and disadvantages. Landing in a five-star resort is lovely, but that leaves you tied to a single location and is typically the most expensive option. Camping provides the most freedom, but most people don’t find pitching a tent and the associated chores attractive at the end of a long day on the road. This 1973 Volkswagen Westfalia effectively treads the middle ground. Like camping, if the owner doesn’t like their location, they can move to somewhere more appealing. Unlike camping, setup involves little more than turning off the ignition and hooking up the power. And unlike the five-star alternative, that process won’t eat into the holiday budget. That is why this classic deserves a closer look.

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