1978 Volkswagen Bus/Vanagon

Wagon

4-cylinder, horizontally-opposed, Fuel injection

Manual

2282101704

Clear

Gasoline

The Champagne editions of certain Volkswagen vehicles were special sales campaign vehicles released in 1977 and 1978, featuring limited edition colors and interiors. Due to the popularity of the Champagne editions of several 1977 vehicles, Volkswagen repeated the sales campaign in 1978, with these vehicles referred to as Champagne edition II models. Champagne editions of the seven-seat Minibus are the only VW buses with chrome bumpers and a dashboard clock. This classic seven passenger 78’ VW Bus has been very well maintained over the years with just three owners (including us). We purchased it in 1990. During the 23 years this fun bus has been in our possession, it has never been used as a primary vehicle, but used exclusively for recreation. The bus is in excellent running condition, and the dashboard clock is still keeping correct time ! The engine – the most important part -- is the original, and is air cooled by a cooling fan connected to the engine crankshaft. The four-cylinder horizontally-opposed engine displaces 1970 cc and has electronically controlled fuel injection and self-adjusting hydraulic valves. The cylinder bore is 94 mm and the crankshaft stroke is 71 mm. The compression ratio is 7.3 to 1 and the output is 67 hp at 4,200 rpm and 101 foot-pounds of torque at 3,000 rpm. This bus has impressive power, and is able to scale steep grades with relative ease. A recent tune-up (April 2013) replaced the battery, plugs, wires, distribution cap & rotor, and gave it a fresh oil change and filter. Also in April 2013, this bus passed the Virginia State Inspection, which means all tires, brakes (including parking brake), lights, signals, wipers, mirrors, suspension, horn, exhaust, windshield, etc. are safe and fully operational. The bus starts easily, and every time, and runs very smooth through its four-speed manual transmission. Also, the original owner’s manual is in the glove box. Originally, this bus had a two-tone datenut brown and tan exterior. We had it refinished in the solid forest green that it is today. The new paint has held up well over the years, although there are a few minor rust spots (visible in pics). The interior is the original beige and sienna two-tone corduroy with a saddle brown plastic dash panel. The original radio has been replaced with a Kenwood CD-AM/FM stereo (box speakers located under the rear bench). A trailer hitch has been added to the back (we had a small trailer for camping gear). It is also important to note that the middle passenger bench has been removed and is not available, although it can easily be replaced. At present, it can seat 5 people with seatbelts. It is also important to note that the driver’s side seat cover is substantially worn. The seat, however, is fully functional. We use a removable seat cover for improved comfort. This 1978 VW mini bus is crowd pleaser, and always a pleasure to drive. Versatile, spacious, comfortable, and best of all, reliable, the opportunity for years of classic VW enjoyment are yours for the taking. Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4