The 1978 VW Campmobile...

Volkswagen described the Westfalia Campmobile as "having a cottage that goes anywhere you want to go", and that really is true. Wilson is my home away from home, and I enjoy every chance I can get to take him camping. Even outside of camping, it’s nice to know I always have a place to sleep when I’m traveling. The sink, electric hook-up, and icebox provide the basic amenities for a weekend. The bus sleeps two comfortably with the fold down z-bed. VW claimed 4-5 could sleep in the Campmobile, but that would be a tight squeeze, even with kids. I like the pop-up top because it adds a lot of head room. I'd guess 7' at the tallest point.

The Volkswagen camper has always been a symbol of freedom to me. Freedom to go where you want to go, and stay for as long as you need to stay. Sure, you could get a huge RV and live like royalty, but you can't duplicate the personality and happiness a Volkswagen provides. I receive smiles and waves from complete strangers on almost every trip, not to mention the other VW drivers I see along the way. I wouldn't trade Wilson for any other driving experience.

For the record, here are the specifications and features of the 1978 VW Westfalia Campmobile...

Westfalia Models:

• Standard (P-21)
• Pastel White (L90D), Orange plaid
• Bench converts to double bed
• Swing-around front passenger seat
• Clothes closet with mirror
• 7 storage areas
• Large dining room table
• Sink with running water
• 5.8 gal water tank
• Icebox
• 110-volt external receptacle
• Curtains
• Louvered side windows w/screens
• Read door screen
• Insulated panelled walls
• Fluorescent ceiling light
• Wall to wall loop carpeting
• Spare tire
• Pop-Up (P-22)
• Sage Green (L63H), Green plaid
• All of the features of the Standard P-21 model, plus...
• Fiberglass pop-up top
• Weather-resistant canvas sides
• Screened window with zipper flap
• Double bed with mattress
• Luggage rack
• Deluxe Pop-up (P-31)
• Dakota Beige (L13A), Beige & Brown plaid
• All of the features of the Standard P-21 model, plus...
• Fiberglass pop-up top
• Weather-resistant canvas sides
• Screened window with zipper flap
• Double bed with mattress
• Luggage rack
• Upholstered storage container
• 12v refrigerator (replaces icebox)
• Gas stove
• Outside water hook-up
• Snack table

Specifications:

• Make: Volkswagen (VW)
• Model: Type2 Transporter (T2)
• Engine: Air-cooled, rear mounted
• Cylinders: 4 cylinders
• Displacement: 1970cc / 2.0L
• Lifters: hydraulic
• Net HP: 67 @ 4200 RPM
• Fuel: Bosch L-Jetronic F.I.
• Ignition: Coil, Distributor
• # Speeds: 4 forward, 1 reverse
• Final Drive: Rear wheel drive
• Clutch: Single-disc, dry
• Frame: Unitized body chassis
• Rim Size: 5-1/2Jx14
• Tire Size: 185 SR 14
• Steering: Roller type
• Wheelbase: 95.5"
• Length: 177.4"
• Width: 67.7"
• Height: 81.0"
• Ground Clearance: 7.9"
• Turning Circle: 37.1'
• Curb Weight: 3,300 lbs
• MPG: 17-25
• Top Speed: 75 mph
• Acceleration: 50 mph 13.9 sec
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.6 gal
• Engine Oil Capacity w/ Filter: 3.7 qt
• Engine Oil Capacity w/o Filter: 3.2 qt
• Manual Transmission Capacity: 3.7 qt
• Windsheild Washer Capacity; 1.5 qt
• MSRP (Campmobile): $8,570

Standard Features:

• Four-wheel independent suspension
• Front stabilizer
• Steel belted radial tires
• Power assisted brakes
• Front vent windows
• Dual outside mirrors
• Padded dashboard
• Electric fresh air ventilation
• Auxiliary heater
• Day/night inside rear view mirror
• Walk-through aisle
• Sliding side door
• Rear window defogger

Optional Features

• Air conditioner
• Fog lamps
• Bumper overriders
• Trailer hitch
• AM/FM/Radio/Tapeplayer
• Roof carrier
• Floor mats