As the name suggests, at 25seven Camper Hire we only Hire VW T25 campers... here’s why.
The VW T25 Transporter (also known a the T3, Type 25 or Vangon), is gaining popularity amongst VW enthusiasts, something that a quick walk round any of the classic VW shows will confirm. But what is it about the VW T3 camper that makes them so attractive?
There's no denying that a good condition splitscreen or bay camper is perhaps the more obvious choice, but there's something about the Volkswagen T3 camper that has gained it its own cult status. Some may say it's down to cost, as good condition bays break the £15k mark and splitties can reach twice that. Although with the prices of quality converted VW T25 campers creeping up that may no longer be the case.
We think there’s more to it than that…perhaps it's best to start at the beginning.
Introduced in 1979 as a replacement to the Bay window, the T25 retained the classic overall layout and was to become the last of the rear engine Volkswagen vans. Launched with the same air-cooled flat-four engine that had powered earlier VW vans, within three years they were to make way for the more powerful water-cooled flat-four units to compliment the already optional straight-four diesel options. While the water-cooled engines may not appeal to the die hard air-cooled fraternity, they are more powerful yet still retain the same distinctive VW noise.
Larger than the earlier vans, the T25 is no taller than the bay that proceeded it although is 5 inches longer and 2.5 inches wider. This increased space made it more practical though no harder to drive thanks to increased visibility all round. Perhaps the biggest change in terms of dimensions was the lowering of the rear deck by 5.7 inches and the moving of the spare wheel from inside the vehicle to under the front of the cab. The combination of which resulted in more usable internal space, something which camper conversion companies soon made the most of.
Volkswagen also made improvements to the ride and handling with the addition of coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers all round. Much like the production cars of today, this development also meant the turning circle was reduced.
Production of the T25 finally ceased in 1992 where it made way for the T4 with Volkswagens new direction of front engine layout vans.
But what does all this mean to you and me?
Well in our view the VW T25 camper holds a well deserved classic status in terms of its looks and heritage. A status that cleverly hides an altogether more modern and easier vehicle to live with. Through a combination of its iconic looks, flexible engines, improved suspension and greater internal space, we feel that the VW T25 camper really is the ideal choice for classic VW camping.
Why not find out for yourself just how versatile a camper the VW T3 transporter is, and we guarantee you'll make some new friends along the way.