Volkswagen Bay-Window Camper
The Volkswagen Type 2 Bay-Window is the usable, practical successor to the iconic Split-Window bus. It remains a cornerstone of the 'van life' movement, with a wide market that spans from affordable projects to highly-prized Westfalia camper conversions.
Volkswagen Bay-Window Camper sold for a median of $16,732 over the last 12 months, based on 55 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $12,106 and $21,259. 520 currently for sale.
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Seen across 8 sites in the last 30 days.
Volkswagen Bay-Window Camper prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1968 | $22k | – | 3 | 25 |
| 1969 | $21k | $16k–$26k | 8 | 39 |
| 1970 | $21k | $20k–$22k | 4 | 48 |
| 1971 | $15k | $13k–$18k | 15 | 75 |
| 1972 | $15k | $11k–$19k | 27 | 59 |
| 1973 | $18k | $11k–$24k | 11 | 48 |
| 1974 | $15k | $9.3k–$19k | 22 | 47 |
| 1975 | $22k | $13k–$24k | 9 | 21 |
| 1976 | $23k | $20k–$26k | 5 | 28 |
| 1977 | $22k | $14k–$26k | 7 | 35 |
| 1978 | $18k | $15k–$23k | 23 | 51 |
| 1979 | $19k | $13k–$21k | 14 | 32 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The Type 2 'Bay-Window' Bus replaced the iconic 'Split-Window' in 1968, bringing significant updates like a single-piece windshield, improved suspension, and more powerful engines. Produced in Germany until 1979 and in other markets like Brazil for decades longer, these buses became synonymous with counter-culture travel and adventure. Their simple, air-cooled mechanics and practical camper layouts, especially from Westfalia, made them accessible and versatile.
Collectors are drawn to the Bay-Window for its classic looks and the lifestyle it represents. Unlike many collector vehicles, these are meant to be used for road trips and camping, which fuels a strong enthusiast community. The most desirable examples are factory-built Westfalia campers with well-preserved interiors and original equipment, which command a significant premium over standard panel vans or DIY conversions.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the biggest concern. Thoroughly inspect the floors, rocker panels, wheel arches, battery tray, and the areas around the front and rear window seals.
- Check the air-cooled engine for crankshaft end play by pulling and pushing on the main pulley; any noticeable movement is a red flag for a required rebuild.
- Inspect all camper-specific features. Ensure the pop-top mechanism works smoothly and the canvas is free of rips. Test any original sinks, stoves, or refrigerators, as sourcing parts can be difficult.
- Authenticate factory Westfalia models. Look for the correct M-codes on the VIN plate and check for details like the specific interior fabrics, cabinetry, and pop-top styles appropriate for the year.
- Drive the bus at various speeds to feel for sloppy steering, which often indicates a worn steering box, a common and costly repair.
1,358 Volkswagen Bay-Window Camper vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 520 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Volkswagen Bay-Window Camper cost?
Over the last 12 months, Volkswagen Bay-Window Camper sold for a median of $16,732 across 55 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $12,106 and $21,259. There are 520 currently for sale.
How many Volkswagen Bay-Window Camper listings are for sale right now?
There are 520 Volkswagen Bay-Window Camper listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.