1971 Volkswagen Kombi

A genuinely usable classic — not a project, not a leaky nostalgia trap, and not one of those Kombis that needs a mechanic on speed dial. This 1971 Lowlight has the vintage soul you want with the practical upgrades you actually need. Loved, sorted, and set up for real family adventures, it’s the rare Kombi you can confidently take on a South Island road trip.

1971 is the “Goldilocks year” for Bay Windows: the last of the Early Bays with iconic lowlight styling, and the first with factory front disc brakes for safer, more predictable stopping in wintertime or on wet roads.

Highlights

• Fresh WOF & Rego (expires March 2027)
• 1600cc single carb engine: starts first pop, runs cleanly and reliably; aftermarket exhaust with a great note
• Cruises happily at 95 km/h; tackles hills confidently
• New door & window seals — no leaks, no damp smell, no need to sleep with a raincoat on
• Minimal rust; repainted 8 years ago and always garaged
• Factory front discs
• Vintage awning included
• Three Just Kampers sliding windows — no leaky quarter lights, excellent airflow
• Insulated interior: cooler in summer, warmer on alpine mornings, reduced condensation and road noise
• Mould-free pop-top with smooth mechanism and massive 6’7” standing room
• 4-berth layout: – Full-width Rock’n’Roll bed (2 adults) – Pop-top hammock (child ~6) – Front cab hammock (child ~4)

• Kids really loved the bunks when small; new owner could easily get stronger versions made for bigger kids

A clean, mechanically strong, genuinely usable family camper with the expensive rust-prone areas already addressed. Not a show van, but a reliable, charming classic you won’t be afraid to take to the beach or on a long road trip. It sits in that sweet spot where vintage appeal meets real-world practicality.

This is rare, turn-key 1971 Lowlight ready for its next family adventure. Genuine reason for sale: redirecting funds toward an overseas holiday - otherwise we would have kept it.

Location: Christchurch (Mount Pleasant) Viewing by appointment