1972 Volkswagen Devon Camper – Exceptionally Original, Just 60,000 Miles
Originally supplied as a Tintop Panel Van before being professionally converted by Devon into a camper, this exceptional Bay Window has enjoyed a truly cherished life. With just four previous owners (including the current owner), it is an increasingly rare survivor.
A later Bilbo's elevating roof has been fitted, providing comfortable sleeping accommodation for two adults. A useful Westfalia-style roof rack above the cab completes the classic touring look.
HISTORY & PROVENANCE
Supplied new by Royal Berks Motor Company, Reading on 1st June 1972, this camper is accompanied by an impressive history file including:
Original dealer wallet and owner's manuals.
MOT certificates dating back to its first test in 1976 through to recent years.
Numerous invoices and service receipts.
Documented mileage supporting the genuine just under 60,000 miles from new.
The van remains in its original factory red colour. It has benefited from a sympathetic repaint inside and out during its lifetime, but remarkably has never required any welding, and none is currently needed.
The second owner was Shiplake Motors near Henley, whose proprietor clearly cherished the vehicle. Stored indoors, regularly polished and meticulously maintained, this camper demonstrates that genuinely rust-free UK Bay Windows do still exist when they have led a pampered life.
This is exactly that—an honest, low-mileage, rust-free survivor.
MECHANICAL SPECIFICATION
Power comes from Volkswagen's desirable Type 4 engine, now professionally upgraded by G'day Kombis to 1911cc, FLY CUT original 1700 heads which are sort after. elephants feet adjusters, breathing through genuine Italian FRDA Dell'Orto carburettors and finished with a Vintage Speed stainless steel exhaust system.
The steering box has already been professionally rebuilt and is exceptionally smooth in operation.
power steering professionally installed by G'day Kombis.
OUR PREPARATION PROGRAMME
Once a deposit has been received, we carry out our comprehensive mechanical preparation programme.
This includes:
Engine removal.
Replacement of all major engine oil seals.
Powder coating of all engine tinware.
New E10-compliant fuel lines.
UK-manufactured E10 fuel filler neck and breather system.
Careful refitting of the engine.
Full inspection and optimisation of the heating system.
Major service.
Fresh MOT.
Final sale preparation and extensive road testing.
INTERIOR
The interior is where this camper truly stands apart.
Rather than retaining a standard factory Devon layout, this vehicle features an exquisite bespoke handcrafted timber interior, individually built specifically for this camper. It is not an off-the-shelf conversion.
The craftsmanship, quality of materials, finish and even the aroma of the timber create an ambience that few original interiors—however well preserved—can hope to match.
UPHOLSTERY
The trimming work was entrusted to the highly respected Bromsgrove Trimmers, who completed:
New Bilbo's roof canvas.
New headlining.
All new seat foams.
Bespoke front and rear upholstery.
The finish throughout is simply outstanding and presents as virtually new.
DRIVING ENVIRONMENT
Open the driver's door and you are greeted by a beautifully painted dashboard complemented by a RetroSound stereo. While period in appearance, it offers all the modern conveniences including:
Bluetooth audio streaming.
Hands-free phone connectivity.
DAB digital radio.
It perfectly combines classic aesthetics with modern usability.
BUILT BY AN ENTHUSIAST
Beginning with such an exceptional low-mileage, low-owner example and then commissioning some of the most respected names in the Volkswagen world has resulted in what can only be described as the previous owner's ultimate Bay Window camper.
Having owned several Bay Windows over the years, he knew exactly what he wanted—and it shows in every detail.
THE G'DAY KOMBIS DIFFERENCE
Every vehicle we sell undergoes the same meticulous preparation once sold.
Our standard pre-delivery programme includes:
Brand new MOT.
Any MOT advisories rectified before collection.
Full photographic record of all work carried out for provenance and peace of mind.
Comprehensive major service.
Engine removal.
Replacement flywheel oil seal.
Replacement gearbox input shaft seal.
New clutch assembly.
Removal of firewall and fuel tank.
Replacement of all fuel filler rubbers and breather hoses with E10-compliant components.
New fuel sender unit and seal.
New biofuel-compatible E10 fuel lines throughout.
Extensive road testing by our experienced classic Volkswagen technicians.
Every vehicle is supplied with:
6-month in-house warranty
Ongoing servicing, MOTs and upgrade facilities
Support from a company specialising exclusively in air-cooled Volkswagens for over 21 years
As proud Members of The Motor Ombudsman, all of our working practices comply with Trading Standards guidance, giving you complete confidence that your legal rights as a purchaser are fully protected.
If you're searching for an exceptionally original, genuinely low-mileage Bay Window that has been tastefully enhanced without losing its character, this beautifully prepared Devon Camper represents a rare opportunity.
