1968 Volkswagen Vanagon: A Detailed Overview
The 1968 Volkswagen Vanagon, often referred to as the Type 2 or Kombi (short for Kombinationskraftwagen, meaning "combination vehicle"), represents a significant year in the evolution of this iconic and incredibly versatile vehicle. While the name "Vanagon" was officially adopted by Volkswagen later in the series (for the T3 generation starting in the early 1980s), the 1968 model year falls squarely within the Second Generation (T2) of the Transporter family, which ran from 1967 to 1979. This generation marked a substantial redesign and improvement over the beloved but dated First Generation (T1).
Key Developments and Significance of the 1968 Model Year:
- The Dawn of the T2: The 1968 model year was the second year of production for the T2 generation, meaning many of the initial kinks of the brand-new design had been addressed. This was a pivotal moment for Volkswagen as they updated their beloved "Bus" to meet evolving safety standards and customer demands.
- Evolution, Not Revolution (from T1): While a major redesign, the T2 maintained the familiar rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and the overall utilitarian and friendly aesthetic of its predecessor. The key improvements focused on safety, comfort, and practicality.
- The "Bay Window" Era Begins: This generation is famously known as the "Bay Window" Bus due to the significantly larger, wraparound windshield – a stark contrast to the T1's split "split-screen" windshield. This offered vastly improved visibility for the driver.
Design and Features:
- Exterior:
- "Bay Window" Windshield: The most defining feature. A single, large, curved windshield replaced the split windshield of the T1, dramatically improving driver visibility and giving the vehicle a more modern, albeit less "cute," appearance.
- Rounded Styling: The T2 softened the sharp edges of the T1, with more rounded corners and a generally sleeker profile.
- Larger Overall Size: The T2 was slightly larger than the T1, offering more interior space.
- Sliding Side Door: A key improvement for practicality, the T2 featured a sliding side door for easier access to the passenger compartment and cargo area. The T1 had a hinged door.
- Front Turn Signals: Moved from the top of the front fenders to the front grille area, integrated into the headlights, a nod to improved safety and modern design.
- Wider Wheelbase: Contributed to improved stability and handling.
- Engine Compartment: Still located at the rear, accessible via a large engine lid.
- Interior:
- Improved Dashboard: A more modern and ergonomically designed dashboard featured a larger, central instrument cluster with a speedometer, fuel gauge, and warning lights.
- More Spacious Cabin: The larger dimensions and improved interior packaging provided more legroom and storage options.
- Seating Configurations: The 1968 Vanagon was available in numerous configurations, catering to diverse needs:
- Panel Van: Primarily for commercial use, with solid rear body panels and minimal interior trim.
- Kombi/Bus: The standard passenger version, typically with bench seats for multiple occupants.
- Microbus: Often featuring more comfortable seating, windows all around, and sometimes a more refined interior.
- Camper (Westfalia): Arguably the most iconic variant. These models, often outfitted by Westfalia-Werke, included built-in camping amenities like a pop-top roof, a small kitchenette (sink, stove), fold-down beds, and storage cabinets, turning the van into a fully functional camper.
- Storage: Under-seat storage, door pockets, and the large cargo area provided ample room for gear.
Powertrain and Mechanicals:
- Engine: The 1968 T2 continued to use an air-cooled, horizontally opposed four-cylinder boxer engine mounted in the rear. For 1968, the engine size was typically around 1.5 liters (1493cc), producing approximately 50 horsepower. This was an increase from the earlier T1 engines.
- Transmission: A four-speed manual transmission was standard, sending power to the rear wheels. An automatic transmission (Volkswagen's original "Automatic Stickshift") was also an option, though less common.
- Suspension: Independent front suspension with torsion bars and a swing axle rear suspension were carried over from the T1, but with refinements for better ride quality and handling.
- Braking: Drum brakes were standard on all four wheels. Disc brakes at the front became standard on T2s from 1967 onwards in many markets, representing a significant safety improvement.
Performance and Driving Experience:
- Performance: While not a speed demon, the 1968 Vanagon offered adequate performance for its intended purpose. Acceleration was leisurely, and highway cruising was best enjoyed at moderate speeds.
- Handling: The rear-engine layout contributed to a unique handling characteristic. While generally predictable, the weight distribution could lead to oversteer if pushed too hard. The larger size and improved suspension of the T2 offered a more stable and comfortable ride than the T1.
- Fuel Economy: As with most air-cooled Volkswagens of the era, fuel economy was respectable for its size and class.
- Noise: The rear-mounted, air-cooled engine produced a distinctive and often noisy rumble, a characteristic sound that many enthusiasts embrace.
Cultural Impact and Legacy:
The 1968 Volkswagen Vanagon (T2) solidified the Transporter's reputation as a versatile, reliable, and endearing vehicle. It became a symbol of freedom, adventure, and counter-culture movements. Its spacious interior and camper variants made it a popular choice for families, travelers, and those seeking a mobile lifestyle. The "Bay Window" Bus is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for its classic design, adaptability, and the nostalgic experiences it represents.
In summary, the 1968 Volkswagen Vanagon represents a significant evolutionary step for Volkswagen's iconic Transporter. It retained the spirit of adventure and utility of its predecessor while introducing crucial improvements in safety, comfort, and design, ushering in the celebrated "Bay Window" era and continuing its legacy as one of the most beloved and adaptable vehicles ever produced.