Lot Ended
Description
Showing 190,942 kilometers; genuine
factory-built LHD Westfalia Joker; 1,570cc turbo diesel engine producing around
70bhp and paired with a manual gearbox; current V5C records just one former
keeper; driven to the sale
First registered in the UK in March 2013, but
originally manufactured in November 1987, this Volkswagen T25 left hand drive
Westfalia Joker represents the final definitive era of the highly regarded
"Joker" nameplate before Volkswagen and Westfalia transitioned European
production to the California and Atlantic models. Powered by the economical
1,570cc turbo diesel engine producing around 70bhp and paired with a manual
gearbox, it offers the character and practicality for which the T25 camper has
become renowned. Showing 190,942 kilometers, it appears to have been well cared
for throughout its life.
The Volkswagen Westfalia Joker was introduced
during the T3 (T25) era as one of the most comprehensively equipped
factory-built camper conversions available from Volkswagen and Westfalia. Built
by the renowned Westfalia-Werke company in Germany, the Joker combined
Volkswagen's versatile rear-engined Transporter with a purpose-designed camper
interior that set the benchmark for practicality, durability and
innovation.
Offering sleeping accommodation, kitchen facilities, storage
and touring comforts in a compact package, the Joker became a favourite amongst
European holidaymakers and long-distance travellers. By the late 1980s, it
represented the pinnacle of the classic T3 camper range before the Joker name
was gradually replaced by the California and Atlantic models. Today, genuine
factory-built Westfalia Jokers are highly sought after by enthusiasts, prized
for their authenticity, clever interior design and status as one of the most
iconic camper vans ever produced.
What makes this example particularly appealing
is that it is a genuine factory-built Westfalia Joker, identified by its
factory-stamped data plates, Westfalia production features and purpose-designed
interior installed by Westfalia-Werke in Germany rather than by an aftermarket
converter. The current V5C records just one former keeper.
The vehicle benefits from the
classic Westfalia layout, featuring a rear seat which converts into a
rock-and-roll bed, a side kitchen unit incorporating a fridge, stainless steel
sink and twin-burner gas hob, together with a rear wardrobe and storage unit.
Further factory camping features include fresh and wastewater systems, LPG
provision, double-glazed Westfalia windows and the iconic pop-top roof with
additional upper sleeping accommodation.
The vendor advises that all the onboard camping
equipment was functioning correctly when the vehicle was last used on an
extended trip to France during late Spring 2022. Upon returning to the UK, the
camper was reportedly placed directly into storage, where it remained until
being consigned for sale.
Importantly, the camper underwent a substantial
restoration in 2022, with invoices totaling in excess of £15,000 for bodywork
refurbishment and repainting. The result is a notably smart example which has
clearly benefitted from significant investment and ongoing
care.
Accompanying the camper is a useful history
file including the V5C, MOT valid until July 2027, six previous MOT
certificates, the original German handbook and a collection of invoices. The
vehicle was driven to the sale and has been starting and moving under its own
power on site during the photography and video process.
Increasingly sought after by
enthusiasts, genuine factory-built Westfalia Jokers are regarded as some of the
most desirable variants of the Volkswagen T3. Combining authentic Westfalia
provenance, low ownership, extensive recent restoration work and a highly
practical, well-equipped camper interior, this is a rare opportunity to acquire
a collectible example of one of Europe's most iconic camper
vans.
Contact:
david.tassell@brightwells.com