Campervans have exploded in popularity in 2020 as a result of the pandemic and many people are realizing what a good investment they can be and the perks of opting for a staycation as opposed to travelling abroad.
There are lots of excellent options for camper vans to choose from and Comfort Insurance recently looked at 10 of the most popular classic models throughout history.
1. VW T2 Samba
VW obviously is a pioneer when it comes to campervans with the T2 Samba from 1964 being the ultimate classic campervan. The iconic vehicle has superb retro looks, a wider rear door, side pivot doors and all-round roof windows for extra natural light inside.
2. BMC Princess
The BMC Princess from 1967 is a striking model which became popular due to its unique, hearse-like design, interior space and performance with features like power steering and automatic transmission (a rarity in campervans at the time).
3. VW T2 Westfalia
The Westfalia from VW in 73 is another classic with its pop-top above the front cab and an interior with a double bed, kitchen and living area and plenty of storage space.
4. Bedford CF250 Dormobile Landcruiser
A British classic from 1978, the Dormobile became a popular choice thanks to its impressive interior which features a double bed, kitchen, fridge-freezer, chemical toilet and storage space.
5. Ford Transit Mk2
The Transit Mk2 from Ford in 79 proved highly popular as the iconic all-purpose van benefited from a motorhome exterior placed on the chassis to provide a sleeping area above the cab and a kitchen, living area, toilet and even a wet room in the rear.
6. VW T2 Devon
Yet another VW this time from 1979, the T2 Devon is one of the longest-lasting campervans around and a treat to see on the roads. The pop-top roof provides additional headroom in the kitchen and lounge while the double bed and space for a few hammocks allows groups to travel together. Crucially, the performance is much better than older models which is partly why it has lasted.
7. Dodge B250 Ram Sportsmobile
The impressive Ram from Dodge in 1985 boasts a remarkable interior with two double beds and space for a hammock along with a kitchen and dining area which made it a great choice for families.
8. VW T25 Hightop
VW’s success continued into the 80’s with the 86 Hightop with a much higher roof without the need for a pop-top along with an impressive 1.9 turbo diesel engine for a performance upgrade.
9. Mazda Bongo
A modern classic, the 99 Mazda Bongo was a more cost-effective alternative to a VW with ample interior space, a much more powerful and reliable engine and all the amenities that you need in a campervan.
10. VW Kombi
The VW Kombi allows people to enjoy the retro charm of VW’s iconic campervans but with modern upgrades, including updates to meet modern driving and safety standards. The VW Combi is often produced as a bus but there are conversions available.
These are the 10 most popular classic campervans throughout history which have influenced all those that followed.