Built between 1980 and 1992 the VW T25 or T3 was the replacement for the Bay or T2 camper. Originally launched with air-cooled engines these soon made way for the more powerful water-cooled units available in diesel form as a straight four or petrol as a flat four. Other than engines perhaps the biggest alteration throughout their production was the shift from single round headlights to twin rectangle units and change to big bumpers from 1989 onwards.
All T25’s share the common characteristics of being easy to drive with that clever combination of being compact yet roomy. With willing engines providing reasonable economy, they really are versatile classic VW campers that can be used everyday or for holidays only.
But how do you choose the right T25 for you?
In most cases this will come down to personal preference and usage. For example some people prefer the round headlights to the square ones, and while some vans will be used everyday others will be used for a few months in the summer only. Below is a brief guide to the most common variations and options for consideration when buying a camper of your own.
To Pop or Not
This is perhaps the biggest consideration as it has an affect on number of berths, storage space, and vehicle storage. Most pop-tops are 4-berth and in the case of the water-cooled T25’s solid sided also. Fixed tops can be either low or high and 2-berth or 4-berth respectively. The major benefit of the pop-top is that they are compact on the move and more likely to fit in garages and car ports, while the fixed top allows for a lot more permanent storage space and requires no setting up time on site.
Petrol or Diesel
This is really a question of power vs. economy and again comes down to how you are planning on using your camper. For example if using everyday or for long distance European tours then diesel may be easier on the pocket. That said nothing quite covers the miles like a good 2.1 petrol. For most though the 1.9 petrol is a good middle ground of power and economy.
Air-cooled or Water-cooled
Sounds strange but this will have more of a bearing on the campervan than just engine type. As only the earliest T25’s were air-cooled they will also be the earliest conversions, therefore these vans may be a little less well equipped. That aside, in general the air-cooled engines are slightly less powerful and economical than the water-cooled versions.
Automatic or Manual
An auto box is the ultimate indulgence for easy motoring or for when changing gear is too physical. Of the manual boxes, the 4-speed is the more intuitive as with its dog leg first gear the 5-speed can be tricky to get used to. That said within a few miles it soon becomes second nature and allows for more relaxed cruising.
Equipment Levels
If you are looking at buying a T25 camper then the chances are it’s because you want to go camping. That might sound obvious although it’s important you don’t loose sight of what the van is to be used for. The majority come with twin gas hob and grill, cold water supply, and a 2 or 3 way fridge as standard, which is fine for most uses although for all year round use heating may also be important. Other things to consider are Zig control units, water heaters, leisure batteries and onboard waste tanks which all make life easier and can add value.
Conversions
Many companies have offered conversions of T25’s over the years, varying in both quality and layout. Most opted to run the campers fixtures and fittings along the drivers side (RHD vehicles), resulting in a bench seat dining arrangement and ¾ width bed. Although Autosleepers and Holdsworth also offered conversions that provided U-shape dining and a full width bed. Again this is one of those elements that will come down to personal choice as will upholstery and cupboard finish.
Misc
In addition to the above major considerations and variances there are lots of other items that could have been specified on a T25 camper. That’s said as they were mainly converted from panel vans and not Caravelles these tend to be limited to captains seats, swivel front seats, power assisted steering, central locking, opening quarter lights etc. All of which add value as are rare but are not essential in the enjoyment of your camper.
For more guidance on what to look for when buying a T25 why not read our T25 buyers guide
If you have any questions relating to the above or want to view some campers to gauge which would suit you best, then contact us.