1976 Volkswagen 182 Trekker

Anyone familiar with WW2 stories and films of derring- do featuring the likes of Messrs McQueen, Ford and Eastwood, will have happy memories of enemy Kubelwagons somersaulting across the scenery in a hail of machine gun fire and high explosives. In more placid times we find the Kurierwagen in Germany or the Trekker in the UK, usually making more peaceful progress, often up some muddy track. Very much VW Beetle orientated, but with the slightly wider Karmann Ghia floorpan, which gives plenty of space for 4 passengers often in roofless al-fresco style. This then is the answer to the British Mini Moke and the Citroen Mehari from France, all very popular amongst the more masculine of motorists.

In a previous life, this 182 Trekker earnt its keep as a Safari car in Indonesia. Now it resides in Dorset and could be improved cosmetically. The bodywork is sound and solid and was the subject of a respray some six years ago, but there are some signs of rust. The underside is also sound, but may benefit from an application of rustproofing wax. The bumpers too could be freshened up and with regards to the interior, the driver’s seat in particular requires attention. The custom made hood requires replacement, but an original frame is supplied.

Mechanically however, we understand that the vehicle is in good order; an engine overhaul was carried out two years ago and the VW has covered few miles since. The front brakes have been converted to discs and we are informed that the drive shafts are new, but it may be beneficial to replace the steering bushes. The wheel and tyres are in good condition.

A good basis for a solid vehicle then, which would be ideal as a rustic runabout for the countryside, but equally eminently suitable for some further refinement and polishing. The V5C registration certificate is supplied.

Auction Date: 8 September 2022