The Volkswagen Microbus was one of the earliest vehicles to be offered as a camper from the factory. Promoted as 'the handiest, handsomest motorized house you could possibly wish to enjoy', the Westfalia was equipped with two upholstered bench seats that converted into a bed, a front seat that could be configured to sleep children, a wardrobe and storage space. Its specially designed tent significantly increased the living area.

Known as specifically as the SO or “sonderausfuhrungen,” translating to “special equipment,” the Westfailia made the practical Microbus into a perfect vehicle for camping or long excursions. Two models were available from 1961 through 1965, the SO-34 and the SO-35. The SO-34 was a laminated white interior while the SO-35 was a finished wood interior.

The is particular example is the SO-35, and features the beautifully finished birch plywood interior panels and cabinetry, a laminated folding table, and bright plaid canvas seats with complementing yellow curtains. Also included, is a child’s hammock and a factory accessory awning that serves as tented attachment for a larger and more versatile camping experience. Furthermore, this vehicle is equipped with the all the optional equipment including a sub-hatch roof perfect for stargazing, safari windows to cool the occupants on hot day, and a luggage rack for all those extra belongings.

Most importantly, the 1962 Westfalia SO-35 Camper offered was restored by marque specialist, Doug Denlinger. Well-noted Microcar and VW collector, Bruce Weiner commissioned this no-expense-spared restoration of this bus to be displayed in his Madison Georgia museum. Given Mr. Weiner’s high standards, the body panels are perfectly straight and the wood cabinetry looks just as it did new. It features a four-speed manual transmission, factory Blaupunkt radio, the mentioned original luggage rack, sub-hatch roof, plaid rear seats, wood cabinetry, factory optional tent, table, and vast storage space, which all present to correct specification and in concours level condition. The Blue White and Turquoise two-tone paint is in nearly flawless and this bus has been minimally used with only 2,534 miles traveled since its extensive restoration.

This example would serve as the perfect Microbus to take on fun camping trips, VW meets or for the most discerning collector to display in their museum or collection.