You might’ve heard—the Volkswagen Bus is coming back in 2022. It’ll be a little different this time around, given it’s the 21st Century, and we now have fancy tech like electric powertrains. Still, we’re stoked to see such an iconic car make a comeback—we’ll even welcome the modern gadgets.
We’re yet to see the real production version, though Volkswagen’s ID. Buzz Concept has given us a good idea of how it’ll look. Unlike the air-cooled original, the all-new model will be completely battery-powered. It’s expected to pack available dual electric motors, providing all-wheel-drive and a decent amount of range. For reference, Volkswagen claimed the ID. Buzz Concept to make 369 horsepower in top-spec with the ability to travel 270 miles between charges. Who knows how much it’ll cost, but presumably, it’ll start around the $40,000 range.
Not bad considering the price point of other EVs.
Photo Credit: Volkswagen
In all, the Bus is one of the car world’s most beloved sons, and there have been more than a handful of stellar restorations. We’ve accumulated a quick rundown of our favorites, some of which were completed as backyard projects while the others are Concours-grade, nut-and-bolt renovations.
1956 Volkswagen Deluxe “23-Window” Microbus
We might as well start with the granddaddy of them all. This completely restored Bus from 1956 sold for a staggering $112,000 at RM Sotheby’s Monterey auction last year, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s finished in a desirable Chestnut Brown over Sealing Wax Red with all the proper interior bits, including a mohair headliner.
Sure, the Bluetooth stereo might not have been a factory option, but it’s so well-hidden in this case that we don’t mind.
1963 Volkswagen Panel Bus By HDQTRS NYC
Photo Credit: Antonio Alvendia/FCP Euro
Taking a different direction from the norm is HDQTRS NYC’s ‘63 that we covered in-depth this January. Of course, this one is far from factory stock as it sports air suspension, wood interior flooring, and a “Grigio Medio” paint color originally developed for Ferrari, among other features.
It’s a more modern take than traditional restorations, but who can complain about a 60 percent horsepower increase over stock?
Electric 1972 Volkswagen Bus By EV West and VW
Photo Credit: Volkswagen
Volkswagen itself pitched into the restoration of this Type 2 with Californian conversion company EV West. The “e-Bus,” as it’s been called, ditched its old 2.0-liter air-cooled engine for an electrified powertrain from a 2017 VW e-Golf. It produces 134 horsepower and provides approximately 125 miles of range—not too shabby, all things considered.
It even features a regenerative braking mode to harvest energy, keeping the battery fuller for longer periods of time. Expect to see this type of tech and more on the 2022 version.
Project High Top Volkswagen Bus Bay Window By Auto Finesse
Photo Credit: Auto Finesse via YouTube
Photo Credit: Auto Finesse via YouTube
The U.K.’s Auto Finesse crew is known for building high-class VWs of all kinds. Some of its greatest creations of all have been air-cooled, like this Bay Window “High Top” that’s slammed to the ground. Don’t think that alone makes it nice—it’s tastefully done in white with hand-painted black lettering promoting the detailing company. As a package, it delivers a stellar aesthetic that’s complemented by the roomy interior.
This particular Bus is a nod to arguably the coolest era of car customization ever. It just so happens to also be a mobile store.
Gabriel Iglesias’ $3-Million Collection of Old-School VW Busses and Beetles
For those who grew up in Southern California, nothing conjures as much nostalgia as an old-school VW. Luckily, professional funny man Gabriel Iglesias was able to turn his dream garage into a real, drivable reality with tons of original Busses and Beetles. His Instagram is chock full of classic Sambas, but it’s hard to pick a favorite. They’re all just about perfect.
Peep the beautiful blue puppy hauler.
If you know of any cool VW Bus restorations, point them out in the comments below. And if you're looking for more Volkswagen articles, DIYs, and videos, visit our Volkswagen hub at vw.fcpeuro.com.
