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I am interested in purchasing a 4wd, preferably turbo diesel, lhd VW camper, a la VW California. I would not say money isn't an issue, but for the right vehicle I would be prepared to pay a decent price !

As I approach my retirement my intention is to explore Europe literally at some length, so the vehicle has to have low(ish) mileage and a good spec. !

Any recommendations, or ideas, on UK dealers from members would be much appreciated ,or indeed likewise anyone who has any knowledge of buying from a Continental dealer, ie. advantages, disadvantages, potential pitfalls etc. would be extremely useful information to be armed with.

Cheers

Blair

Thank you for that information Kabbes !

But I was thinking more in line of the current T5 with the 175 bhp 2.5 turbo diesel in 4-motion spec ! I think on the continent the van is also (or maybe was also) available with a 3 litre V6 petrol engine.

But as I said I would obviously prefer the diesel option for tractability and much better fuel consumption.

Cheers

Blair

You are a font of great knowledge ! And thanks very much for that update Kabbes !!

I hear what you say about the insurance aspect and that is very important of course. My sister has just paid c. £30k for a used UK spec. California but I don't want to pay that much ! Living north of the border her main pastime is touring the Highlands so thats fine, but most of my mileage will be done on the Continent so l.h.d. works for me as does the "wrong" side door ! And of course 4 wd (4-Motion) for the Alps and Norway etc I consider a good idea.

Knowing how into their motors the Germans usually are and how they like to spec. them up I am hoping for something a little bit different and a bit special.

So I will check out those links and see whow I get on, my French is decent enough to get by but my German is non existent !

Cheers

Blair

Quote: Originally posted by Blair49 on 15/6/2009

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 And of course 4 wd (4-Motion) for the Alps and Norway etc I consider a good idea.

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I would defintely have a word with VWCampersales, we bought our T4 California from them and they do seem to be one of the experts in the UK. 

I don't know if there's a 4WD version of it but the Mercedes-based campers are still made by Wesfalia and look great, but similar price to the new Californias I'm afraid.