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Which camper is for me? Newbie requesting help :) Thanks!
Hi Everyone!
I was wondering if I could ask the experts for some help.
I have always driven VW's, and have always wanted a bus. After 2 hours of trying to figure out what model to target, I realize "bus" isn't probably even the right term.
This is quite a science knowing what year, what model, etc. will fit what I need, or if it even exists.
I have experienced several car accidents and never quite recovered, so since I'll be using this as my only source of transportation, I actually have safety as my first priority.
Which actually helps narrow it down to probably a Eurovan, but I don't find them as appealing as the Westfalia, or of course the earlier busses. But maybe there's something I don't know about!
This is what I'd like to find all in one:
- Dual airbags
- Front engine (safer on ice/collisions)
- Front wheel drive for ice and snow
- Sink
- Stove
- Refrigerator
- Built in cupboards
- Table
- Back seats that create a bed
- AC/Heat
- Electrical outlets
- Water storage/pump
- Camper top optional
- Question: Does any model have enough power to haul a trailer like for a cross-country move?
So... is this all even possible?
I really appreciate your help. I'm thinking of moving and it would make it much easier on my pets to have the space, as well as I have always wanted one! I think it's smart. I have lived through natural disasters and it's good to have somewhere to live, plus it would be lovely to camp!!!
I don't really want anything else but I'm sad to think safety will be my barrier.
Thank you so much! Kristi
Budget is a good question. Broadly speaking if you research the web you will find your answers, this takes hours and hours but will really fill you up with info. I bought my 1st in june, a 1993 T4 "California". Get a diesel with turbo as the injection alone is too weak, though it does the job if you drive thoughtfully. Don't even think about petrol! Bit under-braking on mountains but again, drive with the gearbox and all is ok. Normal hills etc.: no problem.
As you can hear, we drove a lot in europe this summer. 7000km in 5 weeks.
Don't even think about T2 or T3 as these are death traps from any angle in collision, though T3 is better than T2. T4 is good, with 2 airbags and a strong shape, not a Saab 9-3 though. See Crash-Test url.
Look at rust places carefully. Lot of false rooms, but it's a model fault. It's fine.
Good luck!
Richard
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Hi Kristi
What is your budget?
What size of vehicle are you after? A small van?