Model Buying Guides
In-depth Irish guides for every classic campervan generation — current values, common problems, parts availability, import costs, insurance questions and what to look for when buying in Ireland.
VW T2 Bay Window
The most iconic campervan ever built. Air-cooled, characterful, and increasingly expensive. This guide covers what to pay, what to avoid, and where to find them in Ireland.
VW T3 Wedge (Vanagon)
The underrated gem. The T3 is the best-value classic camper available right now — still affordable, rapidly appreciating, with a passionate restoration community.
VW T4
The sensible choice for first-time classic-camper buyers. Modern enough to be reliable, old enough to have character. Parts are plentiful and cheap.
VW T5
Modern, practical, and popular with the van-life crowd. The T5 has the biggest aftermarket conversion community and the most conversion options of any van.
Bedford CF
The British alternative that sold alongside the VW in Irish showrooms. Rare now, with a small and knowledgeable community. A conversation-starter on the road.
Self-Build Conversions
Sprinter, Ducato, Transit — converted to campervans by Irish specialists or determined self-builders. The most cost-effective route to a custom campervan.
Every guide on this site covers the specifics of buying, registering, insuring, and restoring a classic campervan in Ireland — not just the generic UK advice that's easy to find elsewhere. VRT, customs duty, Irish insurance quirks, Irish-specific restoration shops. That's the gap we fill.
| Best fit | Models to compare first | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|
| Iconic show-weekend classic | VW T2 Bay Window | Rust, restoration quality, high valuation and specialist labour. |
| Lower-cost air of nostalgia | VW T3 Wedge or Bedford CF | Parts availability, drivetrain condition and evidence of prior repairs. |
| Usable first camper | VW T4 or VW T5 | Conversion quality, mileage, service history and insurance classification. |
| Custom layout | Modern self-build | Weight, electrics, gas, ventilation, documentation and resale evidence. |
Pair the model guide with the VRT import guide, insurance guide and specialists directory. The right model is the one you can register, insure, maintain and sell with evidence, not just the one that looks best in photos.