The classic Volkswagen van is a cherished automotive icon.
With its painted V at the front, circular headlights and large VW badge in the middle, VWs demands attention. However, thanks to competing waves of nostalgia, the iconic Transporter T1 also demands a BIG budget. Sadly, VW moved away from its hippie symbolism and updated its van styling. Yet, whilst time has taken away the opportunity to secure one for yourself, a new alternative has reared its head – from Japan of all places.
First introduced at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1960, the Subaru Sambar is unlike anything you've ever seen.
Yes, it might look like any other van – but it presents something utterly unique. When Subaru started making the Kei vehicle class in the 90s, its punters soon figured a lil' something out. By swapping out the front plate, a couple of headlights and the badge – you can convert it from your bog-standard van into a miniature Westfalia bus. Whilst hilarious to see in person, the Subaru Sambar VW conversion works so well because it's also a rear-engine rear-wheel drive. It's also a MUCH cheaper way of owning that iconic VeeDub styling.
The Kei car is currently in its eighth generation and is available as a truck and a van, depending on the buyer's needs.
Compared to prior generations, the engine now sits in the front of the vehicle instead of the rear. The Subaru Sambar VW conversion still comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but on-demand four-wheel-drive is available. Originally produced and manufactured by Subaru until 2012, they ultimately passed off the chassis to Daihatsu and a few other companies. Yet even these companies have seen the appeal and continue producing and manufacturing modern versions of the Subaru Sambar.
Whilst far from quick, this four-wheel drive is just so practical – for the most part.
With a Kei van, there's one place this little critter is not so practical, and that's when you're on a motorway. The speedometer only actually goes up to 140 kilometres an hour. Obviously, this is because they're imported from Japan and were only ever sold for the Japanese domestic market. Even so, a Subaru Sambar VW conversion makes for a great runabout or local delivery vehicle. After all, the main appeal of the Subaru Sambar VW conversions is that they do their best to mimic the key features of the VW model. Sure, the result is less than perfect, but it's instantly recognisable. So, if you want a vehicle guaranteed to attract attention (or hearty laughter), you may as well go to town with this affordable motor.
But, if you ever find yourself hankering for that VW styling, get in touch.
Here at Jackyards, we add a personal touch to VW transporters far and wide. We primarily focus on California SE, Beach, Ocean, Caravelle, T6.1, T6, T5 and T4s classes – but if you have a converted vehicle like the Kei, we’re sure we can make an exception!
“Hi Denise,
Just to say that our seat covers arrived yesterday and we have fitted them today. They match really well with the rest of the interior (and exterior) and of course the quality is excellent. Thank you very much.
Now all we need is the freedom to travel again in our beloved van!”