The 1990 Volkswagen Vanagon Westfalia remains the ultimate symbol of nomadic freedom and clever German engineering. This specific example crossing the block at Glendale 2026 takes that concept much further with modern mechanical upgrades. It solves the traditional power struggle by swapping the original engine for a reliable Japanese boxer unit. Consequently this van is better equipped for long mountain climbs and modern highway speeds than ever before.
Engine Swap Benefits and Mechanical Reliability
Most enthusiasts know that the original waterboxer engines often lacked the torque required for fully loaded camping trips. This 1990 Volkswagen Vanagon Westfalia features a 2.5L Subaru flat four cylinder engine as a primary upgrade. This conversion provides a significant boost in horsepower while maintaining a low center of gravity. It is paired with an automatic transmission for a more relaxed driving experience during cross country tours.
Exterior Upgrades for the Modern Adventurer
The gray exterior is complemented by several functional additions designed for serious off grid exploration and camping. A custom roof rack and ladder provide ample storage for surfboards or extra gear needed for the trail. The pop top features a brand new tent ensuring a weather tight seal for overnight stays in the wilderness. Additionally a road shower system is mounted externally to provide a bit of luxury in remote locations.
Suspension and Braking Performance Kits
To handle the increased power the builders installed a completely new suspension system for better road feel. This 1990 Volkswagen Vanagon Westfalia also benefits from a big brake kit for much shorter stopping distances. New custom wheels and tires were selected to improve both the aesthetic and the overall traction on loose surfaces. These changes make the van feel much more stable when navigating tight turns or windy mountain passes.
Refreshed Gray Interior and Modern Tech
The cabin has been updated with new gray upholstery that maintains a clean and contemporary look throughout. LED interior lights replace the dim factory bulbs to provide better illumination during late night reading sessions. A custom sound system ensures high quality audio for those long hours spent behind the steering wheel. Furthermore a backup camera was integrated to make parking this large vehicle a much simpler task.
Camping Amenities and Functional Layout
Despite the modern tech the iconic Westfalia layout remains the star of the interior living space. The swiveling front seats and folding tables allow the cabin to transform into a dining room in seconds. Storage cabinets are finished in a matching gray to maintain a seamless look with the new seat covers. Every inch of the interior is utilized to maximize the utility of the compact footprint.
Subaru 2.5L Engine and Performance Details
The 2.5L Subaru flat four engine is the heart of this performance oriented 1990 Volkswagen Vanagon Westfalia. It offers roughly double the output of the original factory unit while utilizing modern fuel injection systems. This setup delivers smooth power through the automatic transmission and handles the weight of the camping gear effortlessly. Drivers can expect better fuel efficiency and significantly reduced maintenance compared to the older Volkswagen hardware.
Summary of the Westfalia Auction Offering
This 1990 Volkswagen Vanagon Westfalia represents the perfect marriage of vintage style and modern dependability. The extensive list of upgrades from the engine to the suspension makes it a turn key adventure rig. It will cross the block on Friday March 20th as a highlight of the Glendale event. For those seeking a classic look without the classic mechanical headaches this custom Vanagon is the answer.
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Source: mecum.com
