I preferred the looks of that second generation van (Vanagon that followed was pure ugly). But even the most powerful versions of the Vanagon were not really up to our driving conditions, anything accelerating that slow today gets an automatic Unacceptable from CR on safety.
These were really popular in their time. When I was in the Air Force late 60's and early 70's we had five second-generation Type 2 vans in our 12-man office, did not have more than one of any other type of car. Three of the five were Westfalia campers. What kept me from having one was that my wife needed to drive, refused to drive manual transmission, and I could afford only one car.
Friends continued to tempt me with their VW vans and campers the next six years through grad school. One friend owned one van and two engine. He would rebuild one engine (in an outdoor parking space) while wearing out the other. Most everybody else went to a shop to swap for a rebuilt when the engine started to sag at 30K to 50K miles.
For me, the best thing about it is how cool it looks. But today, I would rather build my camper inside an American van. Most recent 3/4 ton and 1 ton vans can carry at least 3000 pounds of furnishing and goods, and tow 4000 to 6000 pounds of trailer. Or tow a couple of VW Type 2 vans.
Might joke about "If I had his money" but a restored Westfalia of that age might cost you more than a new diesel pusher, and if you want a first generation Type 2 you'll be bidding at auction and maybe getting to ex-race Ferrari prices.
