Sometimes it seems like Volkswagen made more 23-Window and 21-Window buses than they did Kombis and Microbuses
because VW Car Shows seem over-weighted with those "Deluxe" buses. But for many of us, there's nothing like
the understated cool of a Classic Volkswagen Kombi or Microbus with its more frugal use of window openings.
Although outwardly the Kombi and Microbus look similar, there are significant changes that differentiate the
2 models. The Kombi is considered a "commercial" vehicle. Most came with a simple one-color paint
scheme and plain grey hub caps. Kombi interiors were utilitarian by design and consisted of
flat vinyl upholstery and grey painted
"fiber-board" door panels. With the Kombi's seats unbolted, the interior was perfect for carrying boxes and
other cargo. The name "Kombi" is derived from the fact that it was a "combination" vehicle that could carry cargo or passengers with ease. It's interesting to note that virtually all camper conversions
began life as a Panel Van or a Kombi bus. The Microbus is actually just a "fancy" version of the Kombi.
Both models share the same 11-window body, but the Microbus came with chrome hub caps, and usually had
a 2-tone paint scheme and white wall tires. Inside, the Microbus came with upholstered door panels,
upgraded seat upholstery and a full headliner, to transport the driver and his passengers in style.
For a lot of Volkswagen fans and collectors, there's nothing like the clean and simple lines of a vintage
Volkswagen Kombi or Microbus.
