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1979 T2 Single Cab (Type 2)
Single Cab Pickup

1979 T2 Single Cab (Type 2)

Photo: Riley from Christchurch, New Zealand · Wikimedia Commons · CC-BY
2000cc
Displacement
70HP
Power
N/A
Top Speed
1979 T2 Single Cab (Type 2) profile

Real Stories

Shaped by Hope: The Story of 'Azul'
The Story of Georgie the VW Bus
1979 T2 Single Cab (Type 2) exterior view

Factory exterior

1 / 1

Engineering.

The air-cooled flat-four that powered the 1979 T2 Single Cab (Type 2). Simple, reliable, and endlessly modifiable.

2000cc

Air-cooled Type 4 flat-4

The air-cooled flat-four engine that powered a generation. Code GD / GE.

Power
70 HP
Fuel
Carburetor

Highlights.

Feature

Cultural context

counterculture, icon

Feature

Feature 2

The Type 2's boxy, forward-control layout was radical for its time.

Engine

Engine Size

1600cc (1.6L) Air-cooled flat-4 / Type 4

Engine

Horsepower

50 HP

Quick Facts — 1979 Bus

  • Engine SizeNeeds Review

    1600cc (1.6L) Air-cooled flat-4 / Type 4

  • HorsepowerNeeds Review

    50 HP

  • Engine CodeNeeds Review

    AS, GD, GE

  • Body StyleNeeds Review

    Pickup

  • TransmissionNeeds Review

    4-speed manual / 3-speed automatic

  • Cultural SignificanceNeeds Review

    The 1979 Bus was approaching production end (would cease in early 1980s depending on variant).

All specifications should be verified before publication.

Top Questions — 1979 Bus

Refer to the specifications section above for the engine code used in the 1979 Bus. The engine code is typically stamped on the engine case above the generator. For verification assistance, use our M-Code decoder tool.

Confidence: medium — This information should be verified with additional sources.

The value of a 1979 Bus varies significantly based on condition, originality, and documentation. Driver-quality examples typically range from lower values, while excellent restored or numbers-matching examples command premiums. Condition, originality, and documentation are the primary value drivers. Always get a professional appraisal for insurance or sale purposes.

Confidence: low — This information requires verification before use.

1979 Bus models were produced at various Volkswagen factories worldwide. Check the production details above for specific factory information. The factory code can often be identified through chassis number analysis.

Confidence: medium — This information should be verified with additional sources.

The 1979 Bus received several updates from the 1978 model. Refer to the specifications and editorial sections above for detailed information about year-to-year changes. Changes may include mechanical updates, safety features, or cosmetic refinements.

Confidence: medium — This information should be verified with additional sources.

Common rust areas on air-cooled Volkswagens include heater channels (under running boards), floor pans (especially front and battery tray area), front beam (suspension mounting point), rear chassis/apron (where bumper mounts), and door bottoms. The heater channels are structural and expensive to repair. Always inspect these areas carefully before purchase.

A full rotisserie restoration typically costs $25,000-$50,000+ depending on condition and level of finish. Mechanical refresh (engine, brakes, suspension) runs $5,000-$12,000. Bodywork and paint alone can be $8,000-$15,000 for quality work. DIY restorations save labor but require significant time investment (500-1,000 hours). Parts availability is generally good for classic VWs, which helps control costs.

Confidence: low — This information requires verification before use.

Numbers matching (original engine, transmission, and chassis) typically increases value by 20-40% over non-matching examples. However, the premium varies based on overall condition, documentation, and market demand. Use our numbers matching verification tool to check your vehicle.

Confidence: medium — This information should be verified with additional sources.

A well-maintained 1979 Bus can serve as a daily driver, but consider the age of the vehicle. Modern traffic, safety features, and reliability expectations differ from the era. Regular maintenance, mechanical knowledge, and realistic expectations are essential. Many owners use classic VWs as weekend drivers or hobby vehicles rather than primary transportation.

Confidence: medium — This information should be verified with additional sources.

Yes, parts availability for classic air-cooled Volkswagens is generally excellent. The large enthusiast community and aftermarket support mean most mechanical and body parts are readily available. Some year-specific trim pieces or rare options may be harder to find, but the core mechanical components are well-supported.

Why This Year Matters

Needs Review
  • Cultural context: counterculture, icon
  • The Type 2's boxy, forward-control layout was radical for its time.
Collector AppealMedium
Restoration ComplexityMedium
Daily Driver SuitabilityMedium

Valuation Resources

Research current market values for the 1979 T2 Single Cab (Type 2)

Buying tip: Condition is everything. A rusty "project" can cost more to restore than buying a finished car. Check heater channels, floor pans, and battery tray first.

Pale Yellow

L12Asolidlimited

Factory Colors

Original paint options available for the 1979 T2 Single Cab (Type 2).

solid Colors

Looking for a 1979 T2 Single Cab (Type 2) in Pale Yellow?

Find for Sale

Which 1979 Bus fits your style?

Explore the variants available for this model year and find your perfect match.

Want to see a detailed comparison of multiple vehicles?

Compare all variants

Verify Authenticity

Numbers matching verification increases value by 20-40%. Use our tools to verify engine codes, chassis numbers, and M-codes for your 1979 T2 Single Cab (Type 2).

Correct Engine CodeGD / GE