Volkswagen Type 147
The quirky, sliding-door postal van that became a cult air-cooled icon.
- Power
- 34 bhp
- Top speed
- 62 mph
- Est. value
- $30k–$95k
About the Volkswagen Type 147
Commissioned by the German Federal Post Office (Deutsche Bundespost), the Type 147 was a purpose-built urban delivery vehicle designed to bridge the gap between the Beetle and the larger Transporter. Built by Westfalia, it is a fascinating 'parts bin' creation, utilizing a Karmann Ghia chassis, Beetle engine and transmission, Type 3 headlights, and modified Type 2 rear panels. Its distinctive boxy shape and sliding doors made it ideal for narrow city streets, though a lack of rust protection meant few survived their hard-working lives. Today, it is a highly sought-after rarity among Volkswagen collectors, prized for its unique utility and charming, awkward proportions.
Volkswagen Type 147 specs
The Volkswagen Type 147 produces 34 bhp (25 kW) and 82 Nm (60 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 62 mph (100 km/h).
| Make | Volkswagen |
|---|---|
| Model | Type 147 |
| Trim | 1.2 |
| Years | 1964–1974 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Van |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 7,340 built |
| Engine | 1.2-litre air-cooled flat-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,192 cc (1.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 34 bhp (25 kW) at 3,600 rpm |
| Torque | 82 Nm (60 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 62 mph (100 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 935 kg (2,061 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 36 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Volkswagen Type 147 worth?
A typical Volkswagen Type 147 is estimated to be worth $30,000 – $95,000 (about £22,000 – £71,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Volkswagen Type 147 rarity in CarSpot
The Volkswagen Type 147 is an Epic card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 58 out of 100. Supercars and serious performance cars, typically worth around £100,000 to £250,000. An Epic card is worth 80 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Volkswagen Type 147 fun facts
- The nickname 'Fridolin' is said to have originated from Westfalia workers who thought the van resembled a colleague or a small railway maintenance vehicle of the same name.
- While most were used by the German Post, a special Swiss version was produced with a larger 1.3-litre engine, disc brakes, and additional rear windows.
- Despite over 7,000 being built, it is estimated that only around 200 examples of the Fridolin survive worldwide today due to severe corrosion issues.