Select a van with the steering wheel on the correct side for you – we have both Left Hand side and Right Hand side driver seating options.
Driving a Classic T2 involves some differences when compared to driving a regular modern car. Before making a booking you should take some time to consider these differences and ensure that expectations are realistic and that anyone driving is capable of safely driving a vintage design without placing stress on themselves or the vehicle. This document will explain that.
When choosing which T2 to hire an important consideration is choosing which side you sit and steer from.
Since around half of our customers are European/US/Canadian (and therefor normally sit on the left side of the vehicle to drive) we have T2s that the driver is positioned on the left hand side. For native right hand drivers (ie UK/Aus/NZ) we have T2s that drive when seated on the right hand side. In our experience it is far better to continue with what you already know and you select a van with the driving position on the side you are currently familiar with. Trust us, this will make your holiday safer and more enjoyable.
To recap. Select a van with the gearshifter where you expect it. This removes the challenge of changing gear with your unfamiliar hand. In our experience you are far less likely to experience problems, be safer and experience a more enjoyable trip if you select a van that drives from the side that you are already familiar with.
You can see van driving position details in the individual van descriptions.
We offer this advice based on having successfully completed over 500 Classic T2 hires. This is offered not as definitive advice but as guidance and much will depend on the individual driver. For example, someone who drives every day, who is routinely driving with a manual transmission and has diverse driving experience (perhaps having already driven vintage or other specialist vehicles) should in theory be able to drive from either side and change gear with either hand. However, where there is any doubt our advice is keep doing what you already know and choose your van with the driving seat side that you are already familiar with.
In general, anybody wishing to hire a VW T2 should be a reasonably confident and experienced driver. You must be a regular driver and confident in your driving. Drivers should understand that the combination of unassisted steering, seating position and gear changes do place extra demands on the driver over and above regular modern cars. If you do not regularly use or have relevant experience of manual transmission vehicles you will almost certainly struggle with a Classic T2.
It should be noted that the Classic VW Type 2 design has reduced driver and safety aids. For example, T2s do not have power steering or anti lock brakes etc.
If you are a regular and competent driver, ideally with current manual gearshift experience then you should have no problem adapting to a classic VW. Before setting off each driver will receive a full briefing and a familiarity drive which covers all the important points and is a great way to start off with confidence.
