The Volkswagen Kombi has been rolling off production lines in Brazil since September 1957. That’s 56 years. That stat makes the Kombi is the most everlasting production model the world has known. And now, due to safety regulations, it’s all about to come to an end.
In honour of the Kombi, or T2 as it is known in various markets, Volkswagen Brazil has created the Kombi Last Edition. Only 600 will be made. All will come with a certificate of authenticity and all will be finished in the two-tone paint scheme you see here.
The Kombi LE is powered by a stonking EA111 1.4-litre engine, which delivers 78PS. That can be boosted to a staggering 80PS if petrol is replaced by ethanol. Power is sent to the driven wheels through a four-speed manual. Remember them!
Like the Beetle, many of us will have a Kombi memory of some sort. Personally, I’m lucky to be here after mum’s Kombi Campervan went up in flames thanks to a faulty gas bottle. We were holidaying and parked in a friends backyard. I was asleep in the Kombi and just five years of age. Apparently they got quite a shock while doing the dishes that night and saw our van on fire!
Riding in the Kombi is one of my earliest automotive memories, along with mum’s Alfa Romeo Spider, and whenever I see a VW bus I can’t help but smile.