On this day in 1979.... The VW T3 started Production in Hannover
On this day: The start of production of the new third generation of the Volkswagen Transporter – the T3 – began with the panel van version on 2 April 1979. Four weeks later, the Kombi and Bus versions began production on 2 May 1979.
The side windows were extensively glazed and, in conjunction with the enlarged front and rear windows, visibility was greatly improved.
· Panoramic windscreen + 21%
· Front door glazing +24%
· Side windows +10%
· Rear window for Buses and Kombi +92%
The view upwards to traffic lights and traffic signs was also been improved by raising the window frames in the doors and the front of the vehicle. Manouvering and parking were also better with large exterior mirrors on both sides.
The T3 featured a new ventilation system with air nozzles in the roof lining that could be individually controlled by the passengers. This enabled continuous, draught-free air renewal throughout the vehicle, increasing driving comfort.
The seats in the second row were attached to stable guide rails with quick locks and could be loosened and removed in just a few simple steps – even by one person. This increased the utility value of the van for transporting people and goods. The 8-seater Kombi could be turned into a delivery van or passenger car in a couple of minutes. The bench seat in the third row had a fold-down backrest feature. After commercial used on weekdays, the Transporter could be transformed into a comfortable minibus for family and leisure activities on weekends in just a few minutes.
For the Bus L versions there were seven two-tone paint finishes to choose from ex works:
· Ivory/Bamboo yellow
· Ivory/Luminous orange
· Ivory/Oriental red
· Guinea blue/Cornate blue
· Saima green/Liana green
· Ivory/Agate brown
· Samos beige/Aswan brown
· Also, plain ivory or Pastel White.
Prices for the seven-seater (2-2-3 seat configuration) began at 17,075 DM. For the seven-seater L - 18,495 DM.
Many thanks to Peter Frost - Volkswagen Factory Pictures on FaceBook