Corgi presents Vanguards, a series of die-cast 1:43 scale model automobiles spanning half a century of motoring in Britain.
Each model carries a detailed, authentic livery and comes complete with a miniature history of the vehicle and its engine performance The story of the Volkswagen Type 2 starts with Dutch car dealer Ben Pons, the first agent outside Germany to sell VWs who, in 1947, drew a sketch of a forward-control Leifenwagen (light delivery van) that he saw a market for.
Volkswagen's engineers worked on the concept and production commenced in February 1950. A pick-up body was made available in 1952 and by 1954 around eighty examples a day were being produced, partly because the range had grown to include thirty different versions. The Type 2 was gradually refined over an 18-year production life during which over 1.8 million examples were produced. The 1957 Type 2 modelled was imported from a dry climate in the US in 2010 and, because of this, was virtually rust free making it a fantastic prospect for the high-standard UK restoration it received. It was later upgraded by Type 2 Detectives who fitted a rebuilt 1600 Twin Port engine, running on twin Weber carburettors, a dual circuit braking system utilizing front discs, a Gene Berg quick shifter and Fuchs alloy wheels. A bespoke new interior was then built by well-known Kent-based VW Type 2 specialist UK Sports Cars, who sold the vehicle to the current owner. He is a lifelong VW enthusiast who achieved a life’s ambition by buying it and maintains it himself. He uses it regularly for touring and attending model flying events in both the UK and Europe.
