Reluctant sale of my professionally built VW T5 Transporter Long Wheel Base day van. This is not a standard T5 or a budget conversion — it’s an enthusiast‑owned Transporter with all the costly mechanical, suspension and cosmetic work already done. Previously featured in a magazine and maintained regardless of cost, it’s equally suited to show use, daily driving, or as a high‑quality base for a full camper conversion.
The van benefits…
Reluctant sale of my professionally built VW T5 Transporter Long Wheel Base day van. This is not a standard T5 or a budget conversion — it’s an enthusiast‑owned Transporter with all the costly mechanical, suspension and cosmetic work already done. Previously featured in a magazine and maintained regardless of cost, it’s equally suited to show use, daily driving, or as a high‑quality base for a full camper conversion.
The van benefits from a professionally carried‑out engine conversion, addressing one of the biggest concerns with older T5s. It runs a VRS‑built PD130 ASZ engine producing approximately 200bhp, with the conversion completed by AR Tuning in Lancaster. Proof and receipts are included, with around 110k miles on the engine. The setup uses Darkside Developments components and is paired with a T6 6‑speed manual gearbox. It pulls strongly through all gears, cruises comfortably on the motorway, and returns 40–45 MPG on a run. Compared to a standard T5, it drives on a completely different level.
Suspension and chassis setup has been done properly, not just for looks. It’s fitted with AirLift air suspension with dual compressors, allowing adjustable ride height — drive it comfortably or drop it when parked. The van has had an engine and subframe raise, Darkside intercooler and hard‑pipe kit, a full stainless exhaust, fully polybushed components and a powder‑coated subframe. The result is a van that feels tight, planted and confidence‑inspiring, without being crashy or uncomfortable.
Inside, the van is warm, comfortable and genuinely usable all year round. It features a Rusty Lee rock‑and‑roll bed trimmed in blue tartan, with six seats in total and matching front seats. The interior has an oak halo roof with spotlights and ambient lighting, is fully carpeted and sound‑deadened, and includes an Autotherm night heater and leisure battery setup. Entertainment and driving comfort are handled by an Alpine Halo head unit with Apple CarPlay, a T5.1 dashboard upgrade, digital display, cruise control, air conditioning and electric windows. Ideal for weekends away, road trips or daily use.
Externally, the van looks sharp and well finished without being over the top. It has a full T5 body conversion including a bad boy bonnet and smoothed front bumper, along with a full respray carried out by Paintworx in Loughborough. Additional touches include THQ LED headlights, power‑folding mirrors and a Bentley fuel cap delete. It turns heads while still looking purposeful and clean.
Maintenance has been carried out regardless of cost, with oil changes every 5,000 miles since the engine swap. Receipts are present for all major work, including the engine and gearbox conversion, and the build is clearly documented. The van has been enthusiast‑owned and not abused. There is a small scuff on the rear bumper, shown clearly in the photos and reflected honestly in the price.
This is a rare opportunity to buy a Transporter that already has the right engine, the right gearbox, the right suspension and the right look. Replicating this build today would cost well in excess of the asking price, before even purchasing the base van. This is not a cheap T5 and not a half‑finished project — it’s a genuinely sorted, high‑spec Transporter.
UK based. Viewing is strongly recommended. Private sale.