For Sale Thread: Airstream Sprinter Westfalia Vans Available to Buy

Camp

Sprinter Westfalia
Beautiful blue Westy!!! I know you said it in the Craigslist ad, but it can't be overstated just how rare the blue vans are. With the tasteful modifications like black wheels and awning, the new owner will truly have a one of one van in America. Did you find/install a new driver's side rear plastic "window" panel? The last picture I saw of that side from minigoogoo's thread looked like it had been removed (post 47/link below).


Copying the other text from the Craigslist ad for the Westy archives:

2005 Sprinter Westfalia by Airstream. 1 of just 250 Sprinter Westfalia vans imported and upfitted by Airstream in 2005. This is an even more rare blue version (only 8 blue ones, the rest were silver) that is in excellent cosmetic and mechanical condition. 2.7 Liter 5 Cylinder Turbo Diesel Engine (22 mpg) with 104,064 miles. Regularly maintained and used for camping and ski trips around the PNW. Would love to keep but looking to size up rig for growing family. At 18’5” long it fits in a regular parking spot (have regularly parallel parked in cities) but with high top is spacious inside with plenty of room to stretch out (7’9” headroom with upper bunk stowed). Typical Westfalia attention to detail perfectly pairs utility with comfort and ensures ample and clever storage space while maintaining an open and inviting living space. Seats 5, sleeps 4 (2 in upper berth, 2 in convertible bench seat). Complete wet bath with shower, toilet and sink. Kitchen includes twin burner propane stove, fridge, sink and plenty of counter space. Push button (electronic ignition) 4-gallon hot water heater. Cold weather ready with diesel furnace that will keep water systems operational down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit. Gelcoat on fiberglass roof is starting to come off (visible in front exterior pictures). $53,750.

2005 Sprinter Airstream Westfalia
VIN: WD5PD644845645640
condition: good
cylinders: 5 cylinders
drive: rwd
fuel: diesel
odometer: 104064
paint color: blue
rv type: class B
size / dimensions: 18' 5" x 6' 3" x 10' 6"
title status: clean
transmission: automatic
 

Camp

Sprinter Westfalia

West Chester, PA

$64,000

31,000 miles

An issue not noted is that there may be a problem with the driver's side acrylic awning window. In the picture of the window it appears to be fogged up. For those new to Westies, this is not normal due to it's double pane construction. If there is an issue with the window, it can be replaced with an OEM Dodge/Mercedes sliding single pane glass window for under $500 in parts.


Details copied from listing:

I am only the second owner, having purchased it in 2008 with around 8,500 miles on it. This low-mileage Westfalia is a James Cook edition in excellent condition, one of only 250 imported into the U.S.! It has never been in an accident. Every system works in the RV, the vehicle has been inspected and is in perfect working order. Both the exterior and interior are in great condition. There are no dents on the bodywork, nor stains or marks in the interior. I have recently completed full maintenance, repair and cleaning of the RV (see below).

I am selling the RV because my children are in college and don’t have time to travel. It is sitting in an indoor storage facility, when it should be enjoyed by others roaming the country! If you want to travel the country in comfort, with an RV that has everything and yet fits in a regular parking spot, this is it. You can easily live and work out of it for weeks!

The Westfalia is powered by the Mercedes Inline 5-cylinder CDI turbo-diesel engine (as well-built and solid as they come) which gets great gas mileage (about 20-22mpg). The engine is mated to a smooth 5-speed automatic transmission which can be shifted manually.

The interior is elegant and efficient, with a European flair. With the top bed folded away the cabin feels incredibly spacious, even for tall folks! It sleeps four people (2 on top bed, 2 in main cabin) and packs all the amenities and appliances!

Amenities
Kitchen
2-burner stove
sink and faucet
refrigerator
microwave
dining table
Bathroom
toilet
sink and faucet
shower
Other
lots of storage
retractable awning
remote controlled skylight
window mosquito netting
outdoor spray hose
Basic essentials
roof mounted A/C unit (very cold)
cabin heater w temp control
generator
26-gal fresh water tank
hot water tank
black & gray water tanks
TV
new Pioneer stereo
Recent Maintenance
new vehicle battery
3 new RV batteries to power internal systems
new Electronic Control System/central display
4 new tires
new brakes and rotors
internal wiring checked and repaired
plumbing system checked and repaired
completely detailed
This low-mileage Airstream Westfalia is in pristine condition and ready to embark on the trip of a lifetime!

(A few cosmetic faults include: few small paint chips on hood, some faded decals, slightly faded paint spot on top left, and slightly cracked black plastic cover on left side.)

Condition: Used
Year: 2005
Make: Airstream
Model: WESTFALIA
Class: Class B
Location: West Chester, PA
Mileage: 31,000
Fuel Type: DIESEL
Gross Vehicle Weight: 8,550
Engine Type: Inline 5
Sleeping Capacity: 4
Bunkhouse Floorplan: Yes
Sleep Options: double bed on top, pull-out bed in main cabin
Air Conditioners: 2
Awnings: yes
Length: 18
Engine Manufacture: Mercedes
Water Capacity: 36
Exterior Color: silver
Interior Color: gold and gray
Price: $64,000
 

Camp

Sprinter Westfalia
Cja360, disregard the question about the plastic panel. I see later in the thread in an answering someone's question that minigoogoo installed a new panel. For the new owner, having a panel installed circa-2011 is a great benefit as they crack over time (see the 31k mile Westy above). They are no longer available to buy, so the one minigoogoo installed is probably one of the newest on any Westy.
 

Kiltym

Active member

West Chester, PA

$64,000

31,000 miles

An issue not noted is that there may be a problem with the driver's side acrylic awning window. In the picture of the window it appears to be fogged up. For those new to Westies, this is not normal due to it's double pane construction. If there is an issue with the window, it can be replaced with an OEM Dodge/Mercedes sliding single pane glass window for under $500 in parts.


Some other things that I would ask about:

3 coach batteries? Where did you fit them?
New brakes at 31k, what happened?
New central computer, just FYI as the backlight may not be the original green as the new ones referenced on this forum are amber.
And I would make sure to test both Espar heaters as they don't really like to go unused for years at a time, which this van has likely done.

The low miles are pretty rare like this. Could be a real unicorn if things are represented accurately.
 

Camp

Sprinter Westfalia
I got a question from someone about the low mileage PA Westy... Just to be clear, I'm not affiliated with any of the vans on this thread. I just enjoy looking at other Westies and sharing the links. A few posted here have been vans for sale from owners who are forum members, but most are just vans found online and shared by others. It was late, and I'm sorry I didn't make it clearer that I have no affiliation with the PA listing.
 

Camp

Sprinter Westfalia
Some other things that I would ask about:

3 coach batteries? Where did you fit them?
New brakes at 31k, what happened?
New central computer, just FYI as the backlight may not be the original green as the new ones referenced on this forum are amber.
And I would make sure to test both Espar heaters as they don't really like to go unused for years at a time, which this van has likely done.

The low miles are pretty rare like this. Could be a real unicorn if things are represented accurately.
Good catches! Definitely worth investigating for anyone interested in purchasing.

The condition and lack of more than one exterior picture also got my attention today. The owner indicates the Westy is stored indoors (and got the pic in some facility), but this van has a lot of sun damage on the only side shown. Though this is a PA van owned by the same owner since 2008, the graphics and paint peel look more like what you would find on a CA/AZ/FL/etc van. It also looks like there is something like 303 or Armor All on the front bumper to make it look shiny and gray.

The mileage on most the Westies in the months this thread has been in existence seems to be lower than what I recall the average being in years past. However, this is still the second lowest mileage since I've been posting Westies here (in separate threads). The one below had 12,800 miles and was offered for $65k in 2018 (though this van was in fairly rough shape for the mileage). Before posting listings, I recall a few sub 30k miles in years past, and at least two in the teens.

 

Camp

Sprinter Westfalia
Seems to be sold? EBay listing was ended....
Looks like since it was removed before the auction ended the bid history is gone. The last time I saw the listing active, bidding was at $29,100 with two bidders and reserve not met.
 

Camp

Sprinter Westfalia
Pnwsquid found the Westy that Sprinter Source member tneuer had converted into a 4x4 by Whitefeather...



Rancho Santa Fe, CA

$100,000

Mileage Not Disclosed

A few things to note. The seller states that the Westy has had it's engine replaced. A tent trailer is stated as being included with the sale, but only for the "right buyer", or the seller states they "reserve the right to donate it to charity prior to sale". For a potential buyer, there are many old posts/threads from tneuer that shed some light on the 4x4 conversion. As Pnwsquid states, tneuer did have some issues with the van.


Just copying the RVTrader ad here for the records before it's deleted (though not sure there's any other 4x4s in USA that will be compared against this)...

IF THIS AD IS UP - IT IS FOR SALE PLEASE DO NOT ASK IF IT IS FOR SALE. $100,000
2005 Mercedes Sprinter Westfalia by Airstream Asking $100,000We have finally outgrown our beloved Sprinter 4x4. 2 adults plus a growing 14-year-old and 9-year-old. Up for sale is our 2005 Mercedes Westfalia by Airstream or Sprinter for short. Recent (October) complete go through by RV Specialists in San Diego, CA – serviced the water heater, new engine hoses, checked water systems, suspension and anything mechanical needed for year of travel were done. Further service check to replace brakes and differential fluid at Sprinter Service of Vista, CA.6 months ago engine was replaced with a refurbished Mercedes engine by Linden Engineering of Golden, Colorado. Still under warranty. The previous engine had been self-repaired by previous owner which left some engine first aid for me to deal with. More room and capability than any new $165,000 Sprinter.

Features:4WD-W/front locking hubsTires-New 1500 miles ago Good Year DuratracSleeps 4-2 up and 2 down. The upstairs pulls out and turns into a very comfortable bed for two-when retracted it offers over 6 feet of head room.Marine Fridge for extra food-much bigger than a traditional sprinter fridge200 watts of solar-Can stay off grid and run everything for 5 days.Microwave3 burner stoveInverterDash only AC-But does fine for us-previous owner removed AC when he raised it and replaced with solar.Pioneer Bluetooth stereoCustom carpet flooring (see pics)Upstairs fan adjusts into multiple directionsDiesel heater-we were fine in -7 degrees in Utah and were very warmSofa converts into a bedStorage underneath the sofaHanging closet-Multiple storage compartments throughoutTwo detachable tables-small and large for dining or casual snackFull size spare Remote roof skylight window w/rain sensorWet bath with shower and ceiling window w/screenRetractable stepAmazing visibilityWet bathSkylight with three open settings, bug net and night shade same in bathroomMultiple USB plugs-two 110 plugsNo Generator-No Need but large RV Propane tankNotes: Mechanically I would not hesitate to go around the world in the truck. Everything works and is ready to go. Comes with complete manuals-receipts including 4WD conversion. Title in hand. Thanks for looking. Serious buyers only please. Will include the Living Lite fold up tent camper which tows perfectly behind Sprinter for right buyer if they want it. I reserve the right to donate it to charity prior to sale.

Condition: Used
Year: 2005
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: SPRINTER 2500 4X4
Class: Class B
Location: Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Fuel Type: DIESEL
Sleep Options: 2 sleep upstairs-2 down stairs
Price: $100,000
 

Camp

Sprinter Westfalia
They'd have to pay ME to take that Whitefeather garbage conversion. Overpriced by easily 30K.
It's hard to determine the value of this van without the miles, but at $40-60k for a 2wd, it looks like they are valuing the Whitefeather conversion at $40-60k. A Westy and a dirtbike or old Jeep would probably take you as many (or more) places for far less. Granted it's not an all in one package, but tens of thousands extra in your pocket could make you forget that!
 

Camp

Sprinter Westfalia
Before the listing disappears, anyone interested in Westy modifications should check out the 4x4 van's fridge. I don't recall reading that tneuer modified it, but it appears to have been customized to be larger. Just noticed it doesn't have the small corner that is higher up, as it's all the same height as the lowest part.
 

Riptide

Active member
I'd like to know more about the upper berth windows; those look pretty good from the outside.
 

Camp

Sprinter Westfalia
I'd like to know more about the upper berth windows; those look pretty good from the outside.
If I recall correctly, tneuer's Westy had an acrylic window on the driver's side, and the glass one on the passenger side. I believe I saw a few pictures where they were most likely taken at the same time/place, so it was just the sides that were different and not before/after pics. No driver's side pic on this listing, and the interior blinds are closed. There was a Westy for sale in Spokane, WA many years ago (before I signed up here) that had that same window configuration. I've always wondered if that's the van that went on to Colorado to be converted by tneuer. I'm also curious as to which glass shop did the work... anyone in Spokane know of a local place that is good at custom work that may be the source?

By the way, the owner uploaded some new pictures to the RVTrader ad. Does anyone have any idea what the tank that is mounted to the bathroom wall in the rear storage area is for?
 

westyventures

In the Oregon Outback
Someone 'replaced' the original upper windows with glass or whatever, probably unaware that almost anything can be custom molded these days.
The 'tank'...yet another negative for this van: that's one of the latest Chinese Espar copy's garbage fuel tank, probably running kerosene because they have no clue how to maintain a heater otherwise.
 

orafin

Member
Makes one wonder why they didn't plumb the heaters fuel supply line into the main diesel tank instead of having a plastic secondary tank .... maybe running JP8 for extreme winter cold climate?
 

minigoogoo

Member
Cja360, disregard the question about the plastic panel. I see later in the thread in an answering someone's question that minigoogoo installed a new panel. For the new owner, having a panel installed circa-2011 is a great benefit as they crack over time (see the 31k mile Westy above). They are no longer available to buy, so the one minigoogoo installed is probably one of the newest on any Westy.
Regarding the side panel on our former van 'Big Blue': the panel itself was one that I had from my first Westy, provided by Airstream as a warranty item (and they let me have it as a loose part, uninstalled). I had submitted a warranty claim for hairline cracks on the side panel shortly after purchasing our first (silver) Westy in 2007. The crack wasn't so bad to pull the panel and replace the panel immediately but I expected it to travel and wanted to get a new panel in my hands before the warranty expired. That first van was sold after a couple years and miraculously the cracks had never gotten any worse. At the time of sale, the panel and the van were living apart (honestly I had forgotten that I had the side panel stored away). When I bought the blue one in 2010, it needed a panel and I remembered that I had that spare one stashed away. The rest is Westy history. Anyway, Chris was a great buyer in 2013 and I'm happy that he enjoyed the van for 7 years. The new owner has reached out and we've been chatting about the van some more... I just love (and completely understand) the enthusiasm for these Westys. We still have our third one here at the house that we're planning to sell in the Spring. We've now fully committed to Airstream TT's including the big diesel truck to pull it. As versatile as the Westys are... and I wouldn't have wanted any other getaway vehicle when the kids were younger... now that we've had a taste of the bigger Airstreams I'm afraid there's no going back for us!
 

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