- The Rocketbox is a custom VW Bus with a 509 cubic-inch V8 making around 560hp.
- Built by Bodo Reichert, the restomod features a luxe cabin and custom design elements.
- This powerful, retro-styled Bus is expected to turn heads at Mecum’s Monterey auction.
Practicality may not be glamorous, but it’s hard to deny how well the classic Volkswagen Bus delivered on it. It could carry a crowd, haul just about anything, and came cheap enough for almost anyone to own. Plus, the engineering was simple enough that maintenance wasn’t a big deal.
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If the original Bus had one major shortcoming, it was the underpowered air-cooled engine tucked in the back. That’s definitely not an issue here, as this one replaced the original engine with 509 cubic inches of raw V8 muscle.
Dubbed the Rocketbox by its creator, this Bus combines classic styling with serious power. That’s a stellar combination since the Type II’s styling is still well-loved today. One of the biggest things Volkswagen did with the new ID. Buzz was to make it powerful enough for modern-day traffic.
The listing says that it makes around 560 horsepower (417 kW), which is about ten times as powerful as the original. That power is sent to the rear wheels only via a three-speed automatic gearbox. The entire drivetrain rests within a custom tubular chassis and atop staggered 17- and 18-inch wheels.
A Decade-Long Labor of Love
And while this looks like a 21-window classic van, it didn’t start out that way. Builder Bodo Reichert built the vehicle over a decade before sadly passing away from cancer. In the process, he made the rear quarter panels half a foot wider to feed the engine with cool, clean air. Then, he routed the exhaust through the walls up to the top of the F-pillar. It’s a stunning look that almost glides under the radar.
Classic Meets Custom Inside and Out
The cabin is just as posh with Porsche 914 seats, a custom wood steering wheel, handcrafted consoles, and aftermarket gauges showing 7,194 miles on the odometer. It’ll no doubt be a highlight when it goes over the auction block at Mecum’s Monterey event next month.
Earlier this year, a dealer was asking just shy of $80,000 for it. That’s about what dealers wanted for the new ID. Buzz. I don’t think many fans would pick the new one over this stunning piece of craftsmanship. What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!
