What Makes the Rocketbox VW Bus So Different from the Original?
If you’ve ever admired the classic Volkswagen Bus for its charm and practicality, you’re not alone. The original VW Type II was a workhorse—simple, affordable, and endlessly versatile. But let’s be honest: its air-cooled engine was never going to set any speed records. Enter the Rocketbox, a custom-built VW Bus that throws subtlety out the window and replaces it with pure, unapologetic muscle.
Instead of the modest engine that powered the original, the Rocketbox packs a 509 cubic-inch V8 under its widened rear panels. That’s roughly 560 horsepower—about ten times the output of the stock bus. The result? Pure magic. This isn’t just a showpiece; it’s a restomod that can genuinely move, thanks to a three-speed automatic gearbox and a custom tubular chassis. The Rocketbox sits on staggered 17- and 18-inch wheels, giving it a stance that’s as aggressive as its performance.
How Did the Rocketbox Come to Life?
The Rocketbox isn’t just another flashy custom build—it’s a labor of love with a story behind every detail. Bodo Reichert, the man responsible for this transformation, spent over a decade crafting the vehicle before his passing. He didn’t just swap engines and call it a day. Reichert widened the rear quarter panels by half a foot, ensuring the big V8 could breathe easy. He even routed the exhaust through the van’s walls and up to the top of the F-pillar, a touch that’s both functional and visually striking.
This kind of dedication isn’t common. Most restomods cut corners somewhere, but the Rocketbox is a testament to what happens when someone pours their heart—and years of their life—into a project. It’s a rolling tribute to Reichert’s vision and skill.
What’s the Interior Like? Is It All Show and No Comfort?
Step inside, and you’ll find that the Rocketbox is just as impressive on the inside as it is on the outside. Forget the spartan interiors of vintage vans. This cabin is decked out with Porsche 914 seats, a custom wood steering wheel, and handcrafted consoles. Aftermarket gauges keep tabs on the V8’s vital signs, and the odometer reads just over 7,000 miles—a sign that this Bus has been enjoyed, but not abused.
It’s not just about luxury, either. The interior design blends classic cues with modern touches, creating a space that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It’s the kind of place you’d want to spend hours in, whether you’re cruising down the coast or just parked at a show.
Why Is the Rocketbox Turning Heads at Auction?
The Rocketbox is set to be a highlight at Mecum’s Monterey auction, and it’s easy to see why. Earlier this year, a dealer listed it for just under $80,000—a price that puts it in the same ballpark as the new VW ID. Buzz. But let’s be real: the ID. Buzz, for all its tech and comfort, doesn’t have the Rocketbox’s soul. This Bus is a one-off, a piece of rolling art with a backstory and a personality.
Collectors and enthusiasts are drawn to vehicles with stories, and the Rocketbox has that in spades. It’s not just a fast van—it’s a tribute to a builder’s passion and creativity. That’s the kind of thing you can’t put a price on, but the auction block might try.
How Does the Rocketbox Compare to Modern VW Offerings?
Volkswagen’s new ID. Buzz is a nod to the past, but it’s built for today’s world—electric, safe, and practical. Yet, for all its modernity, it lacks the visceral thrill and handmade character of something like the Rocketbox. The ID. Buzz is what you buy for daily life. The Rocketbox? That’s what you buy when you want to make a statement.
It’s worth noting that the restomod scene is booming. According to a 2023 report from Hagerty, custom classics and restomods have seen a 30% increase in auction values over the past five years. Enthusiasts crave individuality, and the Rocketbox delivers that in spades.
What’s the Real Appeal of a Restomod Like This?
At the end of the day, the Rocketbox isn’t about practicality or even pure speed. It’s about taking something iconic and making it your own. It’s about craftsmanship, vision, and the willingness to break the mold. Cars like this remind us that automotive culture isn’t just about what’s new or fast—it’s about passion, creativity, and the stories we build along the way.
The big takeaway? Building or owning a restomod like the Rocketbox isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments and personal touches. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.