Did you know that our article on the Gulf Oil Design is regularly one of the most visited posts here on the blog? So it’s only logical that we now introduce you to the new VW T1 Panel Van (Revell Shoplink), better known as the Bulli, which we now also have in the classic Gulf Oil Design. Buckle up, because we’re taking a time trip back to the era of the economic miracle and motorsport.
The VW T1 Bulli – A Rolling Legend
The VW T1, internally referred to as Type 2, is not just a vehicle – it is a driving icon of the German economic miracle. Produced in Germany from 1950 to 1967, the Bulli was Volkswagen’s second model after the Beetle. With its characteristic design – the split windshield and the large VW logo – it quickly won people’s hearts.
Special Features of the VW Bulli T1
What makes the T1 so special? First of all, its versatility. Whether as a panel van, minibus, or flatbed truck – the Bulli was a real multitasker. With its air-cooled boxer engine, which initially delivered modest 25 hp, it was no race car, but a reliable companion in everyday life. A technical special feature was the portal axle at the rear. This enabled a level loading floor and made the T1 the ideal transporter. And did you know that the first models still had turn signals instead of flashers? It was not until 1960 that the characteristic conical flashers above the front headlights were introduced.
There are countless stories surrounding the Bulli.
One of my favorite anecdotes is the origin of its nickname. “Bulli” is supposedly made up of the initial letters of “Bus” and “delivery van”. Others believe it comes from its bull-like appearance compared to the Beetle. Whatever it is – the name is cult to this day! Another cool story: The Dutch importer Ben Pon is said to have had the idea for the T1. On a visit to the Wolfsburg plant in 1947, he saw a converted Beetle flatbed and sketched the basic form of the later Bulli.
In the 60s, it became a symbol of the hippie movement and the desire for freedom. To this day, it stands for adventure, road trips, and sweet life on the road. No wonder well-preserved examples fetch top prices today! But the Bulli was not just a hippie vehicle. It was also a loyal servant of the economy. Hardly any craft business or company with service technicians that did not rely on the reliable T1 in the 50s, 60s, and 70s.
The VW T1 Bus Model Kit – A Dream for Crafters
Now to the model kit (Revell Shoplink) in 1:24 scale. What makes it so special? First of all, the detail accuracy. This makes the build at Level 5 demanding and something for experienced crafters. From 123 individual parts, you get an 18 cm long finished model.
From the characteristic front to the thoughtfully designed interior – everything is just right here and makes the model kit not only a great display piece but also an educational project for all who want to learn more about the T1’s technology. And: With the set, you get everything you need for the build – glue, paints, brush: All included.
- Multi-part body
- Movable side doors
- Rotatable wheels
- Illustrated, multilingual building instructions
- Decals
- Base colors (Revell Aqua Color)
- Glue (Revell Contacta Professional Mini)
- Brush
The Gulf Oil Design – An Unexpected Connection
Now comes the highlight: This model kit comes in the legendary Gulf Oil Design. The light blue color with the orange stripe is familiar to every motorsport fan.
But what does that have to do with the Bulli?
At first glance, there seems to be no direct connection between Gulf Oil and the VW T1. Gulf Oil was primarily active in motorsport, while the Bulli was known for its reliability in everyday life. But that’s exactly the appeal:
This unusual combination makes the model kit something very special. Imagine you’re at a race in the 60s. In the pit lane stands this eye-catching Bulli in Gulf Design, packed full of spare parts and tools. It may not be as fast as the race cars, but it is the heart of the team – reliable, spacious, and unmistakable.
This fits perfectly with our currently also available in the Revell Shop 
’65 Shelby Cobra 427 in Gulf Oil Design!
Let your creativity run free and create your own piece of automotive history in miniature format. Have fun crafting!