The green side: 1960 Tempo Wiking Rapid

Tempo, founded in 1924 in Hamburg, specialized in light commercial vehicles and three-wheelers. In the 1950s and 1960s, the company produced the Wiking series, a line of small transporters designed for businesses and tradespeople. The Wiking Rapid featured a two-stroke engine, simple mechanics, and a practical design. Production numbers were limited, and few examples have survived in original condition.

At first glance, many will notice its resemblance to the Volkswagen Bus, but this van has its own distinct character and, more importantly, is far rarer than its counterpart from Wolfsburg. This 1960 Tempo Wiking Rapid is in unrestored condition and comes from first ownership. The original vehicle registration document (KFZ-Brief) is included, along with the original operating and service manuals and the original toolkit. The seller says that the engine runs, and the gearbox shifts, but the braking system is non-functional due to long-term storage.

The body is complete but shows visible rust, particularly on the lower panels and wheel arches. The paint is worn, with chipping and exposed metal in several areas. The interior remains largely original. The dashboard and controls show signs of wear, while the bench seat appears to have been reupholstered. The floor and door panels have rust, especially around the pedals. The engine bay is intact, but the engine itself appears to be a four-stroke unit, likely replaced at some point to improve reliability and fuel efficiency. Mechanical components and the frame have visible rust. The vehicle requires mechanical work and rust repairs but remains a strong candidate for preservation or restoration. Find it for sale at €8,500 (today $9,200) here in Dresden, Germany.

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