The DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, has added a unique vehicle to its collection: a 1996 Subaru Sambar that has been cleverly converted to resemble a vintage Volkswagen Microbus. This kei-class van, finished in a soft cream hue and adorned with VW-style badges, a roof rack, headlight visors, and retro styling cues, is a rolling tribute to classic camper culture with a Japanese twist.
Originally built for the Japanese domestic market, the Sambar is powered by a 658cc fuel-injected inline-four engine (the EN07F), which sends power to the rear or all four wheels via a five-speed manual transmission and selectable 4WD. A removable rear panel allows access to the compact engine in the cargo area, a hallmark of kei-class efficiency. Inside, the van features crank windows, air conditioning, and a Pioneer Mixtrax multimedia stereo, along with an aftermarket steering wheel and a simple gauge cluster with a 140 km/h speedometer and standard fuel and coolant temperature gauges.
Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, expressed enthusiasm about the new addition. 'This Sambar is absolutely irresistible,' he said. 'It's proof that fun and function can fit into a very tiny package. Whether you're into vintage VWs, JDM imports, or just love the unusual, this van puts a smile on every face that sees it.'
The museum, located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in North Fort Worth, houses over 200 rare cars and 3,000 toys and collectibles as part of the Ron Sturgeon Collection. The facility spans 150,000 square feet and offers free parking and admission. It also provides secure climate-controlled car storage and is available for events such as car club meetings and board gatherings. The museum is dog-friendly and encourages photography.
This 1996 Subaru Sambar continues the museum's tradition of celebrating unique and unexpected vehicles. Its microbus styling and practical features make it a standout piece that appeals to enthusiasts of vintage Volkswagens, JDM imports, and unusual automobiles. The museum regularly adds new vehicles, ensuring each visit offers a fresh experience.
For more information, visit the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com or the former website dfwelitetoymuseum.com.
