>> In the same way that all Vanagon enthusiasts have proven that there
>> are
>> infinite ways to modify these vehicles, I think that there are also
>> infinite
>> ways to culturally interpret them. 

Even though I didn't grow up in the era of the early busses and the American cultural associated with them, I consider my 90 Westy (and previous 85 Westy) as an extension of that earlier time. 

Besides being my daily driver, our bus(es) have been a means to bring my family closer together. It's a way my wife, kids and I can create our own, modern version of American history that so many others experienced as families in previous generations. It was (and is) the bus/bay/vanagon/EV that is very much a part of that experience. 

...I feel a group hug coming on