– beautifully restored VW Type 2 (T1) Microbus Deluxe, also known as “Samba”
– 21 window version with larger rear window
– first delivered to Los Angeles, USA
– approx. 30 years later exported to Japan
– in 2017 re-imported into Germany
– chromed hub caps and bi-colour paintwork with chrome trim strips
– Sapphire III transistor radio and folding sunroof, like it should be
– recent appraisal (2017) values this vehicle at € 98.000 (condition 2)
– German registration documents, valid technical approval until 07/2019 and historic plates
– loveable example of the highest appreciating VW bus variant
From reconstruction worker to cult object
The most successful German commercial vehicle has its roots in the postwar period – as a simple, reliable, spacious transporter it was available from 1950, with only 25 hp and a top speed of 80 km/h. That was it – that had to do.
Over the years, the requirements grew, and the “Splittie”, as it was referred to because of its split windscreen, grew too, and adapted itself: Different body shapes appeared, in addition to the closed van, there was the “Kombi” with three windows on each side. In 1951 came the – nowadays much sought-after – Samba bus with 23 windows, in 1952 the pickup. The crew-cab was available from 1959. Westfalia campers followed in 1960. From 1963, the larger engine of the VW 1500 became an option.
In 17 years, a total of 1.8 million T1 rolled off the assembly line, with one in five being sold outside Germany. A sight to behold were the colourfully painted hippie vans of the 1960s / 1970s. The T1 was loved in these circles too.