Lot details Registration No: Un-Reg Chassis No: 1283044 Mot Expiry: None
The Type 2, as its name suggests, was the second variant of the VW Beetle (Type 1), using the same running gear and was introduced in 1950. Multiple types as well as `specials' were always offered, ranging from panel van to camper and even fire engine - the Type 2 can justifiably lay claim to being the world's first minivan, and its first `people carrier'. Starting with only an 1131cc, 25bhp power unit, this was enlarged to 1192cc in 1953, and power was upped to 40bhp in 1959. This particular T2 has the 1493cc, 50bhp power unit, optional from 1962. In 1967, the biggest visual change occurred when the original split-windscreen design was replaced by a smoothed-out T2 version with single windscreen; though these so-called `bay-windows' have their devotees, the `splittie' is the true collectible.
All are highly sought after, and at the top of the tree comes the sunroof deluxe minibus version with rooflights and canvas panel known as the Samba - in this case a 21-window with its eight roof lights, that has been subject to a meticulous restoration to original specifications, retaining its charming hinge-opening windscreen panes and period pushbutton radio. The only apparent deviation is a pair of modern speakers discreetly let into the kickboard trim panel. Sambas had 23 windows until 1963, when the rear door was widened and the two rear corner rear windows deleted as a result. These 'buses are incredibly rare, with only five thought to remain in the US, for example, where a 21-window sold at auction last year for $71,500.
This Samba was mechanically and bodily restored in 2007 and 2008 (total project cost including acquisition was reportedly 87,462 EUROS), and the owner describes it as cosmetically "excellent" except for the headliner which is "original and good", while he rates the engine and transmission as "very good". The only faults he notes are that the right front door does not lock and the driver's sunvisor is somewhat loose. Indeed, he put his faith in this immaculate left-hand drive `split' by driving over from Paris a couple of weeks before the sale, turning heads all the way with its immaculate two-tone paint set off by whitewall tyres. Currently French registered, it last passed its French Controle Technique, which is good for two years, in May 2008, and there are no duties to pay as long as it stays in the EU. Almost unrepeatable.
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