Versatile cabin with good units and lots of storage
Nicely detailed being lowered with Fuchs and full length luggage rack
Older restoration by renowned Volkswagen specialist
Regularly used and 100% reliable with vendor
Will be sold with a fresh 12 months MOT
The Appeal
Few vehicles have been designed so fully for function yet offer such distinctive, compelling form as the humble Volkswagen Type 2. Early ‘splittys’ particularly lean into this with their delicate detailing and iconic style.
The first notable changes to the 1950 original came in 1955 with revisions to the doors and roofline, these vehicles retrospectively known as the T1b. In 1963 came a more powerful 1,500cc version of the proven air-cooled motor.
This stunning 1963 T1b has that later engine and is finished in factory-correct Dove Blue. It is close to immaculate thanks to an older and clearly sympathetic restoration by a renowned model specialist in Poole. There is a well laid out, versatile interior and some choice modifications including lowering, Fuchs and that lovely roof rack, all of which merely increase the appeal of this gorgeous van.
The seller reports that it has been 100% reliable during the three years he has owned it and is reluctantly selling due to needing more space.
The History and Paperwork
Volkswagen Heritage Certificate shows first registered 16th January 1963
This confirms the current Dove Blue is factory correct
It retains its factory correct right hand loading doors configuration
First UK registered on 20th July 1998
Unfortunately we know little of its history prior to arrival in the UK
Good history file but vendor reports it hasn’t required any work during his ownership
Owner acquired it on 14th June 2019
Last MOT expired on 23rd November 2020 at recorded 50,613 miles
Vendor has advised he will arrange a fresh 12 months MOT before collection
We are told it was restored by a renowned specialist on its arrival in the UK in 2007
The Condition
Described as ‘like new’ by the seller and showing very few imperfections
Older high quality restoration finished in factory correct Dove Blue with white highlights
We are told it was fully refurbished at that time
Underside presents very well with no issues to report and good underseal treatment
Full leather custom trim in well kept condition
Full length period-correct roof rack
Lowered and fitted with chromed Fuchs-style alloys with Porsche centre caps
Well fitted interior with plenty of storage space including on ‘barn’ doors
Largely original with popular and tasteful enhancements outside and in
Original two spoke black factory steering wheel with painted dashboard and VDO dials
Quality Bridgestone tyres showing plenty of tread
Roof mounted TV screen and quality JVC stereo
Factory correct rubber floor mats
Versatile cabin space with table and beds
The Type 2 lends itself well to modification but there is something hugely appealing about a largely standard example like this beautiful ‘splittie.’ We are told that it was restored by a renowned specialist upon its arrival in the UK in 2007. This work was clearly done to a high standard as it has held up exceptionally well - helped by careful owners - and it faithfully replicated the factory specification, as the helpful Volkswagen Heritage Certificate verifies.
The variations from standard are all ones that enthusiasts of this scene will surely welcome: it has been lowered and placed upon smart chromed Fuchs-style alloys.
Inside and out this is an exceptionally well presented van whose condition is matched by the quality and practicality of the fittings.
The Mechanics
Later post-1963 1,498cc air cooled Volkswagen engine
4spd manual gearbox
We are told that the van operates ‘like new’ and starts every time
Standard factory layout with rear wheel drive
Lowered suspension
The vibrant scene around these vans enables a host of upgrades and modifications, including fitting non-standard engines. But there is an equally vocal group who value originality and this van is likely to appeal to them.
It is fitted with the larger 50bhp 1.5litre version of the air cooled Volkswagen engine that was available from 1963 for the Type 2. This is mated to a 4spd gearbox. The only variation from factory correct specificaiton is the lowered suspension.
Unfortunately we know little of the van’s maintenance and service records but the owner reports that it has been 100% reliable and no work has been required since he acquired it in June 2019. It will be sold with a fresh MOT.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
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