Description
This is a distinctive 1965 Volkswagen Type 2 Split Screen, left-hand drive and now UK registered.
The bus has a really interesting history. It was originally found in Brazil around 15 years ago and imported to the Netherlands by a work colleague of mine. He then had the bus extensively restored and upgraded, after which it was kept dry in his private “man cave” for around three years.
When he later moved to Switzerland, he eventually decided to sell it to me. I then imported the bus from the Netherlands into England and completed the UK registration process.
A major part of the restoration was the engine. It has a fully rebuilt, effectively new air-cooled engine, which explains the very low mileage since the rebuild. The engine is beautifully finished with extensive chrome and polished detailing, and the engine bay is one of the standout features of the bus. It also has a twin-exit exhaust.
The exterior is finished in navy blue and ivory with retro flower artwork, chrome wheels, white bumpers and opening safari-style front windows. Inside, it has retrimmed grey/ blue seating and matching trim while retaining the classic VW dashboard and steering wheel.
Another major feature is the professionally installed JBL audio system, with approximately £20, 000 invested in the installation, including multiple JBL speakers and subwoofers built into the rear of the vehicle.
I have an extensive photographic record of the restoration, including the bodywork, interior and mechanical build.
The bus runs and drives and presents very well. As with any classic of this age, there are some minor cosmetic imperfections and a couple of small jobs still to complete. The speedometer currently requires a replacement cable, and one door currently needs to be opened from the inside rather than via the exterior handle.
I originally bought the bus intending to keep it, but unfortunately I simply do not have the space to store it properly. It is far too special to be left sitting outside, and I would much rather see it go to a collector or enthusiast who can look after it and enjoy it properly.
It is a genuinely unusual Split Screen with a great history, extensive restoration, a beautifully rebuilt chrome engine and a very high-end audio installation.
It has the classic Split Screen look, but the restoration, chrome engine, retro flower design and huge JBL audio installation make it genuinely unique.
What I love most is the engine bay. The rebuilt air-cooled engine with all the chrome and polished detailing looks fantastic and really shows the level of work that went into the restoration.
The history also makes it special to me — found in Brazil, restored in the Netherlands, kept dry for years by a colleague and then eventually brought over to England by me.
It gets attention everywhere it goes and has far more personality than a standard restored bus. I originally intended to keep it long term, but I simply don’t have the right space for it, and I’d rather see it go to someone who will really appreciate what it is.
For me, it’s the combination of classic VW character, unusual history, rebuilt engine and one-off custom touches that makes it stand out.
