Highlights
- Stand-out Splitty restored to very high standard
- Tastefully specified with smart, unusual interior
- Usefully fitted with a tuned 1776cc twin carb engine
- Californian van imported to UK in noughties
The Appeal
Few vehicles have changed the face of motoring quite like the original T1 ‘Splitty.’ This simple yet stylish van started out as a camper van and then a surf bus before evolving into a proper lifestyle scene of its own.
The joy of these vans is that whatever you want to do to them, it’s ok: nobody is really fussed about originality. That has worked as a green light to customisers and modifiers who can work wonders on these classic vans.
This marvellous ’67 Splitscreen reflects that ethos. Looking at the photos it is easy to see why it is a former Best Camper in Show winner, its two tone bronze and cream colour scheme showcasing the customiser’s art. Inside there is a similarly bespoke and high quality lounge-style interior.
Now for sale by its long term owner, this is a great looking van that will enliven any trip.
The History and Paperwork
- First UK registered 19th January 2006
- We are told it is a California import first registered in 1967
- This would make it one of the last T1s built before T2 production began
- Previous a bus that has been sympathetically converted
- The DVLA records a colour change from original blue/white on 24th September 2008
- It seems likely that this was when it was converted following its arrival in the UK
- Unfortunately at the time of writing we do not have access to the service records
- New MOT provided at auction end
- Previous test had advisories for track rod ends and suspension mountings
The Condition
- Restored to a high standard with abundance of bespoke fittings through interior
- Attractive bronze and cream colour scheme continues inside with carefully coloured trim items
- Largely standard exterior except for lowering and of course those lovely chrome alloys
- Five spoke chrome allots with standard hub fixings in good order
- Fitted with quality Pirelli tyres showing good tread
- Underside presents well with older underseal visible
- Full length roof rack sets off the classic style
- Useful ‘double door’ version that opens up the interior space
- Great factory detailing including chrome side highlights and pop out windscreens
- Some bubbling visible to common areas such as below both front doors
- Chrome headlamp protectors
- Some corrosion visible to offside front headlamp surround
- Handful of minor stone chips and light scratches visible to bodywork
- Interior is a delight with bronze trim and subtle two-tone seats in cream and latte
- Wrap around rear seat a treat and helpfully fitted with seatbelts
- Cabin is tastefully upgraded with auxiliary dials and unit in headlining
- Attractive cream classic ‘sprung’ steering wheel
- Quality colour-coordinated carpets throughout
- Bespoke cabinets under seats and in front with stained wood finish in good order
- Headlining in good order with no noticeable marks or scuffs
- Cutlery and crockery set inset into rear of cabin seat
- Matching spare chromed alloy
- Chromed handbrake and shifter
This T1 was imported from California in 2006 and appears to have been restored and upgraded shortly after when there is a record of a colour change. The work has clearly been done to a very high standard by a specialist who knows their way around these vehicles – neat details abound inside and out as revealed by the photographs.
The interior in particular is a delight, its vast curving bench appropriately leaning into the relaxing and unwinding nature of these characterful vans. The trim and fittings are in good order and of a high quality.
There are some very localised indications that this is an older restoration but they do not detract from what is a very well presented classic van.
The Mechanics
- Uprated 1776cc air cooled Volkswagen engine with twin carburettors
- 4spd manual gearbox
- Unfortunately we know little of the service and maintenance history
A benefit of the very long production run for Volkswagen’s air cooled campers is that it provides a lot of scope for upgrading earlier ones. This can be tempting and rewarding because the first ones had small engines not always entirely suited to motorway motoring.
This van is fitted with a uprated 1776cc air cooled engine. It is a popular and very desirable upgrade that will significantly increase the usability – helped along by what we are told is some choice tuning.
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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