Highlights
- Rare right-hand-drive example
- 1776cc engine upgrade
- VW Factory ‘birth certificate’ present
- Only two registered UK keepers
- 8,544 miles indicated - believed to be the mileage covered since restoration
- Beautifully fully restored with a beige finish, as well as wood and leather interior whilst in care of former keeper - photo documentation of restoration
- Presents in very good order throughout.
The Appeal
“Carmen”, the name of this Type 2 ‘split screen’ 23-window Microbus Deluxe (also known as the Samba) is considered the crème de la crème of classic VW campervans. This makes it a very rare find indeed and is highly sought after. The 8 windows in the roof sets the “samba” apart from run of the mill ‘splitscreens’ not only making it look charming but also allows more light to enter and enable passengers a much greater view of the scenery around.
The 23-window model production ceased in 1963, being replaced with the less preferred 21-window successor.
This particular example left the factory in 1961 and was delivered new to the Sudan.
When discovered in the Sudan it had bullet holes in the side and a secret compartment too. Registered in the UK in 2014, the vehicle was extensively restored and upgraded- a full nuts and bolts restoration. There is extensive photo documentation to support this and these restorers are happy to answer relevant questions if required
A few of these upgrades included an uprated 1776cc engine, ultra lowered suspension, full Paris sunroof, new gearbox and additional soundproofing.
Carmen has been part of the current owners’ wedding vehicle fleet, has been used sparingly throughout his current ownership tenure, and has been dry-stored during periods of inactivity, making it ready for the next owner to simply jump in and enjoy.
History & Paperwork
- V5 registered keepers certificate showing just 1 former UK owner
- Volkswagen factory heritage ‘birth’ certificate showing original factory specification
- The V5 shows the 1800 upgrade from the original 1200 (1776) engine swap correctly, along with being registered as a historic vehicle. The new engine is still air cooled and has retained that gorgeous unmistakable sound as a result.
- The vehicle is MOT and tax exempt. However, for peace of mind, the current owner has a current MoT on “Carmen’ valid until 29 April 2025 with no advisory items
The Condition
- Restored to a very high standard in 2014
- Limited use in current ownership has preserved the condition of the vehicle
- Exterior finished off in a lovely beige colour
- Some age-related patina visible to otherwise very smart chrome and paintwork
- The interior has been extensively refurbished with a ‘snug’ style rear seat, wood panelling and leather throughout
- The sliding ‘rag top’ roof fits well and operates correctly
- Well-supported ceiling fabric exhibiting only minimal wear.
This 23-window Samba presents in very good condition, and certainly turns plenty of heads wherever it goes. Restored whilst in the care of the previous keeper including a respray and full interior/exterior overhaul, it presents beautifully throughout with minimal wear and tear. We adore those twin roof racks and the vehicle's subtly lowered stance.
The paintwork presents very well overall, retaining a glossy and even shine. As expected, there are one or two small bubbling patches and a fine paint crack along the lower nearside edge of the front valence. The inside is all in fine order - especially the upholstery which presents beautifully although there is some light wear on high traffic areas.
The seller is not aware of any faults with any of the electrical systems or switchgear.
The Mechanics
- 1,776 engine upgrade
- Reconditioned Gearbox
- 12 V electrics
- Twin carbs
- Stainless steel exhaust
- In excellent health
- Suspension refurbishment and lowered during previous restoration
- Disc brake upgrade on front axle
- MoT until April 2025
During the aforementioned restoration, the engine, running gear and chassis also received a full overhaul, including a disc brake upgrade on the front axle, and full suspension overhaul with numerous powder coated / painted components.
The original 1200 engine has been replaced with a much more powerful 1776 unit, with the seller stating that the car will happily cruise along at normal speeds and keep up with traffic. The owner states that there are no known mechanical or electrical faults.
The most recent MoT - carried out in April 2024 - resulted in a first-time pass with no advisory items. The seller states that he has carried out oil and filter changes during his ownership and has enjoyed generally maintaining this stunning vehicle to keep it in an excellent working condition
Any independent inspection before the auction is welcome and encouraged. This is a stunning piece of automobile history!
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:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ 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.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]
