Highlights

Fantastic condition throughout
Painstakingly restored by specialists
Once featured in the January 1995 edition of Volksworld VW magazine

The Appeal

The Volkswagen Samba, especially the 21-window variant, is not just a vehicle; it's a cultural phenomenon, an emblem of freedom and exploration that harkens back to the 1960s and '70s. Conceived during the postwar era in Germany, this delightful microbus quickly evolved from a utilitarian vehicle to a symbol of counterculture and lifestyle. The 21-window design is particularly iconic, offering a panoramic, almost cinematic, driving experience. When you're behind the wheel, it's easy to imagine you're cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway or attending a historic music festival, even if you're just on a weekend escape.

This specific 1964 VW Samba Deluxe is a rare find in today's market, particularly in such an immaculate state. The 21-window models have become increasingly scarce, with many fetching astronomical prices at auctions and private sales. What sets this bus apart is not only its rarity but the painstaking attention to detail in its restoration. The harmonious blend of Turkish Blue and white on the exterior, coupled with an interior that retains much of its original oak fittings, make this a showpiece worthy of the most discerning collector.

Yet, it's not a museum piece; it's fully equipped for the road and the adventures that await. With a slightly bored-out engine for that extra push and modern upgrades like front disc brakes and an electronic ignition, it balances historical allure with present-day practicality seamlessly. Given its top-notch condition inside and out, this Samba stands as one of the finest examples of a cultural icon, promising the next owner not just a vehicle, but an entire lifestyle.

History and Paperwork

MOT and tax exempt
Fully restored between 2014 and 2015 with detailed invoices by Matt Smith (Smiths VW) and engine rebuild by Nigel Allen
All of the extensive invoicing is in digital format
Graced the pages of the January 1995 Volksworld VW magazine
Yearly services since the restoration with invoices

The Interior

Authentic oak interior preserved during restoration
Features original Dudley stove, original refrigerator, and water pump
All flooring, curtains, fabrics, and seats replaced to closely mimic original materials
Both front seats in excellent condition
Rear seating converts to a fold-out bed, also in excellent condition
Steering wheel and dashboard present superbly
Complete with the rare dashboard mounted clock

Stepping into the cabin of this 1964 VW Samba 21-Window Deluxe is akin to entering a well-lit, meticulously crafted time capsule. The 21-window design is one of the interior's standout features, flooding the space with natural light and offering a panoramic view of your surroundings. This feature, unique to the Samba's design, makes for a delightful and airy driving experience that cannot be replicated by modern vehicles.

The attention to detail in the restoration is evident everywhere you look. The floor, curtains, fabrics, and linings have all been replaced with materials that closely match the original, maintaining the bus's authentic charm. A white steering wheel and the rare clock on the dashboard echo the vehicle's classic roots. While there's an original Dudley stove and fridge to cater to your camping needs, a retro radio (with bluetooth) adds a touch of modern convenience without compromising the vintage aesthetic.

Every element inside this Samba has been chosen with both form and function in mind. The lap belts are an essential addition, offering a layer of safety while you traverse modern roads. The colour coordination, a harmonious blend that matches the exterior, adds a final touch of elegance to the space. It's clear that the restoration aimed to preserve the original spirit and functionality of the Samba, creating an interior that’s both inviting and immensely enjoyable to be in, whether you're cruising down the highway or setting up camp for the night.

The Exterior

Stripped down to bare metal and refurbished meticulously
Classic good looks of a cultural icon
Canvas roof presents superbly
Resprayed with eye-catching Turkish Blue and white paint
Bodywork in excellent condition
All of the wheels are in perfect condition
The panoramic windows and their seals are all in excellent condition
Badges, light lenses and all other trim in the same fantastic condition as the rest of the vehicle

The exterior of this 1964 VW Samba 21-Window Deluxe is nothing short of breathtaking. Its iconic design still holds immense appeal today, capturing the spirit of freedom and adventure that defined the 1960s and '70s. One of the standout features, of course, is the unique 21-window configuration. This is more than just a design gimmick; it's an architectural statement that offers unparalleled panoramic views and bathes the interior in natural light, making every journey a visual spectacle.

The paintwork is another masterpiece in itself. The bus has been resprayed in Turkish Blue and white, a colour scheme that epitomises vintage charm. The paint remains in impeccable condition, thanks to a top-tier restoration and the fact that it's been stored in a heated garage year-round since. The brightwork, from the chrome bumpers to the door handles, is in excellent condition, adding another layer of authenticity to this classic.

But the appeal of this Samba's exterior isn't merely skin deep. It was restored by specialists who have taken great care to maintain its original aesthetic, and it shows. This isn't just a vehicle; it's a time capsule, a rolling piece of history that draws eyes and starts conversations wherever it goes. The fact that it was featured in the January 1995 issue of Volksworld VW magazine only adds to its storied past and enduring allure. Simply put, this VW Samba is a perfect blend of form and function, a tribute to an era long gone but not forgotten, and it’s waiting for its next chapter.

The Mechanics

Engine re-sleeved with new pistons to 92mm (1,835cc) to deliver additional torque
Front disc brakes installed for improved stopping power
Starts easily and idles well
Engine rebuild by Nigel Allen
Stainless-steel exhaust system installed
Equipped with a new, more robust alternator
Upgraded to electronic ignition for reliability
The owner reports that it drives perfectly
Fitted with a larger battery to meet modern electrical demands
Enhanced lighting for increased visibility and safety
Engine bay and undersides in excellent condition

Mechanically, this Samba is robust and reliable. The 1,600cc engine has been re-sleeved to 1,835cc, delivering the extra torque you need to make uphill climbs effortless and cruising on modern roads much more comfortable. Front disc brakes provide a level of stopping power that brings contemporary safety to a classic driving experience. A stainless-steel exhaust system not only adds durability but also contributes a bit of modern flair. Every mechanical element has been either restored or upgraded to ensure this Samba is as reliable as it is charming.

Summary

This 1964 VW Splitscreen 21 Window Samba Deluxe is more than a classic vehicle; it's a beautifully restored icon that delivers both classic allure and modern-day reliability. With its eye-catching exterior, authentically recreated interior, and robust mechanics, this Samba is not only a testament to the quality of Volkswagen's iconic design but also to the expertise and care that have gone into its restoration.

Whether you’re looking to relive the magic of the '60s or seeking a functional classic for your next road trip, this Samba Deluxe promises an unparalleled experience.

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