Highlights

Verified by the Stiftung AutoMuseum Volkswagen with a production date of 11th January 1961
Australian-sourced shell described by the vendor as an honest foundation with no evidence of previous body repairs
Extensive restoration and camper van conversion carried out from 2019
Camper specification including Dometic fridge/freezer, hob, sink and electrical hook-up

The Appeal

Dutch VW importer Ben Pon recognised great potential in the Type 1 'Beetle' floor pan. Besides a world-leading passenger car, Pon saw that the chassis could support a commercial body. His sketches led to the Type 2, spawning one of the most successful and, dare we say, iconic vans of all time.

The first-generation 'Split Screen' is the camper van that started it all, an enduring icon of freedom, adventure and utilitarian design. More than six decades since production ended, demand for well-sorted examples continues to outstrip supply, and the quality of the base vehicle and its restoration are what separate the truly desirable from the rest.

Our example has a great deal going for it. Produced on 11th January 1961 as a 214 Delivery Van and exported new to Australia, it spent decades in the dry Australian climate before being repatriated to the UK in 2019. That antipodean life has paid dividends: the vendor describes the shell as an honest foundation, free from evidence of previous body repairs. Upon its return, the van underwent what the vendor describes as a "nut-and-bolt" restoration and full camper van conversion.

The bodywork received a bare-metal respray in a handsome two-tone Volkswagen Pearl White and Pastel White scheme, with the shell treated with anti-rust primer and internally injected with rust preventer. Mechanically, the engine has been upgraded to 1,641cc with new pistons, barrels and twin 34 carburettors, while the braking system, suspension, clutch and gearbox have all been rebuilt or renewed. The camper interior is thoughtfully specified, featuring Hacienda White cabinetry, a Dometic CRX50 fridge/freezer, hob cooker, sink, mains hook-up and a split-charge system.

With its verified Volkswagen museum provenance, solid Australian origins and thorough restoration, this Splitscreen represents a strong opportunity for anyone seeking a ready-to-enjoy classic campervan with real substance behind its charm.

History and Paperwork

Production date verified as 11th January 1961 by the Stiftung AutoMuseum Volkswagen
Originally built as a 214 VW Delivery Van and exported to Australia
Imported from Australia in 2019 and now registered on UK plates
Showing 22,000 miles on the odometer (indicated, unwarranted)
MOT and road tax-exempt
Registration plate included in the sale

The Condition

The vendor describes the Australian-sourced shell as an honest foundation with no evidence of previous body repairs
Bare-metal respray inside and out in two-tone Volkswagen Pearl White (lower) and Pastel White (upper)
Shell treated with anti-rust primer and internally injected with rust preventer; chassis stripped and refinished in Pearl White
Bumpers, wheels, indicators and steering wheel refinished in white; all door, window and engine bay seals replaced
New tyres all round with larger rear wheels and refurbished original front wheels (sandblasted and refinished)
Cabin fitted with new tan upholstery with cream piping
Camper interior finished in Hacienda White cabinetry with generous storage, overhead cupboard and integrated wine rack
Dometic CRX50 fridge/freezer, hob cooker and sink with chrome tap
Switch panel with 2 mains sockets, 2 USB ports, 12V socket and voltmeter
Hook-up socket with Numax charger and split-charge system; starter and leisure batteries
Gas locker with new bottle and twin 10L fresh water containers
Bluetooth radio with 6x9 rear speakers
Six warm white LED spotlights and LED floor lighting
Chrome wing mirrors, cream sun visors and rear-view mirror
OEM chrome door handles with matching key set for all locks and ignition
Custom Madmatz cab carpet and stainless steel moon hubcaps

The Mechanics

1.6-litre (1,641cc) air-cooled flat-four
Four-speed manual transmission
Engine upgraded with new pistons and barrels, twin 34 carburettors and additional new components
Gearbox serviced and refinished; straight axle conversion carried out
Adjustable suspension and upgraded EMPI shock absorbers fitted
Rebuilt braking system including new master cylinder, brake lines, hoses, cylinders and shoes
Spindles and link pins rebuilt by a specialist
New clutch kit, starter motor, cables, axle bearings and seals throughout
Deep oil sump fitted
Four-tip Monza exhaust fitted

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 fee. 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..