The Volkswagen Type 2 was introduced in 1950 as a multi-variant utility vehicle, known as the Transporter, Kombi or Microbus (depending on body type), and was devised as an evolution of the Volkswagen Type 1, the original Beetle. The first generation of these versatile vehicles (named the T1) was produced with distinctive split-screens from 1950 until 1967. Only two models were originally offered, the Kombi and the Commercial, the Microbus was added in May 1950, and was joined by the Deluxe Microbus in June 1951. The Deluxe Microbus (known as the 'Sunroof Deluxe' in America) was the most luxurious version of the Volkswagen Transporter T1. The Deluxe model featured eight rear side windows and two rear corner windows, making it the '15-window' but was not available in Europe. Meanwhile, the European-market Deluxe Microbus, with its additional eight small skylight windows is, accordingly, the '23-window'. From the 1964 model year with its wider rear door, the rear corner windows were discontinued, making the latter two, the 13-window and 21-window respectively. The 23 and later 21 window variants each carry the famous nickname 'Samba' and are particularly revered.

Presented in White over Burnt Orange and sitting on Fuchs wheels, this 15 window Type 2 Volkswagen is presented in good order having been first registered in 1964. A rare factory right hand drive example, this split screen was imported to the UK from South Africa in 2004 without the typical rust issues these models can suffer from. This air cooled, right hand drive split screen has a raft of upgrades including a rack and pinion steering conversion, narrowed beams, custom stainless sports exhaust, CSL front disc brakes, a hydraulic clutch slave, creative engineering air bags front and rear with we believe, a 50 litre air tank, independent rear suspension conversion with later Beetle gearbox, leisure battery with split charging, Pertronix electronic ignition, twin Weber conversion, Scat pushrod tubes, Scat shifter, immobiliser, rev counter and seatbelts on forward facing seats. Rounded off with sound deadening mats to all floors, a Hornet Thatcham immobiliser and Auto gauge rev counter.

In 2014, this example was subject to a full bare metal body restoration at Body & Soul Autoworks (Cardiff), the interior and exterior were painted in copper over and ivory at a cost of £5,500. Purchased by our vendor in early 2018 for wedding use earlier this year with our vendor considering retirement. For weddings use further enhancements were added such as the 1000w amplifier, subwoofer with retro sounds radio with Bluetooth which is currently disconnected. Our vendor states, 'it has been well maintained and is very reliable'. The rear pop out windows and seals have been replaced which can be a common problem. This example has recently been treated to a new clutch, drive shaft boots, Skat push rod tubes and a new Pertronix igniter cast electronic distributor and plug leads before a full engine tune with tappets, twin carbs and timing all reset professionally.

Boasting desirable Safari windows, a creative engineering rock n roll bed and Fuchs style alloys, this handsome and practical 'Splittie' is a very attractive proposition as it is, or to go one step further and go full camper! Consigned by Mathew Priddy

Lot details
Year: 1964
Make: Volkswagen
Model: 2 Split Screen Deluxe Kombi 15 window
Registration: GBD 783B
Chassis No: 1271057
Odometer: 32,171

* Desirable right hand drive example
* Upgrades including IRS, narrowed beams, air suspension, rack and pinion steering, Weber twin 40 IDF carburettor kit, electronic ignition
* Full bare metal repaint in 2014