Lot 190 - 1957 Volkswagen Camper (Split Screen)

• Only two owners from new
• Restored 10 years ago to a very high standard
• Many upgrades fitted including engine and gearbox

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.

This genuine UK supplied right hand drive camper was originally registered on 17th August 1957. The current vendor purchased this Volkswagen from its first owner, on 1st February 2006. He enjoyed the vehicle for a few years taking his family away on holidays and days out. Around 10 years ago he embarked on a full restoration and what a fabulous restoration! This camper still presents in stunning condition today. During the restoration, the van was stripped to bare metal, any areas of corrosion were cut out and refabricated and the paintwork was redone in the original factory colour combination. The interior has been done in the original style by Kustom Interiors from Cornwall. The original engine has been upgraded to a fuel injected 2200cc 137bhp type four aircooled unit, built by Stateside Tuning. This is mated to a five-speed Porsche 915 gearbox that was built by Bears Motorsport. The front suspension is double wishbone and rack and pinion steering has been fitted courtesy of Red9design. The rear suspension is from a Porsche 944 IRS. Braking is via Porsche discs all round with Wilwood calipers and servo. The wheels are from an early 911 and the traditional VW hubcaps were specially made to retain the traditional look of the camper. Other improvements include 240/12volt conversion incorporating mains RCD, 240v hook-up plus 12v hook-up for solar panels and a Propex gas/electric heater. The two 100watt solar panels are sufficient to run the fridge during the day with the leisure batteries running the fridge at night. Supplied with a V5C registration document, a large folder of receipts together with the manuals for the equipment supplied, together with a bike rack. The quality of this Volkswagen camper needs to be viewed to be fully appreciated. The total expenditure of this remarkable vehicle exceeds the estimate by far.