Description
Volkswagen Type 2 Deluxe Microbus (T1 / Samba) | 1961
Highlights:
– 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, manual transmission
– Comprehensive restoration carried out some years ago, including the interior
– Ivory over Black paintwork with a contrasting leather interior and whitewall tyres
– Gearbox rebuilt and a new clutch fitted
– Reported by the seller to have appeared in several Hollywood and Bollywood film productions, and used for weddings and events for around 25 years
The seller offers for sale this 1961 Volkswagen Type 2 Deluxe Microbus, powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, paired with a manual transmission. The vehicle underwent a comprehensive restoration some years ago, including an extensive interior restoration and upgrade, and is finished in Ivory over Black with a contrasting leather interior and whitewall tyres. Being a vehicle of this age, some age-related marks and small imperfections are present, though the seller reports that it presents well both inside and out. The gearbox was rebuilt some years ago and a new clutch has since been fitted. The seller describes an unusual history for this bus: for around 30 years it has been a cherished vehicle, including reported appearances in a number of Hollywood and Bollywood film productions, and for the last 25 years it has also been used for weddings, proms and other special occasions and events.
The Volkswagen Type 2, known to enthusiasts as the “splitscreen” for its divided windscreen, was produced from 1950 to 1967 and shared its running gear with the Beetle. Within the range, the top-specification Deluxe Microbus, universally known by its nickname “Samba”, stood apart thanks to its full-length fabric sunroof, eight skylight windows set into the roof, and additional side glazing, giving it the airiest and most sociable cabin of any Type 2 variant. Early Sambas, including cars from the early 1960s, typically carried 23 windows in total, including curved glass in each rear corner; from the 1964 model year, Volkswagen fitted a wider rear door and deleted those corner windows, reducing the window count to 21. Engines grew over the Type 2’s production run from an original 1200cc unit up to 1500cc and, later, 1600cc, as Volkswagen responded to demand for more relaxed cruising ability.
The Samba’s combination of practicality, sociable seating and unmistakable 1960s countercultural image has made it one of the most collectible configurations of the classic VW bus, equally at home as a display piece, an event vehicle, or the basis for a camper conversion. This particular example’s restoration, together with its reported history in film and at weddings and events, adds a further layer of interest to what is already one of the most recognisable versions of the Volkswagen Type 2.
Condition of the bodywork & paint
4 — Very Good. Clean with minimal wear; might need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Condition of the interior
4 — Very Good. Clean with minimal wear; might need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical condition
4 — Very Good. Mechanically solid, with potential for minor servicing.
Overall condition
4 — Very Good. Displays only minimal wear and can hit the road any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
