Description
Volkswagen T1b Kombi | 1965
Highlights:
– Restored German-built bus with Dutch registration
– Fitted with a revised 1500cc H-series engine
– Original L87 pearl white finish
– Refreshed interior with vintage styling
– Recent technical approval
The seller offers for sale this 1965 Volkswagen T1b Kombi, a classic transporter originally manufactured in Germany for the U.S. market. The vehicle underwent restoration starting in 2015 and was approved by the Dutch RDW for registration in July 2021. It is now offered with Dutch plates and ready for road use.
Powered by a 1500cc air-cooled four-cylinder engine, this T1 is equipped with a four-speed manual transmission. The engine has been rebuilt and has reportedly covered approximately 3,000 miles since the overhaul. The Kombi delivers the engaging and simple driving experience expected of vintage Volkswagens, with a light, rear-wheel-drive setup.
The bus is finished in its factory-original L87 pearl white colour. The repaint retains a glossy appearance with a smooth finish, and the body is said to be in good condition. There is a minor scratch and dent on one of the rear bumper overriders, as shown in the listing images, but otherwise the vehicle is straight and well-presented. Chrome and stainless steel trim pieces are clean and bright.
Inside, the Kombi has received new upholstery on its front and rear seats as well as side panels, maintaining the original look while offering increased comfort. The rear headliner features insulating material, and the dashboard remains largely period-correct. The interior is described as beautiful with only minimal wear consistent with careful use.
Lights, indicators, and controls are in working order. The vehicle has passed a recent Dutch inspection.
The Volkswagen T1, often called the “Splitscreen” or “Splitty” due to its divided front windshield, debuted in 1950 as a practical and modular transport vehicle. By the time the T1b was introduced in the early 1960s, Volkswagen had refined the concept further, offering improved engines, better reliability, and a wide variety of body styles tailored to commercial and private use.
The T1 Kombi became an icon of counterculture and utility alike. Popular with tradespeople, families, and later the surfing and hippie movements, its simple mechanics and robust construction gave it lasting appeal. The air-cooled flat-four engine, mounted at the rear, delivered modest power but required minimal maintenance. Its spacious interior and adaptable configuration made it equally suitable as a cargo van, camper, or passenger bus.
Production of the T1 continued until 1967, after which it was succeeded by the T2 “Bay Window” model. The early models like this 1965 Kombi are now highly sought after for their aesthetic charm, collectible status, and enduring usability. Restored examples with upgraded engines and valid road registration are particularly appealing to collectors and classic car enthusiasts who value originality balanced with usability.
This 1965 T1b Kombi represents a well-preserved piece of automotive history, with recent mechanical attention and care evident in its presentation. Its timeless design and practical layout continue to make it a favourite among enthusiasts looking to combine nostalgic driving with versatile use.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at 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.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Noord Brabant province, the Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
