Description
Volkswagen T1 Bus | 1965
Highlights:
- Restored to high visual and mechanical standard
- Only 70 km since restoration, mileage verified
- Classic 1600cc petrol engine with manual gearbox
- Retains original styling with fresh paint and interior
- Registered in the Netherlands and ready to drive
The seller offers for sale this 1965 Volkswagen T1 Bus, widely recognized as one of the most iconic people movers in automotive history. This particular T1 has undergone a restoration and is presented in a beautiful condition. It has only been driven 70 kilometers since completion, and the mileage is verified. The restoration appears, with the seller referring to a detailed valuation report and supporting images that show a clean, well-finished result.
This T1 is powered by an air-cooled 1600cc petrol engine, driving the rear wheels through a manual transmission. The vehicle is registered in the Netherlands and includes the appropriate Dutch documentation. The van retains its original bodywork lines and presents in strong condition across the board.
The exterior paintwork is beautiful. The images support the claim of a high-quality restoration, with no bodywork or touch-ups noted as necessary. Panels appear clean and well-aligned. Chrome trim, glass, and lighting all look to be intact and presentable.
Inside, the bus has a fresh appearance. The seller states that all interior components are in excellent condition, with no need for replacements. While minimal interior detail is given in text, the photos indicate that both the seating and dashboard are in strong aesthetic shape, matching the vehicle’s overall restored standard.
Mechanically, the vehicle is described as functioning well.
The Volkswagen T1, often called the “Splitscreen” due to its divided front windshield, was introduced in 1950 as the first-generation Transporter. Originally designed as a utilitarian van, it quickly became synonymous with freedom, travel, and counterculture movements, especially in the 1960s and 1970s. Its iconic silhouette and simple engineering made it a global phenomenon and a favorite among adventurers, families, and commercial users alike.
Produced until 1967, the T1 is especially prized in the collector community for its classic design, quirky engineering, and cultural relevance. The air-cooled engine is mounted in the rear, providing a flat load floor and good traction for the era. Despite modest performance figures, the T1’s appeal lies in its charm, simplicity, and versatility.
Many restored examples, like this one, are now used for shows, special events, or promotional purposes, while others remain functional for leisure travel. The T1 Bus’s enduring popularity means it’s supported by a strong aftermarket, with parts and service readily available across Europe.
This particular 1965 example benefits from being restored to a condition that balances historical accuracy with usability. It retains original design features while benefiting from a near-new finish, making it a desirable and driveable collector’s vehicle. Whether for business branding, road trips, or simply as a standout piece in a private collection, this T1 offers a chance to own a timeless symbol of postwar mobility.
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 Limburg 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.
