1963 Volkswagen Type 2 'Split Screen' Camper Van

Registration no. ANH 273A Chassis no. 1110032

Footnotes

As readily recognisable as the immortal 'Beetle' itself and a 'cult' vehicle in its own right, the Volkswagen Type 2 and its derivatives enjoyed an even longer period in production than their saloon progenitor. The original was conceived in the late 1940s by a Dutch Volkswagen agent, Ben Pon, who drew up plans for a van based on the Beetle floor pan and running gear. Known as the Volkswagen Type 2 (the Beetle saloon being Type 1) the result of Pon's efforts arrived in 1950 and almost immediately proliferated into a bewildering variety of models catering for an enormous range of commercial and domestic activities. The original retained the Beetle's rear-mounted 1,200cc air-cooled engine and four-speed gearbox, the latter suitably re-ratioed to cope with the van's greater weight. Engines grew in size and power while both handling and comfort improved as development progressed. By 1968, when the first major revision of this outstandingly successful design occurred, almost two million had been sold worldwide. The replacement, also called 'Type 2', was an entirely new vehicle, larger and roomier than before but still rear-engined. The most obvious difference was the newcomer's single-piece wraparound windscreen, giving this model its 'Bay' sobriquet, whereupon the original, with its two-piece split screen, became known to devotees as the 'Splittie'. Power units grew in size from 1.6 to 2.0 litres before production ceased in 1978 with the introduction of the third generation.

This camper van's body was purchased from FBI Services in 2006 as a bare shell, imported from the USA; the vehicle was then restored and converted by JME Healeys between 2007 and 2008. Works carried out included conversion from left- to right-hand drive and switching the 'barn doors' to hang on the left side. A 2,084cc long-stroke high-torque engine was fitted, rebuilt around a new cylinder block and breathing via twin Weber carburettors. Other noteworthy features include a full oak veneer interior by marque specialists McKinnon Campers; 'rock 'n roll' bed; electric refrigerator; two-burner gas hob and sink 'combi'; new fabric seating; and new leather seats to the front. Dry stored since the restoration's completion in 2009, the camper is described by the private vendor as in generally excellent condition. Accompanying documentation consists of sundry restoration bills from both JME Healeys and McKinnon Campers, current MoT, and a V5C Registration Certificate. The perfect companion for Goodwood and other prestigious venues.