1987 Volkswagen Type 2 Panelvan

• Iconic Volkswagen commercial vehicle
• Porsche Renndiest (Racing Service) livery
• Professionally restored
• Ideal support vehicle for a classic racing team

As readily recognisable as the immortal 'Beetle' itself, 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. Three models were available in 1950: the Panelvan, Microbus and Kombi, the latter a multi-purpose design featuring additional seats that could easily be removed to enlarge the load-carrying area.

The first major revision of this outstandingly successful design occurred in 1968, by which time 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'.

Imported by the vendor, this left-hand drive Type 2 Panelvan has been extensively restored by them and is described as a good and solid example that did not require any structural changes. The vehicle is fitted with a Cyclops searchlight on the cab roof, while the interior seats are wine coloured with cream piping. The 1,600cc engine is said to be very good and during the rebuild had parts that needed refurbishment either replaced or reconditioned. This classic Volkswagen would surely be the perfect addition to any Porsche racing team, and would look at home in the paddock of many of the worlds iconic circuits.