1958 Volkswagen Type 2 23-Window Split-Screen Microbus

• Classic Volkswagen commercial vehicle
• Previously resident in California, USA
• UK registered since 2014
• Only one UK owner
• Professionally restored at a cost of nearly 197,000 Euros

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'.

A desirable 'split-screen' model, this beautiful 23-window version of Volkswagen's ever-popular Microbus was previously resident in California, USA and has been registered in the UK since 10th April 2014. Our vendor is the sole UK owner. The vehicle was delivered new in Kassel, Germany on 24th April 1958 finished in Seigellackrot (Sealing Wax Red) with Kastanienbraun (Maroon ) roof, and left the factory equipped with the optional sealed-beam headlights and red tail lights. It is now finished in orange/cream with cream leather seats.

Our vendor purchased the Volkswagen from Kieft en Klok in Holland in November 2012. It was restored by Kieft en Klok over the next 18 months with no expense spared at a cost of almost €197,000. Detailed supporting invoices are on file and the vehicle also comes with a Volkswagen Museum dating document; State of California Certificate of Title (issued 2004); and a current MoT.

In October 2022 at 1,567 miles a 1,600cc reconditioned exchange engine was fitted by The VW Engine Company of Keston, Kent at cost of £3296.40, bringing with it a useful increase in all-round performance. Only 2,099 miles have been covered since Kieft en Klok's restoration and only 532 since the engine was replaced.