1962 Volkswagen 23 Window Samba

The first generation of the Volkswagen Type 2 with the split windscreen, informally called the Microbus, Splitscreen or Splittie among modern fans, was produced from 8 March 1950 through the end of the 1967 model year. Among American enthusiasts, it is common to refer to the different models by the number of their windows. The basic Kombi or Bus is the 11-window with a split windshield, two front cabin door windows, six rear side windows, and one rear window. The DeLuxe model featured eight rear side windows and two rear corner windows, making it the 15-window (not available in Europe). Meanwhile, the sunroof DeLuxe with its additional eight small skylight windows is, accordingly, the 23-window. The 23- and later 21-window variants each carry the nickname 'Samba' and are the most desirable campers to collectors. A Volkswagen, Germany letter of authenticity confirms that this 23 Window is an original microbus with sunroof and was delivered new to California on the 16th March 1962. Having resided in the U.S.A for the majority of its life, this bus was purchased by a Japanese collector looking for the perfect restoration candidate. In 2004 it was imported into Japan and was the subject of a bare-metal restoration. There are pictures available in the history file that show the car throughout the various stages of the rebuild. The 1600cc engine was rebuilt and clearly no expense was spared bringing this bus back up to an impeccable standard. The original Japanese registration document shows the car as first registered over there in 2004. In fact, this 23 window has covered only 2,200 miles since the restoration was completed and was stored in a temperature controlled environment as part of a significant private collection.The paintwork is finished in Turquoise Green and white and shows very little signs of use. The interior is in lovely condition in matching Turquoise and even has the original DeLuxe dash clock and fresh air blower. The seats are immaculately trimmed and one would be cautious inviting ten grubby friends to sit in the back, as the general presentation is superb. The current owner discovered this vehicle earlier this year and subsequently brought it back to the UK. A letter from HMRC confirms that all EU taxes and duties have been paid. With 23 Window Sambas achieving record prices of well over £100,000, especially at US auctions, this restored example represents superb value for money and a blue-chip investment as Volkswagen camper vans continue to surge in popularity and value across the model range.