1967 Volkswagen Samba Split-Screen T1 21-Window Camper

• Rare Samba model, especially in right-hand drive, the grail of spilt-screens
• Much expenditure to make more driveable, comfortable and just plain cool
• Large history file with dozens of receipts for maintenance and restoration
• Powerful 2.0-litre engine and a cosmetic restoration in 2016
• Original Devon Camper interior

The Volkswagen Type 2 was introduced in 1950 as a multi-variant utility vehicle, known as the Transporter, Kombi or Microbus (depending on body type). It was devised as an evolution of the Volkswagen Type 1, the original Beetle. The first generation of these versatile vehicles (named the T1) were produced with distinctive split-screens (‘splitties’) from 1950 until 1967.

Only two models were originally offered, the Kombi and the Commercial. The Microbus was added in May 1950, joined by the Deluxe Microbus in June 1951.

The Deluxe Microbus (known as the ‘Sunroof Deluxe’ in America) was the most luxurious version of the Volkswagen Transporter T1. The Deluxe model featured eight rear side windows and two rear corner windows, making it the 15-window (not available in Europe). Meanwhile, the European-market Deluxe Microbus, with its additional eight small skylight windows is, accordingly, the 23-window. From the 1964 model year with its wider rear door, the rear corner windows were discontinued, making the latter two, the 13-window and 21-window respectively. The 23 and later 21 window variants each carry the famous nickname 'Samba' and are especially revered.

Instead of a sliding door at the side, the Samba had two pivot doors and a fabric sunroof and were mostly painted in two colours, usually with the upper part coloured white and the two-coloured sections being separated by a decorative strip. Sambas also have a more comprehensive dashboard than the normal T1 and are fitted with a so-called "hat" over the front split-screen which acts as a sun-visor for the driver.

When Volkswagen started producing the successor to the T1 (the T2) the company also stopped producing the Samba, so sadly no Sambas were available in later versions of the Volkswagen Transporter, making these early and rare models very sought-after and collectable.

Presented here is a 1967 VW Microbus Deluxe 21-window ‘Samba'. This bus was manufactured in right-hand drive, making it particularly rare, in the last year before the end of true T1 manufacture.

This remarkable example of Volkswagen's coveted Samba was manufactured at the Wolfsburg factory and was delivered to its first registered owner in the UK on 1st August 1967. It’s previous owner, prior to Jay, purchased it in 2005, shortly after it had been renovated. We are informed that he had been looking for the perfect split-screen camping experience and, whilst searching for just such a bus, he stumbled across this Samba which immediately drew his attention as it was a UK-registered, right-hand drive, 21-window model with its original Devon Camper interior, an extremely rare and special vehicle which would be fantastic for family camping trips.

At this time, it was found to have a Porsche 912 engine installed with such upgrades as stiffer/lowered suspension and disc brakes which vastly improved its handling and stopping capabilities. Other than these ‘nods to modernity’, the Samba was unspoilt and had retained its original paint and bodyshell which was in good condition. Upon sale, the previous owner removed the Porsche engine and refitted the original engine, however, after taking the vehicle back home to London, it was decided that a 2-litre flat-four unit would be installed in place of the original engine to give a bit more power and usability to keep up with modern-day traffic.

It has proved a very reliable and able companion, having been consistently serviced by Jacks Garage in Notting Hill from where many receipts can be shown for work carried out. In 2016, it underwent a full bare-metal restoration ensuring it was returned to pristine condition and that the paintwork was as good as the mechanicals. Anyone who has restored one of these vehicles knows this is no minor process with much expense required. To ensure excellent drivability, it was decided that a few upgrades would be welcome and these included all new electrics, a replacement roof and power-steering which has vastly improved the driving experience of this 51-year-old bus.

The full specification includes enhanced suspension and brakes, a new 2.0-litre, flat-four engine with ‘BugPack’ performance parts and filters, ‘Geneberg’ short gear changer and an oil temperature gauge. Lifestyle additions include iPod connection, a leisure battery, a modern heating module, a full original Devon Camper interior with retractable roof, interior lights, and worktop/table with ample storage. All the above ensures this classic bus is usable in modern traffic and still looks the part at festivals, camping and weekend trips.

This genuine Samba is the perfect balance between 60s camper-van cool, VW enthusiast credibility and real-life modern drivability. It’s fast enough but not too loud, long-legged and easy to drive, comfortable with good ride quality, and is just waiting for its next trip!