Highlights

Stunning Samba in superb condition
Specification verified by Volkswagen heritage certificate
Restored to a very high standard with little use since
Very rare opportunity to acquire one of the best Sambas available

The Appeal

The Type 2 cleverly evolved the Beetle template with a thoroughly modern ‘cab over’ design that provide extremely versatile. One of the most popular variants to exploit this was the ‘Samba’.

Conceived as a small, luxury bus, the Samba was available from 1951. Supplied with a built in sun visor over the front split windscreen and finished in a range of two-tone colours, it was also available with option of a full length folding sunroof. From 1955 the Type 2 was lightly updated with revised side and rear doors to improve usability.

This gorgeous Samba is one of those later ‘T1b’ models finished to an exceptionally high standard in black over red. The quality continues inside with its ‘latte’ two-tone interior. Characterful, beautifully and carefully restored to original specification, this is arguably one of the best Sambas to come to market in recent times. This is a good thing, because the 23-Window Samba is the rarest, and most desirable variant of the Kombi family.

The History and Paperwork

First UK 1st March 2016
Current owner since 14th November 2016
Heritage Certificate by Volkswagen shows that it was built on 30th March 1955
It was then sold to a customer in Sweden where it appears to have spent its life until 2016
History file includes early typed documents and Swedish registration materials
Old MOTs from time in UK
Old VIN records and registration documents included
MOT expired on 25th February 2017 and has covered less than 300kms since

The Condition

Superb condition and finished in two-tone Samba internal and external colour scheme
Highly original and well detailed, reflecting the quality of the restoration work
Paintwork finished to a high standard with no visible marks or chips
Bodywork presents well with no noticeable corrosion
Factory correct domed hub caps with red Volkswagen lettering
Delightful details like the small rear lights, domed headlights and full length chrome swage line
Two tone ‘latte; interior in superb condition and finished to a very high standard
Three rows of seats with correct factory folding seats to allow access to rear row
Chrome-trimmed luggage area offering protection to side windows and occupants
Rubber floor mats
Singel VDO dial with clear decals and undamaged face
Two-spoke Bakelite cream steering wheel
Full length folding Webasto-style sunroof a factory option

The Samba was conceived as a highly functional vehicle yet there is nothing remotely functional about the exquisite design of this 1955 model. A masterclass in design restraint ensures that what details there are, such as the rear vents, small rear lights and full length chrome swage line, serve to enhance rather than overshadow the style.

Subtly finished in black over red, the two tone theme continuing in the contrasting light beige interior, this Samba is in superb condition. It has been barely used in recent years since being imported from Sweden. It offers the buyer a museum-quality vehicle that works as well as a static object d’art as a classic show stopper.

The Mechanics

1,192cc air cooled Volkswagen engine
4spd manual gearbox

The Heritage Certificate supplied with this van indicates that it is a matching numbers vehicle. Unfortunately we don’t have access to the service or maintenance records for the van. However it has been barely used in recent years – covering less than 300kms since 2016 – and its condition suggest that it has been carefully dry stored during this time.

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.

✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.