1967 Volkswagen T1 Splitscreen

Highlights

Stand-out Splitty restored to very high standard
Tastefully specified with smart, unusual interior
Usefully fitted with a tuned 1776cc twin carb engine
Californian van imported to UK in noughties

The Appeal

Few vehicles have changed the face of motoring quite like the original T1 ‘Splitty.’ This simple yet stylish van started out as a camper van and then a surf bus before evolving into a proper lifestyle scene of its own.

The joy of these vans is that whatever you want to do to them, it’s ok: nobody is really fussed about originality. That has worked as a green light to customisers and modifiers who can work wonders on these classic vans.

This marvellous ’67 Splitscreen reflects that ethos. Looking at the photos it is easy to see why it is a former Best Camper in Show winner, its two tone bronze and cream colour scheme showcasing the customiser’s art. Inside there is a similarly bespoke and high quality lounge-style interior.

Now for sale by its long term owner, this is a great looking van that will enliven any trip.

The History and Paperwork

First UK registered 19th January 2006
We are told it is a California import first registered in 1967
This would make it one of the last T1s built before T2 production began
Previous a bus that has been sympathetically converted
The DVLA records a colour change from original blue/white on 24th September 2008
It seems likely that this was when it was converted following its arrival in the UK
Unfortunately at the time of writing we do not have access to the service records
New MOT provided at auction end
Previous test had advisories for track rod ends and suspension mountings

The Condition

Restored to a high standard with abundance of bespoke fittings through interior
Attractive bronze and cream colour scheme continues inside with carefully coloured trim items
Largely standard exterior except for lowering and of course those lovely chrome alloys
Five spoke chrome allots with standard hub fixings in good order
Fitted with quality Pirelli tyres showing good tread
Underside presents well with older underseal visible
Full length roof rack sets off the classic style
Useful ‘double door’ version that opens up the interior space
Great factory detailing including chrome side highlights and pop out windscreens
Some bubbling visible to common areas such as below both front doors
Chrome headlamp protectors
Some corrosion visible to offside front headlamp surround
Handful of minor stone chips and light scratches visible to bodywork
Interior is a delight with bronze trim and subtle two-tone seats in cream and latte
Wrap around rear seat a treat and helpfully fitted with seatbelts
Cabin is tastefully upgraded with auxiliary dials and unit in headlining
Attractive cream classic ‘sprung’ steering wheel
Quality colour-coordinated carpets throughout
Bespoke cabinets under seats and in front with stained wood finish in good order
Headlining in good order with no noticeable marks or scuffs
Cutlery and crockery set inset into rear of cabin seat
Matching spare chromed alloy
Chromed handbrake and shifter

This T1 was imported from California in 2006 and appears to have been restored and upgraded shortly after when there is a record of a colour change. The work has clearly been done to a very high standard by a specialist who knows their way around these vehicles – neat details abound inside and out as revealed by the photographs.

The interior in particular is a delight, its vast curving bench appropriately leaning into the relaxing and unwinding nature of these characterful vans. The trim and fittings are in good order and of a high quality.

There are some very localised indications that this is an older restoration but they do not detract from what is a very well presented classic van.

The Mechanics

Uprated 1776cc air cooled Volkswagen engine with twin carburettors
4spd manual gearbox
Unfortunately we know little of the service and maintenance history

A benefit of the very long production run for Volkswagen’s air cooled campers is that it provides a lot of scope for upgrading earlier ones. This can be tempting and rewarding because the first ones had small engines not always entirely suited to motorway motoring.

This van is fitted with a uprated 1776cc air cooled engine. It is a popular and very desirable upgrade that will significantly increase the usability – helped along by what we are told is some choice tuning.

BEFORE YOU BUY

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