1961 Volkswagen T1 23-Window Samba Bus
Vehicle Details
- Year: 1961
- Make: Volkswagen
- Model: T1 Samba
- VIN: 656016
- Mileage: 879
- Transmission: Manual
- Title Status: Clean
- Color: Palm Green / Sand Green
- Seller: ExoticCarSearch
- Seller Type: Dealer
- Location: Santa Clarita, CA 91387
- Dealer Fees: None
- Lot #: V-0010347
Now available for auction is this fully restored 1961 Volkswagen T1 23-Window Samba Bus finished in two-tone Palm and Sand Green over a beige leather interior. The deluxe version of VW’s iconic T1 microbus, this highly sought-after 23-window Samba underwent an extensive nut-and-bolt restoration by Silver Linings Auto Restoration from 2015-2018 at a cost of over $200k. The bus was dismantled down to the bare frame before being reassembled and fitted with a rebuilt 1776cc dual-carbureted engine, air ride suspension, upgraded Wilwood disc brakes, and a reupholstered interior. This beautifully executed Samba bus is now being offered for auction by its seller out of California.
During the restoration, this bus was completely disassembled before the body was sanded down to bare metal and refinished in the classic two-tone theme of Palm and Sand Green. All new rubber seals were installed, and the seller notes that much of the original etched Sigla glass has been retained. The frame was also removed and professionally powder-coated before being paired with the body. Detailed images are provided in the photo gallery along with images of the restoration process. This Samba bus sports the desirable 23-window configuration with additional curved glass panes in the rear corners. Some other notable features include pop-out Safari front windows, front quarter window vents, a retractable cloth sunroof, pivot-hinged side doors, and chrome 16” Fuchs wheels with Porsche center caps which are currently dressed in a set of Yokohama tires.
The cabin has been completely redone, lined with Dynamat insulation, and outfitted with new tan leather upholstery. The seats were also rebuilt with period-correct stuffing and covered in matching tan leather with dark contrasting piping. The interior maintains a factory appearance aside from the air-ride suspension controller mounted to the dashboard. The driver is supplied with a basic cabin air vent system, analog instrumentation, Wolfsburg-crest lap belts, and a vintage-style chrome cup holder storage basket. The 5-digit VDO odometer currently shows just under 900 miles, which is believed to reflect the distance traveled since the restoration.
Power comes from an air-cooled 1776cc flat-four engine which was rebuilt during the restoration and fitted with dual carburetors as well as an upgraded pulley and distributor. The rear wheels are driven through a 4-speed manual gearbox. Custom front and rear suspension were installed including Porsche lug-pattern hubs and an air ride system which offers several adjustable ride height settings to choose from. Large Wilwood disc brakes were also equipped on all four corners for improved stopping power.
Accompanied by a clean title and restoration records, this stunning 23-window Samba is ready to put a smile on the face of its next owner.
Auction Results
- Highest Bid: $157,000
- Auction End: May 18, 2021 08:00:00PM UTC
- Number of Bids: 17
Comments (22)
Other notable 23 window bus restoration auction results:
Scottsdale 2018: Goodings- $220,000 Lot#158
Scottsdale 2019: Bonhams-$190,400 Lot#65
Palm Beach 2019: Barrett Jackson-$192,500 Lot#729
@6isenough Thanks for the compliments, although I can't take the credit. It is not the owner's first bus restoration, so I think he learned to make the bus more "driveable" and raise the "fun factor", he needed to add a few personal touches while maintaining originality to the body and interior. No detail or expense was spared.
Note: 300 photos of the restoration process will be shared with the new owner. There is an additional 67 "finished" photos also.
Stunning example for sure. Good luck to buyers and sellers! This one is out of my range!
Bid in the amount of $157,000
@ExoticCarSearch Bravo on the resto and the presentation. Surely pushes all the right buttons for me. I have zero space or would be all over this.
As we come to the close of the auction, I wanted to share some of the finer details regarding the potential sale/purchase. My name is Brian . I represent private individuals buying and selling exotic cars. Your potential purchase is direct with the owner who is an exotic car enthusiast (who also has a love for VW busses).
As you can see by the photos, it was a very well documented restoration over a 3 year period and the cost was $211,217. The receipts come with the vehicle.
While the majority of the restoration was done to original factory specifications, the owner chose to make the VW more adaptable to the roads and driving of today’s vehicles. This may discourage an owner wanting an all-stock vehicle to sit in a collection.
The owner who would like to be able using the bus for what it was built for, the bigger displacement/higher horsepower VW engine will enable the bus to utilize the 4 speed “highway” tranny without getting runover by other traffic. Handling and safety is greatly increased through suspension, disc brakes and modern rubber. 3 different suspension height adjustments allow more versatility also.
This bus was meant to be driven.
Good luck bidding!
Sincerely,
Brian
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