Lot 165

Hershey 2022

1965 Volkswagen Type 2 '21-Window' Deluxe Microbus

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$110,000 USD | Sold

United States | Hershey, Pennsylvania

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language
Chassis No.
255141625
Engine No.
AK050600
Documents
Canadian Registration
  • Highly desirable Type 2 “21-Window” Deluxe
  • Benefits from a stunning, ground-up, concours-quality restoration
  • Finished in Sealing Wax Red and White
  • Rare “walk-through” front seating
  • One of the era’s most unforgettable designs

Among the most influential automobile manufacturers of 20th century, Volkswagen transcended its origins as the builder of the German “peoples’ car” to become an international best-seller and producer of genuine cult-classic offerings. Originally conceived by Dr. Ferdinand Porsche, the Volkswagen enjoyed great loyalty and enthusiasm from its customers based on the practicality, reliability, adaptability, and affordability of its products.

As readily recognizable as the immortal Beetle sedan itself and a cult vehicle in its own right, the Volkswagen Type 2 and its derivatives enjoyed an even longer period in production than their sedan cousin. The original was conceived in the late 1940s by a Dutch Volkswagen agent, Ben Pon, who drew up plans for a van based on the Beetle floor pan and running gear.

Known as the Volkswagen Type 2 (the Beetle sedan being the Type 1), the result of Pon's efforts arrived in 1950 and almost immediately proliferated into an extensive variety of models catering to an enormous range of commercial and domestic uses. The original retained the Beetle's rear-mounted 1,200-cubic-centimeter air-cooled engine and four-speed gearbox, the latter suitably re-ratioed to cope with the van's greater weight. Engines grew in size and power while both handling and comfort improved as development progressed. By 1968, when the first major revision of this incredibly successful design occurred, almost two million had been sold worldwide.

This 1965 Deluxe “21-Window” Type 2 Microbus was recently treated to an extensive nut-and-bolt concours-quality rotisserie restoration. Beautifully presented, attention to detail and authenticity is evident in every area; from the paint, trim, and interior to the highly detailed undercarriage, this Volkswagen will please the most discriminating vintage VW connoisseur. It is finished stunningly in two-tone Sealing Wax Red and White with the bumpers and steel wheels correctly painted in White. Brightwork and trim are properly detailed and polished.

Inside, passengers will enjoy the two-tone Silver Beige and Basalt Gray fabric interior that has also been wonderfully restored, complete with three rows of factory-correct seats with seat belts. This Microbus also features the rare “walk-though” front seats option, making it easier to move about the cabin. Riding smartly on wide white wall radial tires, this iconic 1965 Type 2 is perfectly suited for club events, exhibition, or pleasure drives with the soft roof open, with room for your friends to share in the fun.