For Sale at Auction: 1961 Volkswagen Bus in Newport, Rhode Island

Chassis No. 761891

The Volkswagen Type 2, in its original T1 "split-screen" configuration, was offered in an impressive array of variants, ranging from the utilitarian panel van, devoid of rear seating and side windows, to the more refined Samba De Luxe, boasting a full-length headliner, accommodation for nine occupants, and an elegant two-tone paint scheme. Despite their outward differences, all iterations shared a common DNA with the Type 1 Beetle, including the reliable air-cooled and rear-mounted flat-four engine. By the time T1 production ceased in Germany in 1967, nearly two million units had been sold worldwide, and today remain highly prized for their mechanical simplicity, popularity in American counterculture, and general 1960s charm.

The example offered here is a 1961 Volkswagen De Luxe Samba Micro Bus featuring the top-of-the-line 23-window format that provides nearly unobstructed views from any of the bus's nine seats. Its included Volkswagen Zertifikat reveals that this example was finished new in Sealing Wax Red, complemented by a Beige Grey sliding ragtop roof over a Silver Beige interior-a combination it retains today. Built 12 April 1961, this example was delivered new in Portland, in the United States.

Previous research indicates that in 2012, this example benefitted from an extensive restoration by St. Martha's Garage to its original specification, with a handful of restoration photos on file. Most noticeably, it was given a fresh coat of its vibrant Sealing Wax Red. The interior was imparted the same level of treatment, with a complete reupholstering in Beige Grey complete with new wool headliner and German square weave carpets. During the restoration, the Samba was also fitted with a larger 1,600 cc flat-four engine, and its four-speed manual transmission was rebuilt by Rancho Transmissions with 3:44 gear ratios for enhanced highway cruising. Its steering rack was also reportedly rebuilt by Volkswagen specialists Wolfgang International in Redding, California.

Upon completion of this transformative restoration, the Samba remained in California through two subsequent owners until 2018, when it was acquired by the seller and transported to Maine. This 1961 Volkswagen De Luxe "23-window" Samba Micro Bus is now offered with just 1,500 miles since its rotisserie restoration and furnished with its Volkswagen Certificate of Authenticity, restoration photos, and an invoice for a service performed in 2019.

Beautifully restored in its original current vibrant color scheme and representing the range-topping expression of Volkswagen's beloved Micro Bus, this example is well-positioned to delight at prestigious European car gatherings, or to embark upon leisurely adventures where its driver and up to eight friends can enjoy the view.