1964model VW-Type2 T1

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1964model

VW-Type2 T1

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A fully restored T1 makes its debut...! The mint blue and white body shines brightly, and the seats adorned with white piping on light brown evoke soul-stirring sensations...! I've always wanted to ride in such an early model microbus Type 2...! The excitement never stops with this top-notch '64 VW-Type 2 T1, Kleinbus 11-window...!

↑↑↑Please watch the above archived video with audio if available.

Indeed, it's highly unlikely for anyone to remain without a smile when faced with this specimen...!

With the owner’s wonderful sensibility, a 1964 VW-Type 2 T1 Microbus underwent a full restoration four years ago, featuring a mint blue and white two-tone exterior. As it emerged from the garage accompanied by the lively sound of its flat-four engine, it instantly transformed the mild air of the thawing spring into a refreshing atmosphere, exuding a very happy aura.

The owner had always intended to ride in a “fully restored Type 2 T1” from the beginning. They entrusted a certain specialty shop with the “realization of their dream,” starting from the search for a suitable restoration base vehicle several years ago.

Then…

After over a year from the order, through a full restoration period, the exterior was beautifully finished in mint blue and white, while the interior featured seats with light brown upholstery and ivory piping. The AD-type 1580cc engine was meticulously tuned, and further refinements were made to the drive train and suspension through overhauling, leaving no detail untouched. The 1964 VW-Type 2 T1 Microbus, with its serial number “1232481” indicating its production in early 1964, emerged from the owner’s immaculately sealed garage alongside their splendid collection. Despite being over 60 years old, its dignified posture radiated charm and functionality as the original transporter, without a hint of its age, spreading the adorable yet excellent design charm filled with functionality to the surroundings.

In the days following the interview, the author found themselves reminiscing repeatedly, thinking, “What a fantastic vehicle it was…!” This time, I’ll fully convey the charm of this incredibly lovely “fully restored 1964 VW-Type 2 T1 Microbus 11-window”!

From the birth of the T1 in 1950 to the current T7... the secret story behind the birth of the world's first masterpiece that has continued for over 70 years, the "original transporter," the VW Type 2...

Starting from the debut of the T1 in 1950 and continuing to the current T7… Volkswagen’s “original transporter,” which has been running steadily for over 70 years, has been transporting people and materials from all over the world since its birth. Today, it has transformed into the one and only transporter, carrying the dreams of enthusiasts worldwide, and has changed its value as a charming classic car. The first-generation T1 has evolved into a unique transporter that carries the dreams of enthusiasts worldwide.

As widely known, after the end of World War II, Volkswagen played a significant role in the economic recovery of post-war Germany through mass production of the Type 1 Beetle at the Wolfsburg factory.

At that time, within the Wolfsburg factory, in order to increase production efficiency, they used makeshift “powered platform trucks” using the chassis and engine of the Beetle to move parts around. It was during a visit to this production facility that the late Ben Pon, a Volkswagen dealer in the Netherlands, conceived the idea of creating a transporter capable of carrying cargo by mounting a box-shaped body on these powered platform trucks. He sketched out the rough idea on the spot and proposed it to Volkswagen.

https://ja.escuderia.com/有名なフォルクスワーゲン-t1-になった落書き/

Surprisingly, this rough sketch, which is still preserved today, became the T1 itself. Based on this brilliant idea, Volkswagen quickly developed a prototype, and in 1950, began production of the Type 2 Transporter.

The early Type 2, using parts from the Type 1 (Beetle) such as the engine and transmission, had a wheelbase of 2400mm, almost the same as the Type 1, and was given a strengthened chassis specifically for carrying cargo, giving birth to a very robust transporter capable of carrying up to 700kg of cargo.

At that time, before the birth of the T1 transporter, there was no such type of vehicle. The box-shaped design, which was a very innovative idea, was embraced by the market as revolutionary due to its unparalleled cargo space efficiency and versatility. Volkswagen’s innovation, with its technology and quality, combined with its affordability, quickly became a huge hit not only in Germany but throughout Europe.

The box-shaped body with the same round headlights as the Type 1, along with its charming front face and style, created usability that truly embodies “Love & Peace.” In the 1970s, it became an icon of hippie culture in America, and since the 2000s, it has further evolved into an icon of the California look culture on the West Coast of the United States. Its design, full of freedom that may never be born again due to safety constraints, and its adorable looks have captured the souls of enthusiasts worldwide, making it an irresistible presence.

I want to restore it and leave it for future generations..." A pure enthusiast owner felt the significance and embarked on a full restoration of a 1964 VW-Type2 T1 Microbus 11 Window.

The owner, who is incredibly fashionable and a true gentleman, had a story to tell. At the age of 18, he saw a Lamborghini Miura by chance at Ebina Parking Area and was captivated by it. Since then, he has been passionate about cars, particularly rare models, including domestic cars, which are now considered classics, and European cars, especially high-end and rare models from Germany. Despite owning different models, he remained a pure enthusiast who fulfilled his dreams of youth.

Believing that the value of a car lies in driving it, the owner, who is well-versed in the allure of high-end models, finds the deep charm in classic cars. He regards them as cultural heritage, feeling a noble cause in restoring them to preserve for future generations.

Chosen for such a restoration project was the 1964 VW-Type2 T1 model. The restoration process began with finding a suitable base from a specialized shop. Approximately four years ago, in December of Heisei 1 (1989), the full restoration was completed, followed by ongoing maintenance, leading to its current condition.

The restoration included:

– Stripping the body, correcting rust, and repainting in Mint Blue & White two-tone.

– Repainting the interior body parts.

– Reupholstering all seats in Light Brown with Beige piping.

– Installing a hanging cooler and a FF heater from Bebastro.

Furthermore, in April 2023, the following adjustments and overhauls were carried out on the engine and drivetrain:

– Carburetor overhaul and adjustment.

– Distributor ignition timing adjustment.

– Spark plug replacement.

– Air cleaner cleaning.

– Removal and cleaning of the muffler, followed by rust-proof painting.

– Overhaul of front and rear brake wheel cylinders and brake line replacement.

– Replacement of rear torsion bar grommets.

– Replacement of front and rear shock absorbers.

– Replacement of hub grease caps and axle boots.

– Adjustment of front and rear ride height.

– Removal and overhaul of the steering gearbox.

– Replacement of wheels with 15-inch ones and replacement of all four tires.

– Battery replacement and installation of a cutoff switch.

– Headlight replacement.

– Steering wheel and horn motif replacement.

Currently, to achieve an original look, the owner has replaced the wheels with 15-inch ones, but the original 14-inch wheels, along with low-height tires, will be provided as seen in the 50th photo at the end. These additional tires are intended for wheel protection due to their old manufacturing date.

During the interview, the underside was thoroughly examined, revealing no signs of rust or corrosion, as the body had been meticulously finished. The freshly installed brake lines and overhauled steering mechanism, along with refreshed front and rear dampers and bushes, suggest that there are no common functional issues. While the repainted body is flawless and stunning, there is a small paint chip under the left door, as shown in the attached photo.

Though it might sound like something a German would say, there is a slight oil seepage, typical of flat-four engines.

"Please be sure to watch the opening video! The fully restored 1964 VW Type 2 T1 11-Window with its adorable looks is absolutely lovely... We actually took it for a spin!

“First of all… Naturally, this precious fully restored specimen does not come with studded tires… From November to late April when the spring rain washes away the snow, it’s a vehicle that receives maintenance only within a completely sealed garage… Nonetheless, for the purpose of verifying its running condition during the interview and with the owner’s consent, we took it for a spin on a dry road cleared of melting snow!

Let’s hop in and start the engine right away… As mentioned earlier, the AD-type 1580cc engine, awakening instantly from a cold start, is perfectly timed… Enjoying its smooth sound at idle, it’s a delight… With its four-point support system, just observing it is enjoyable, and we’ll resist the urge to open the safari windows and instead seat ourselves in the beautifully reupholstered navigator seat with light brown and ivory piping, camera in hand for filming…

Developed by utilizing parts from the VW Type 1 Beetle, the Type 2 with the same wheelbase of 2400mm as the Type 1… despite not feeling so due to its boxy design, boasts dimensions almost identical to the Type 1… Experiencing the ride quality reminiscent of those good old days in the present was truly moving! Though it may not match modern cars, it offers a driving experience full of character… Torsion springs produce a gentle bounce, and the cabin’s ride quality is surprisingly good, perfect for up to 8 passengers… It truly embodies the charm of a microbus for a fun outing with a crowd!

It’s a car with a uniquely enjoyable steering feel… Naturally, being a transporter from a time without power steering, but the steering feels just right with a moderate weight to it… With the steering mechanism placed above the overhang, assuming a strange driving position reminiscent of a truck driver, holding the large steering wheel almost horizontally brings a unique charm, and the steering with its moderate weight provides a lively and precise feel, instantly captivating anyone who rides in it!

But the allure of this fully restored specimen doesn’t end there… To fully enjoy it even in today’s traffic conditions, the owner implemented “a hanging cooler installation” and “installation of a Bevasto FF heater”… In the engine compartment sits a brand new compressor, creating a different atmosphere with the added pulleys and V-belts, allowing you to enjoy this charming outlook all year round!

Despite undergoing ample full restoration and overhauls, it’s still a vehicle over 60 years old… There are probably many areas to be touched up while driving it in the future (which is part of the fun), but this Type 2 T1 Microbus will continue to enhance its charm by expressing the owner’s personality and worldview over the years of riding it, and that’s the most appealing aspect…!

What makes it thoroughly ‘enjoyable’ is the fact that the Type 2 itself has a very simple structure… Whether in its home country Germany or in the United States, where there are many enthusiastic enthusiasts from the past boom, the supply of parts is abundant and inexpensive, offering endless joy of garage life as a Sunday mechanic, isn’t it an ‘endless dream’ waiting to be fulfilled…?

European specialist store “Heritage Parts Center” https://www.heritagepartscentre.com/eu/volkswagen/type-2-bay.html

Domestic specialist parts shop “Flower Parts” https://www.i-love-wagen.net

Opening the swing doors, folding the second-row seats forward to the third row, accommodating three people, this 60-year-old practical transporter, the VW Type 2 T1 Microbus, can seat a total of eight people…! Seeing such a vehicle, I couldn’t help but feel that there are truly deep and enjoyable experiences waiting, like realizing an enthusiast life involving the entire family, which was never possible with a sports car… A heartfelt thought from the author who beheld this specimen.”

Afterword of the 1964 VW-Type2 T1 Microbus 11-Window Interview

The author coincidentally possesses an experience of long ownership of a 1964 VW Type 1 Beetle in the United States, knowing that as long as there’s oil in it… in the extreme cold of winter or under the scorching sun of summer, the dry sound of that air-cooled flat-four engine never falters, enduring as long as human stamina allows. Entrusting it to intellectual curiosity and pressing on the accelerator, it’s a tough companion that will take you anywhere—wherever you want to go. The absolute trust in its reliability still firmly resides in the depths of the heart…

Hence, upon inspecting this fully restored 1964 Type 2 Microbus, one can easily discern the restoration, overhaul, and meticulous maintenance of the engine compartment, the vigorous performance of the carburetor, and the readiness of the engine to spring to life instantly with a twist of the key, emitting the flat-four sound smoothly and vigorously even from a cold start. This experience once again deeply impresses, reaffirming that it is a companion that will take you anywhere you want to go. This interview was an opportunity where dreams expanded greatly once again.

Fully restored...! The body gleaming in mint blue and white shines brightly, and the brand-new seats with light brown and white piping make the soul tremble...! I've always wanted to ride in a Type 2 early Microbus like this...! The excitement for the superb 1964 VW-Type2 T1 Kleinbus 11-Window knows no bounds...!

Even days after the interview, recalling it still fills me with excitement. It was truly a wonderful vehicle…!

I couldn’t help but think that if I were to share my life with such a wonderful vehicle, surely my lifestyle would brighten and become more enjoyable…!

“We want to restore it and leave it for future generations… We hope it will be enjoyed by someone who will cherish it dearly and ride it with joy… We invite you to a wonderful tour where you can experience the feelings of such owners… Please come visit us in Nagano Prefecture…” Please come visit us in Nagano Prefecture for a delightful tour…!

This extremely splendid "Fully Restored 1964 VW-Type2 T1 Microbus 11-Window" is currently located in Chino City, Nagano Prefecture.

As this is a private transaction, there are no consumption taxes or additional fees. However, the prorated payment of automobile tax and the recycling deposit will be the responsibility of the purchaser. Additionally, transportation arrangements, such as land transport, are also the responsibility of the purchaser. However, the author’s company also offers classic car transport services with their own carrier if desired. Please feel free to consult with us if you have any preferences in this regard.

[Regarding Inquiries…]

The vehicle listed on this page is featured on the cross-border EC site for classic and collectible cars, “Estate Sale Supremacy®.”

What is “Supremacy” in Estate Sales?

“Estate Sale Supremacy®” introduces vehicles cherished by their owners through interviews, written articles, and videos. It is the Japanese version of the North American cultural estate sale, which aims to organize both material possessions and emotions. Unlike the cheap buying and selling that leaves nothing behind for culture or future generations, “Estate Sale Supremacy®” faithfully expresses the owner’s sentiments and ensures a smooth transition to the next generation while preserving memories firmly in the heart.

We conduct detailed interviews with the current owner, including past maintenance records and repair history. We also verify the absence of any accidents. In cases where there is a significant accident history or where the current owner’s ownership history is extremely brief and unclear, we may decline the interview and take measures to provide reassurance to potential buyers to the best of our ability.

The content of this article is based on a three-hour interview conducted on March 8, 2024, under overcast skies, reflecting the author’s experience during the limited time available. Please note that it may not accurately describe the current condition of the vehicle at 100%, and not all information presented is verified. Comments on the condition are based on the weather and circumstances at the time of the interview, as well as the author’s subjective assessment.

For questions about the listed vehicle or to arrange an on-site inspection, please contact us at the bottom of this page. Since this is a private transaction, to prevent frivolous inquiries, on-site inspections will only be arranged for customers who are considering purchasing the vehicle.

We appreciate your consideration.