- Very collectible ‘21-window’ VW Samba
- Australian-built original right hand drive 1970 VW T2 Microbus.
Two more classic Volkswagen Type 2 Kombis will cross the block at Shannons Melbourne Spring Auction on September 21, responding to growing collector interest in VW’s most utilitarian commercial vehicles.
Once the preserve of hippies and surfies looking for cheap transport, the charismatic Kombi now enjoys a cult following around the world and ‘Split Window’ models like the Samba have become hugely collectible.
Recent auction sales have seen top prices achieved by early Type 2 VW Transporter models, with a right hand drive 1966 De Luxe ‘21-window’ Samba Microbus selling for $126,000 at Shannons 2015 Sydney Late Autumn Auction, while a right hand drive ‘23-window’ VW Samba Bus brought an unprecedented $202,000 at Shannons 2015 Melbourne Late Summer auction.
The vehicle that is expected to generate International interest on September 21 is a 1966 ‘21-Window’ Samba Wagon that was delivered new in Boston, Massachusetts as a walk-through model with six opening side windows.
The current owner, a noted Kombi enthusiast, purchased the Samba out of Japan back in February 2008 and it initially was used as a display vehicle in surf shops across the country, from Sorrento to Noosa.
After some time off the road, the owner made the decision to put the Kombi on the road and after being refurbished by renowned specialists The Kombi Shop in Noosa Heads in its original Pearl White on Velvet Green, it was first registered in Queensland in July 2012.
Because of its ’21 Window’ collectability, its attraction as a promotional vehicle and the way it drives, Shannons conservatively anticipate the Samba will sell in the $65,000-$75,000 range.
Also under the gavel is a very appealing mechanically and cosmetically upgraded 1970 VW T2 Microbus.
This factory right-hand drive ‘Kombi’ was assembled in Australia at Volkswagen’s former Clayton, Melbourne plant and was professionally restored by The Bus Stop in its current red and white paint scheme as a prize from Coca-Cola for a Crown Casino barrel draw.
The Microbus is fitted with a rebuilt 1600cc engine with twin Dellorto carburetors and Bosch electronic ignition, making it a strong and reliable road performer and a very usable classic.
Notable features include chrome bumpers, an alloy side step and Empi five-spoke mag wheels, while the interior has been decked out in matching red/white upholstery, with red carpet throughout, tinted glass all round and jail bars fitted to the rear window.
The Volkswagen has been in its current ownership for the past four years, covering minimal mileage in this time, but has been serviced regularly by marque specialists.
Because of its collectible status and daily usability, Shannons are quoting a guiding range of $26,000 to $32,000.
To register for Shannons Melbourne Spring Classic Auction on September 21, visit www.shannons.com.au and follow the current auction links.
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