 |
| Volkswagen Samba 21 Window Microbus 1966 |
The Volkswagen Type 2 was introduced in 1950 as a multi-variant utility vehicle, known as the Transporter, Kombi or Microbus (depending on body type). It was devised as an evolution of the Volkswagen Type 1, the original Beetle. The first generation of these versatile vehicles (named the T1) were produced with distinctive split-screens (‘splitties') from 1950 until 1967.
Only two models were originally offered, the Kombi and the Commercial. The Microbus was added in May 1950, joined by the Deluxe Microbus in June 1951.
 |
| Volkswagen Samba 21 Window Microbus 1966 |
The Deluxe Microbus (known as the ‘Sunroof Deluxe' in America) was the most luxurious version of the Volkswagen Transporter T1. The Deluxe model featured eight rear side windows and two rear corner windows, making it the 15-window (not available in Europe). Meanwhile, the European-market Deluxe Microbus, with its additional eight small skylight windows is, accordingly, the 23-window. From the 1964 model year with its wider rear door, the rear corner windows were discontinued, making the latter two, the 13-window and 21-window respectively. The 23 and later 21 window variants each carry the famous nickname 'Samba' and are especially revered.
 |
| Volkswagen Samba 21 Window Microbus 1966 |
Instead of a sliding door at the side, the Samba had two pivot doors and a fabric sunroof and were mostly painted in two colours, usually with the upper part coloured white and the two coloured sections being separated by a decorative strip. Sambas also have a more comprehensive dashboard than the normal T1, and are fitted with a so-called "hat" over the front split-screen which acts as a sun-visor for the driver.
When Volkswagen started producing the successor to the T1 (the T2) the company also stopped producing the Samba, so sadly no Sambas were available in later versions of the Volkswagen Transporter - making these early and rare models very sought-after and collectable.
Niciun comentariu:
Trimiteți un comentariu