It's an early representative of a model that went on to be one of the most symbolic automotive offerings ever created. It features an impressive level of scarcity, as only about 5-10 percent of its kind sported its unique, high-visibility, open-air configuration. And, perhaps just as importantly, it's configured to provide an experience behind the wheel that few of its early VW counterparts could ever come close to matching. Yes, this 1957 Volkswagen Type 2 23-Window Deluxe Samba is one very special vehicle. It greets the present in strong form, wearing a two-tone, Sealing Wax Red and Chestnut Brown color scheme that's emblematic of its era and sporting consistent body lines and panel gaps to go along with its extensive collection of clear window glass and clean chrome trim. And check out that classic-looking luggage rack on top!
The interior is in great condition and is dressed in period-correct colors. There's enough seating inside to accommodate a large group - a fine dividend of the Samba's origin as a vehicle designed to shepherd up to nine passengers on scenic excursions - and all of it is covered in tan vinyl that really shows well. The combination of no less than 23 windows and a canvas sunroof that slides open to reveal a large skylight window creates a passenger experience like no other, and the featured pop-out, safari-style front windows are fully functional. The dash area has been nicely refreshed and houses an original Blaupunkt AM radio. It will need a little attention to get back online, but creates a convincingly authentic look inside the cabin.
A collection of well-chosen mechanical upgrades equips this iconic bus with a drivability that's downright impressive for its vehicle class. Its 2110cc rear-mounted engine is fed by a quartet of EMPI single-barrel carburetors, resulting in plenty of power to negotiate everyday driving conditions, and it sits in a clean engine bay that's protected by a fire suppression system. An upgraded transaxle affords this German classic the ability to handle consistent freeway driving without worry, while a newly installed steering box makes for surprisingly precise navigation. With disc brakes at both ends, including a Wilwood kit up front, it also has confidence-instilling stopping ability. Yes, it's pretty unlikely that you've come across a VW bus that handles and drives as well as this one does.
HIGHLIGHTS
SEALING WAX RED AND CHESTNUT BROWN EXTERIOR
2110 CC ENGINE
EMPI QUAD SINGLE BARREL CARBURETORS
4-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION
FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT
UPGRADED TRANSAXEL
NEW STEERING BOX
15" PORSCHE FUCHS WHEELS
DISC BRAKES WITH WILWOOD FRONT BRAKE KIT
PERIOD CORRECT AM RADIO
Riding just a touch lower than its factory spec, which only adds to its standout curb appeal, this 1957 Volkswagen Type 2 23-Window Deluxe Samba rolls on a set of 15" Porsche Fuchs wheels wrapped with Nitto tires and must be seen in person to be fully appreciated. Call today!
