Original Paint Panel Van: 1958 Volkswagen Bus

When it comes to Type 2 Volkswagens, it’s hard to go wrong with any pre-Bay Window model. From campers to panel vans to pickups, the early VW Buses are sure-fire bets either for justifying the cost to restore or flipping for a profit if you find one cheap enough. The best part is they can be used as differently as they’re configured, with Westfalias the obvious choice for camping and the pickup a good fit for hauling; panel vans like this one will simply swallow all your gear regardless of whether you intend to camp under the stars or start a contracting business. This 1958 panel van model listed here on eBay wears its original paint and is offered with no reserve.

Collectors already fawn over survivor Type 2s, but when you throw in the original paint, it’s game over. The faded name of the business that previously used this Bus for work duties is just icing on the cake, and God willing, the next owner won’t touch as thing as it relates to the exterior. The seller notes this Bus remains highly original throughout, with no evidence that it ever left the dry confines of Texas and Oklahoma. It was reportedly only on the road until 1966, before being retired for unknown reasons. Given the engine is missing but the original transmission remains in place, it makes you wonder if it was taken off the road for an engine swap that never commenced.

The cargo bay remains outfitted for work, with shelving lining the walls. Just think about what a display truck this could be. If you have anyone who hits the flea market, farmer’s market, or craft show scenes, this Bus could be a home run both as a draw into your tent and a handy tax write-off. The seller reports that the rust-free condition extends to the typically troublesome drip rails, which remain rust free. The same goes for the overall structure and main floors, with no rot-through reported. Further evidence of the robustness of the structure is how the doors open and close, which the seller indicates confirms no issue with panel alignment.

Though there’s surface rust in places, this is hardly a big deal. When a Type 2 is rusty, it’s immediately evident, and this panel van shows no evidence of those typical hot spots for corrosion. While the multi-window passenger buses are the most valuable, a panel van with original paint and patina’d lettering will always draw a crowd, especially one as original as this. I’d be sorely tempted to leave everything as-is and simply build a mildly modified engine to give it some extra grunt when needed, and perhaps lower it a bit on steel wheels. How would you outfit this rare, survivor panel van?