UPDATE: The seller has dropped their asking price here on eBay by $10,000 dollars!
FROM 1/3/19: When these desirable 21-window VW Buses pop up, they rarely come from long-term ownership, just needing a quick mechanical refresh. However, this example is exactly that, having been with the same owner since 1983 but in need of some updates to address engine knock and a missing canvas roof. The high state of preservation and awesome foundation to start from should all but guarantee a high sale price. Find the VW here on eBay with a $68,500 Buy-It-Now.
The gradual fading of the paint is almost beautiful in its state of decline, and the seller is correct that this Bus should simply be mechanically restored with the cosmetics left alone. No information is offered on the status of the roof, which I assume to be missing. What’s not missing, however, is the glass in each of those 21 windows, and the seller claims each opening retains OEM pieces. Oddly, the weathering on the roof was not caused by total outdoor exposure as the VW was stored under a carport.
The seller recommends restoring the interior, which I would allow given these Sambas really tend to pop when the gruff exterior finish is paired with a period-correct and completely fresh cabin. Plus, if you’re not beholden to originality, it could be an opportunity to swap in some components from a pop-top, like a small cooking stove and camp sink if desired. But really, if you want to maximize value, this 21-window Bus should be put back to factory-correct configuration inside.
The missing interior is a curiosity, and I’ve chatted with enough air-cooled fanatics to know that the rear bench seat is a hot commodity. The seller doesn’t explain what happened to the interior, but it’s clear to see rust is minimal and the floors are largely solid. With its high state of preservation and desirable 21-window configuration, there’s little doubt this example will see the asking price (or very close to it), especially considering that minimal sorting will push the value higher in a hurry.
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