1960 VW Type 2 T1 Panel Van - Rare Twin Double Cargo Door

A rare and beautifully presented early Volkswagen Type 2 (T1) Panel Van, built on 1st August 1960 (the 1961 Model Year) in Germany and supplied new to San Antonio, Texas, USA. Crucially, this is a genuine factory M215 specification example, confirming LHD and with cargo doors on both the left and right from new and with a US market special configuration package, which included bullet type front indicators — a highly sought-after and seldom-seen configuration.

Strong provenance is supported by:

An official Volkswagen Certificate from VW’s archives also known as the “Birth Certificate”, obtained in 2022, verifying the:

- chassis no. data

- factory specification and M-Plate decoding

- detailed import documentation

- extensive restoration history

- substantial service, maintenance and parts history/ invoices

All helping provide this van with a level of history, rarely found with commercial Type 2s.

Having lived much of its life in the dry San Antonio climate, the van returned to the UK 2013, first registered in the UK in 2016 and has undergone an extensive restoration and sympathetic retro-inspired build. The result is a striking, usable and exceptionally well-finished example, that retains its early commercial character while benefiting from carefully chosen upgrades for modern driving.

Finished in an elegant two-tone colour scheme, its lowered ride height combined with polished SST Radar alloys and modern low profile tyres, give it that sought after more modern stance, whilst opening safari windows front and back, bumpers with overriders and plenty of chrome trim, add classic charm. Overall it has real presence.

Inside, the professionally retrimmed tan and white interior features a bench seat fitted front cabin, walk-through cargo area, with storage, quality flooring and a rock and roll seat/ bed, making it both practical and beautifully appointed.

In addition, along with two 12 volt outlets, the cargo area has been equipped with a multi speaker and amplifier set-up, paired with a retro look Bluetooth enabled radio in the front cabin, fitted with twin USB connector leads.

Mechanical upgrades include a Dan Simpson-built 1776cc engine with twin 40 Dellorto carburettors, 123 electronic ignition, Vintage Speed stainless exhaust, Freeway Flyer gearbox, Creative Engineering front beam, front disc brakes, Independent Rear Suspension conversion and uprated Concept Racing fuel tank.

Registered as an Historic Vehicle and exempt from road tax, MOT and ULEZ charges, this exceptional Type 2 still has a valid MOT to May 2027. With just over 8, 000 miles since restoration and engine build, plus a fresh June service, it is ready to enjoy immediately.

Backed by extensive restoration records, invoices, supporting documentation and its official Birth Certificate, this rare factory split-window double cargo-door panel van combines standout provenance, with tasteful upgrades and superb presentation. As such it represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most distinctive and desirable early commercial Type 2s currently available.

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