The 1969 Volkswagen Type 2 Kombi 23-Window Conversion takes the beloved German utility vehicle and elevates it to a custom luxury cruiser. Originally manufactured for the Brazilian market, this van has undergone an extensive and visually transformative refurbishment. The work was completed in 2023, meticulously converting the van to the coveted 23-window Samba specification. The finished result is a striking silver bus that perfectly blends classic design with modern modifications. This is a head-turning vehicle wherever it travels.
The Dramatic 23-Window Conversion
The highlight of the exterior is the full conversion to the iconic 23-window layout. This process involves adding skylight windows to the roof, dramatically increasing the light inside the cabin. A retractable cloth sunroof was also added, allowing for a fantastic open-air cruising experience. The body was refinished in a smooth silver paint, which extends to the front and rear bumpers. The front also features classic Safari windows, which tilt open for better ventilation.
Custom Details and Exterior Enhancements
The conversion also included several important exterior modifications. The suspension has been lowered, giving the Type 2 a distinct, aggressive stance. It rides on 15-inch Wide-5-style steel wheels, which mimic the classic look of the Porsche 356. These wheels are fitted with 175/65 Tritton radial tires. Dual side-view mirrors and blue rubber guards on the trim add to the customized look. The underside of the bus was also finished in silver during the build process.
A Custom Cabin in Blue Vinyl
The interior has been completely reupholstered, featuring blue vinyl seats accented with neat white piping. The theme carries throughout the cabin, which is fitted with a front split bench seat. Additional appointments include door map pockets and a parcel tray neatly tucked under the dashboard. A dashboard grab handle provides security for the front passenger. The overall aesthetic is clean and very inviting, though some staining is noted on the passenger-side front carpet.
Instrumentation and Seating for the Whole Crew
The rear of the bus features two rows of bench seats, providing ample room for passengers. This seating area is equipped with blue seatbelts for safety and chrome luggage guards on the rear windows. The driver interacts with a two-spoke steering wheel and retrofitted Cronomac metric instrumentation. The gauges include a 120-mph speedometer, a tachometer, and a fuel level gauge. The six-digit odometer shows a remarkably low 94 miles driven since the completion of the 2023 refurbishment.
Engine Specifications and Flat-Four Performance
The power comes from a replacement 1.6-liter flat-four engine, a traditional power plant for the Type 2. The engine has been upgraded with electronic ignition and dual downdraft carburetors, enhancing performance and reliability. Power is sent through a four-speed manual transaxle, providing an engaging driving experience. The bus is also equipped with aftermarket air cleaners. The seller reports that all electrical components were replaced during the extensive refurbishment.
Summary of a Custom-Built VW Icon
This 1969 Volkswagen Type 2 Kombi 23-Window Conversion is a beautifully executed and highly customized collector vehicle. It skillfully replicates the highly desirable Samba bus look with its retractable sunroof and numerous windows. With a rebuilt 1.6-liter flat-four and a custom blue vinyl interior, the van is mechanically fresh and visually stunning. This modified Brazilian Kombi is an exceptional choice for the collector seeking a fun, unique, and ready-to-show classic VW bus.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
