Volkswagen Type 2 T1 Samba 21-window Deluxe, 1966 Restoration

The Volkswagen Type 2 T1 was introduced in 1950 as Volkswagen’s first dedicated commercial vehicle. Ben Pon, the Dutch Volkswagen importer, is widely regarded as the originator of the Volkswagen T1 bus. During a visit to the Volkswagen factory in 1947, he sketched the idea for a compact and practical van based on Beetle engineering. His simple pencil drawing directly inspired the development of the Type 2, which entered production in 1950 and went on to become one of Volkswagen’s most recognisable models of the twentieth century. The earliest versions were straightforward and functional, designed to transport goods and passengers efficiently. Early versions were simple and utilitarian, designed to transport goods and people efficiently.

In 1951 Volkswagen added the Deluxe Microbus, later known as the Samba, as the top‑of‑the‑range passenger model. The Samba featured a large folding fabric sunroof and distinctive skylight windows set into the roofline. The earliest Deluxe models had 23 windows, including two small rear corner windows. These 23‑window Sambas were produced until 1963 and are now regarded as the earliest and most recognisable versions. In 1964 Volkswagen revised the rear bodywork, removing the corner windows and creating the 21‑window Samba. The 21‑window model retained the panoramic character of the original design while simplifying production. Both versions were intended for comfortable touring and offered a more refined interior than the standard Microbus. The Samba was marketed in the United States as the Sunroof Deluxe, emphasising its leisure‑oriented character. Production of the T1 continued in Germany until 1967, after which the T2 replaced it. Despite this, the T1 remained in production in Brazil for many more years. Over time the Samba became one of the most sought‑after variants of the Type 2. Its combination of characteristic styling and limited production numbers contributed to its desirability. In total around 100.000 Samba Deluxe Microbuses were built (all versions combined). Today, the Samba Deluxe Microbus is regarded as an important part of Volkswagen’s early history.