1963 Volkswagen Vans

To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys The Monterey Auction event, 13 - 15 August 2026.
Offered Without Reserve $30,000 - $60,000 USD

• Charming example of the split-window Type 2
• Finished in an attractive tri-tone color combination
• Powered by a 1.6-liter type 126 flat-four backed by a four-speed manual
• Refinished by a prior owner in 2013 to its current state of presentation
• Accompanied by copy of Volkswagen Certificate

In April 1947, not long after the first Type 1 Beetles arrived in his home country, Dutch-market Volkswagen importer Ben Pon suggested a basic utility van to the automakers engineers. The Germans liked the idea. As soon as they could, they built a prototype that shared much of its running gear, though not its chassis, with the Type 1. Initially conceived as a utilitarian delivery van well-suited to tight European streets thanks to narrow dimensions and a short turning circle, it debuted for the 1950 model year. A passenger version was offered shortly thereafter, and a truck joined the model lineup in 1952.

So successful was the Type 2 that Volkswagen in 1956 built a dedicated Transporter production facility in Hanover, Germany. Assembly in Hanover continued into 1967 for European and North American markets. The Type 2 continuously evolved with various body and powertrain upgrades that made it more functional. The first-generation Type 2, with the iconic split-windshield, was produced from 1950 through 1967.

This 1963 Volkswagen Type 2 Delivery Van was completed on 10 April 1963. It left the factory finished in Dove Blue (L31) over a Grey leatherette (80) interior, powered by a 1.5-liter flat-four-cylinder engine backed by a four-speed manual gearbox. It was originally built as a panel van, model 211, with solid right-side cargo doors. Upon completion it was shipped to the United States and delivered to Chicago on 17 April 1963.

Today, this charming Volkswagen Delivery Van is finished in a striking tri-tone combination of white, orange, and gray. Refurbished by a previous owner in 2013, the van underwent a complete body strip and refinish, complemented by freshly painted white bumpers. It rides on 15-inch EMPI-style wheels wrapped in staggered tires (slightly larger in the rear), with braking upgraded via Wilwood front discs and classic rear drums. A Wagenswest four-inch narrowed front beam was installed, allowing for the different wheel sizes and the front disc brake conversion. A straight rear swing-axle conversion tastefully lowers the van while providing easier maintenance and improved gearing for modern highway speeds.

Mechanical and electrical updates include a replacement 1.6-liter flat-four engine backed by a four-speed manual gearbox, alongside a 12-volt electrical system upgrade. Inside, the red vinyl interior features a split front bench, a folding rear bench, and matching door panels; its side cargo doors, which would have originally been solid, now have windows for improved usability. Modern comforts include a RetroSound Bluetooth stereo, as well as tasteful wood flooring in the rear cabin.

Primarily used for commercial purposes in period, presentable, surviving Type 2 Delivery Vans are a rare occurrence today. This example, having been stylishly refinished and tastefully upgraded, perfectly balances classic vintage charm with modern convenience.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/auctions/mo26/.