The Volkswagen Transporter, officially called Type 2 to distinguish it from the Beetle (Type 1), hardly needs introduction. This iconic vehicle’s basic concept was drawn in a sketchbook by the Dutch Volkswagen importer Ben Pon Sr. and could be considered a cor- nerstone of the post-WWII reconstruction era. Built in Germany from 1950 to 1967, this first-generation model with the split windscreen and an air-cooled, four-cylinder, rear-mounted boxer engine (horizon- tally opposed cylinders) has now become a true cult car. In Germany this model is known as the ‘Bulli’, in the UK as the ‘Split-screen’, in the US as ‘Microbus’ and in The Netherlands as the ‘Spijlbus’.
The pickup version was introduced in 1952. A double-cabin variant followed in 1959. The pickup range also included versions with a wider loading platform and wooden sideboards. Both the versatility of the Transporter and its large model range – with no less than four versions of the pickup alone – contributed to its huge success.
This specific Volkswagen Transporter pickup came from Italy and was restored in 2010. It is one of the last models of the first genera- tion. By 1967, when it was replaced, 1.8 million examples had been built. Transporter pickups are very hard to find nowadays.
Engine
1.5 litre air-cooled four-cylinder boxer power output
44hp
Load capacity
1,000kg
Special details
Restored