1955 Volkswagen Type 2 (Kombi) T1

VIN: 155201
Sold by Collecting Cars

This one is off market. Follow the Volkswagen Type 2 (Kombi) T1 market for new listing alerts.

LocationWest Pymble, NSW
Odometer1,100 km
TransmissionManual
SteeringRight-hand drive

Seller's Notes

This T1-generation Volkswagen Type 2 Kombi Splitscreen is a beloved and sought-after German classic, which benefits from extensive restoration work. It is now powered by a replacement naturally aspirated 2,276cc air-cooled flat-four built by Rod Penrose, which sends its power to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission with IRS. This example is an original Australian-market model – one of the first 300 examples delivered to the country – which passed compliance in December 1955 and has been with the seller for eight years. The odometer indicates 1,100 km, though this is not warranted. Build year: 1955 This T1-era Type 2 Kombi Splitscreen is finished in an appealing two-tone mint and white colour scheme, over a cream vinyl-trimmed interior, featuring a mint dashboard, and woven beige carpets. It rides on a set of -14-inch steel wheels finished in white with chrome hubcaps, fitted with Nankang tyres. Equipment includes ‘Safari’ windows, a full-length wood and metal roof rack, push-out front quarter light windows, push-out rear windows, a two-spoke steering wheel, an under-dashboard storage shelf, a Kienzle analogue clock, Smiths gauges in the original style and the original nine-seater layout with three rows of bench seats. This example has been enhanced with 12-volt electrical systems, semaphore indicators, a custom 2,276cc flat-four engine built by Rod Penrose Racing, front disc brakes, independent rear suspension, and a retro-style RetroSound stereo with Bluetooth connectivity. The seller notes that the brakes, suspension and steering systems have been renewed, and the transmission is a ‘ground-up’ rebuild from a Beetle unit. The car comes with two keys, a collection of restoration documents and receipts covering the restoration parts and labour mostly spanning 2017-2023, and the ‘Birth Certificate’ from Volkswagen. Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. Specific notes from the seller include: rust repairs and panel refurbishment or replacements were carried out as part of the restoration (as shown in the extensive documentation) by BTC Restorations in NSW, a full respray with a clear top coat was carried out, and the interior was retrimmed with new carpets, a new headlining, and the vinyl upholstery being renewed. The seller notes a very slight drip of oil from the oil pump, and that the latch to the front passenger door may require replacing as it is sometimes only able to be opened from the outside. The most recent roadworthiness test was on 31 October 2024, which is understood to have resulted in a clean pass. Maintenance was performed in 2024 by Vee-Dub Supplies, which included replacement of an oil pressure hose, replacement of the door trims, and the fitment of a new gear shifter bush. Invoices detailing these works are available in the photo gallery. The Rod Penrose Racing engine build was carried out in 2022, using a magnesium alloy ‘AS41’ case, forged 82mm crankshaft, lightweight forged flywheel, Engle W100 cam and lifter set, aluminium ‘Super Duty’ push-rods, 94x82 2276cc piston and cylinder kit, Los Panchito 94mm bore cylinder heads, EMPI oil cooler, RPR 40mm IDF carburettors, and a Magnaspark II ignition kit – at a total cost of A$16,900. The full rebuild of the VW 113 transmission was also completed in 2022, which included all new bearings and synchros, springs, seals, and bushings; plus a replacement differential housing side plate, main shaft and spider gears. This T1-generation Volkswagen Type 2 Kombi Splitscreen is an iconic and desirable German classic. Believed by the seller to be one of the first 300 examples to be delivered new to Australia, it also features an endearing colour scheme and instantly recognisable styling. Benefitting from an extensive recent restoration, including a full custom engine and transmission rebuild, it would make an impressive addition to any assembly of iconic classics, and a wonderful companion for weekend cruising and classic car show visits.

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Vehicle Specs

Specifications

Details recorded in the AutoMarkets database and verified by our market specialists.

Identity

Year1955
MakeVolkswagen
Model familyType 2
Model generation—
Model variantT1 Kombi Splitscreen 2.3L Engine
Model trim2 (T1) Kombi Splitscreen - 2.3L Engine

Mechanical

Engine2.3L
TransmissionManual
Fuel type—
Drive type—
Originality—
Odometer1,100 km
VIN155201

Body & Finish

Vehicle typeAutomobile
Body style—
Doors—
Driver sideRHD
Exterior colourMint / White
Interior colourCream

The vehicle is recorded in the AutoMarkets database under VIN 155201. The car was listed as a 1955 Volkswagen Type 2 and sold via Collecting Cars. AutoMarkets tracks verified auction results, dealerships and private sellers across Australia to provide accurate historical market data.