This 1961 Volkswagen Type 2 (T1) Westfalia SO23 ‘Subhatch’ is a beautifully restored example of the iconic split-window campervan. One of the most revered early camper conversions, the SO23 was crafted by Westfalia in the late 1950s and early 1960s, recognised for its distinctive subhatch roof, elegant birchwood cabinetry, and timeless “Splittie” silhouette. Power comes from a replacement 1.6-litre air-cooled flat-four engine, sending power to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. Originally delivered new to South Africa, this SO23 was later discovered in Zimbabwe and underwent a comprehensive bare-metal restoration by East Coast Classics in Munster, KwaZulu-Natal. The odometer shows 49,675 miles, though this is not warranted. Build year: 1961 Understood to have left the factory finished in Light Grey, it is now painted in a period-correct two-tone colour scheme of Sealing Wax Red over Beige Grey. Inside, the cabin features a cream dashboard, black vinyl front seats, and a fully trimmed camper interior with red and black tartan cloth upholstery, wood-panelled trim, and matching red curtains. A set of 15-inch cream wheels with chrome hubcaps are fitted, wrapped in Federal Super Steel 657 tyres. Equipment includes a fully functional opening subhatch roof, replica SO23 cabinetry, a folding rear table, fire extinguisher, soft finishes including cushions and curtains, and various period-correct storage compartments. Accompanying the vehicle will be its Volkswagen ‘birth certificate’ and a spare wheel. One ignition key will be supplied. Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. Specific notes from the seller include: paintwork blemishes around the lock on the engine lid. The most recent technical inspection was reportedly completed on 27 June 2024. The most recent service was reportedly completed in December 2023 at 44,694 miles. This Volkswagen Type 2 (T1) Splitscreen Campervan is an iconic German classic, which was first registered in South Africa. Later discovered in Zimbabwe, it was restored and imported to Australia. Boasting a replacement engine and an eye-catching two-tone colour scheme, it would make a charming companion for car shows, beach trips, and weekend touring. The description of this consignment is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. Potential buyers should view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy. Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible vehicles to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, either to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be undetectable even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork during its life. Furthermore, photographs may not reflect the true colour or full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to satisfy themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy. This includes by raising enquiries with the seller in the comments section. For vehicles, unless otherwise stated, potential buyers should also assume that any cherished registration may be retained by the seller. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details. This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.