YOUR CHANCE TO OWN A RARE WOLFSBURG BARN-AGED SPLIT WINDOW TRANSPORTER
WITH SAFARI ADDITIONS!
VIN/CHASSIS NUMBER: 165252
CLEAN CA TITLE IN HAND!
Offering a very early, Pressed Bumper era 1956 Volkswagen Type 2 Single Cab, manufactured
around January 1956. This truck is a non-running project that includes all major mechanical components.
Believed to be last registered in New York in 1973, per sticker on the window. Per the history of vehicle from
former owners, it was placed in a barn in the early 1970s and remained there for approximately 40 years.
It was acquired by an earlier seller through an estate auction in Virginia in 2022.
Condition & Metal Work: The vehicle has rust that goes beyond surface corrosion in some
areas. Prospective buyers should expect to perform metal work. Specifically, the engine bay area
requires repair and metal replacement. The lower valance and bumpers also show heavy wear
typical of a project this age. It is sold as-is and will need to be trailered. Seller is willing to help
coordinate with a transporter (but seller pays for shipping).
Coach Build: This Transporter features a specialized utility conversion for personnel transport,
possibly modified by a European/German coach builder (Karosseriebauer) shortly after factory
build or by a US coach modifier after shipment to the US. Key modifications include a
specifically modified bed floor, with brackets for a second seat (these were manufactured before
the double cabs came into existence) with a heater vent to warm the utility/seating area (likely
when the bed had its original tarpaulin cover), and an “ambulance step” to access the
seating/utility area.
Factory of Production: Vin/Chassis number indicates Wolfsburg Factory
Date of Production: Vin/Chassis number indicates January 1956.
Color: Original Finish: L31 Dove Blue (currently red). Dove Blue paint is clearly visible under a
later red overspray and could be salvageable for a “faded” or patina look. Dove Blue interior,
with paint in very good condition for its age.
Engine. Production Date: This engine number indicates it was manufactured around March
1956. Type: It is a 1200cc (1.2L) Single Port flat-four engine. Performance: In its original
factory configuration, it was rated at 36 HP (SAE) or 30 HP (DIN). Complete but currently
uninstalled as we removed it and now sitting in the truck bed.
Mechanicals: Retains four-speed manual transaxle, gear reduction boxes, 15” steel wheels, drum
brakes, two spoke steering wheel, steering column, speedometer, pedal assembly, shifter, and
wiring harness as well as its three fold-down gates. Has round Transaxle Hanger Tube.
Body: Areas of rust-through, corrosion, dents, and damaged body panels are present around the
body. Some rust and corrosion are present on various underbody components. Dog legs appear
in good condition.
Interior: Bench seat is included but may not be original. Cabin retains its bench seat, sun visors,
dome light, rubber floor mat, and headliner. The door cards are missing. Two-spoke steering
wheel frames a 70-mph VDO speedometer that shows 46K miles on the odometer.
Safari Conversion: The bed features a unique, professionally executed personnel carrier or
safari conversion with additions:
Recessed Footwell: A professionally, finished cutout in the bed floor over the treasure
chest, modified with mounts for additional seating (which with the seat, would allow
passengers to sit at a natural height on a rear bench). This year single cab was made prior
to integrated double-cabs and was a way to add additional seating to a single cab.
Integrated Heat Vent: Unique ducting in the treasure chest area, designed to provide
auxiliary heat to the rear passenger/utility area.
Ambulance Step: the truck includes a side-mounted step with period-correct aluminum
trim, often referred to as an “ambulance step.” Positioned near the treasure chest door, it
was likely bolted to the truck to facilitate passenger access or equipment handling.
Serious inquiries only. A perfect project for someone looking for a vintage and very rare VW
split window. Could be a daily driver, or a high-end build, either way you cant go wrong. These
early trucks are getting harder to find and only appreciate in value.
Sold As-is, needs to be trailered. Seller will help coordinate transport, buyer pays shipping.
EMAIL FOR QUICK RESPONSE..OR CRAIGSLIST CHAT.
Location: 1820 Railroad Street, Oceano, CA 93445
**WILL CONSIDER TRADE FOR A GOOD RUNNING RAGTOP, OR A 1966 OR EARLIER BUG.