Open to sensible offers for a quick sale due to house move
1961 RHD Volkswagen T1 Splitscreen Camper – Fully Restored Early ‘Splitty’
Verified by the Stifung Automeseum Volkswagen with date of production as 11th Jan 1961 this is an early split-screen camper that combines originality, rarity and a comprehensive restoration. This genuine German-built right-hand drive example was originally built as a 214 VW Delivery Van and exported to Australia, spending its life in a favourable dry climate before returning to the UK in 2019, where it underwent a full nut-and-bolt restoration.
Because of its Australian history, the van started from an unusually solid and original base. The body showed no evidence of previous repairs, making it an exceptionally honest foundation for restoration and conversion to the campervan you see today.
The result is a beautifully presented and highly usable 1961 Volkswagen T1, restored with care while retaining the defining character of these iconic vans.
As an early “splitty”, the van features the desirable bullet-style front indicators, more aesthetically pleasing smaller rear window and retains a three-seat full-width front bench, giving it the classic early-1960s Volkswagen driving position and interior layout.
The body restoration included a complete bare-metal respray inside and out, finished in the timeless two-tone Volkswagen colour combination of Pearl White (lower) and Pastel White (upper). The shell was treated with anti-rust primer, internally injected with rust preventer and the chassis stripped and refinished in Pearl White, ensuring the structure is as well presented underneath as it is above.
Exterior components were restored or renewed throughout. The bumpers, wheels, indicators and steering wheel were refinished in white, while all door, window and engine bay seals were replaced. The van sits on new tyres all round, with larger rear wheels and refurbished original front wheels that have been sandblasted and refinished.
Mechanically the camper has been thoroughly refreshed. The engine has been upgraded to the slightly larger capacity, featuring new 1641cc pistons and barrels, twin 34 carburettors and numerous additional new components. The gearbox has been serviced and refinished, and the van benefits from a straight axle conversion, improving cruising comfort and fuel efficiency compared with the original setup.
Further mechanical work includes:
• Adjustable suspension
• Rebuilt braking system with new master cylinder, brake lines, hoses, cylinders and shoes
• Rebuilt spindles and link pins by a specialist
• New clutch kit and starter motor
• New cables, axle bearings and seals throughout
• Upgraded Empi shock absorbers
• Deep oil sump for improved reliability
• 4-tip Monza exhaust
On the road the van drives as you would expect delivering the distinctive driving experience that defines the early Volkswagen T1.
Inside, the camper interior has been fully renewed with comfort and usability in mind. The cabin features new tan upholstery with cream piping, while the camper conversion is finished in Hacienda White cabinetry with generous storage, including an overhead cupboard and integrated wine rack. A rock and roll bed with three-point seat belts provides sleeping accommodation, and the interior has been fully insulated and trimmed with perforated cream headliner fabric.
Modern touring conveniences have been discreetly integrated, including:
• Dometic CRX50 fridge/ freezer
• Hob cooker and sink with chrome tap
• Switch panel with 2 mains sockets, 2 USB ports, 12V socket and voltmeter
• Hook-up socket with Numax charger and split-charge system
• Starter and leisure batteries
• Gas locker with new bottle and twin 10L fresh water containers
• Bluetooth radio with 6x9 rear speakers
• Six warm white LED spotlights and LED floor lighting
Additional finishing touches include chrome wing mirrors, cream sun visors and rear-view mirror, OEM chrome door handles with matching key set for all locks and ignition, custom Madmatz cab carpet, and stainless steel moon hubcaps.
Registered in the Historic Vehicle Class, the van is MOT and road tax exempt.
Early right-hand drive T1 campers with this level of restoration and originality rarely come to market. Combining desirable early features, a solid Australian history and a comprehensive rebuild, this example represents a standout opportunity for anyone seeking a fully restored split-screen camper ready to drive and enjoy.
