Vincent is one of those lucky people in the world to own the most desirable of the Type 2 range, the 23 window “sondermodell” microbus, often referred to as  the ‘Samba’  (am I jealous? You bet).

The Samba was the top-of-the-range VW van model and has a number of unique features including the deluxe trim. The nice thing about Vincent’s van is it has all the original fittings and he has owned it virtually from new!

What’s so special about a Samba?  How about all those windows and the huge opening sunroof?

Vincent is a professional tour guide and has been conducting tours in Europe for over 30 years. Back in 1961 he took a group to visit Germany  and upon arrival the group were driven around Berlin in a 23 window microbus, which was an ideal sightseeing bus. Vincent liked the van and on his arrival to Malta went to Leicester Garage (The VW importers then) to order a new one, he was disappointed they were not interested to supply one.

By coincidence the next year he returned to Germany with another tour group and was reunited with the van again but this time bought it and had the van shipped to Malta.

Vincent’s van is a left hand drive model and has a Golde opening sunroof, it has a superb Becker radio with its distinctive nickel faceplate. Unlike many vans, which lose small fittings and unwanted seats over the years, this van still has the middle bench seat, all the aluminium side and bumper trims, as well as the all important dashboard clock. Windows surrounding the rear cargo shelf  are protected by interior aluminum side rails, these were designed to stop both windows and occupants being bumped by luggage in the cargo area.   The Samba has the original 15” wheels (later vans had 14” wheels) and those single, red lens Hella rear lights. The front windows are pop-out Safari versions, cool.

Vincent is a very busy man and it is not often he gets the opportunity to bring his van to our events.  So it normally remains safely tucked away in his garage. We hope the Samba will be at our next event so you can take a closer look at it.  You will surely agree it is time well spent.

Thanks to Vincent the Samba Man

Kevin Widmann