1957 Walk Though VW Bus w/ Porsche 2.0 liter engine

Make: Volkswagen
Model: Bus/Vanagon
Type: Minivan
Year: 1957
Mileage: 46000
VIN: 310201
Color: Yellow
Engine: 1.8 liter VW type 4
Cylinders: 4
Fuel: Gasoline
Transmission: Manual
Drive type: RWD
Interior color: Gray
Drive side: Left-hand drive
Vehicle Title: Clear
Item location: San Diego, California, United States
Extras
Sunroof

Listed by
Private seller
Enquire

Description of 1957 Volkswagen Bus/Vanagon

This is a German built 1957 split window walk-thru bus with upgraded running gear throughout. Get the looks and style of a 50's split window with the drivability of a mid 70's Baywindow.

Built in Hanover Germany in October 1957.

Originally a pressed bumper model (1957), currently has stainless steel over-rider 1958 style bumpers.

Stainless steel front VW emblem.

Period correct reproduction folding fabric sunroof.

Safari windows front and rear.

New in the last 3 years- Stripped down and all metal work performed, painted, brakes (discs in front), rebuilt 1.8 liter VW engine, fuel-lines, electrical, hidden kill switch, Perko battery switch (marine grade), starter, alternator, distributor, coil, exhaust, dual carbs, fuel sending unit and gauge, steering drop link, complete interior, sunroof, roof rack, bumpers, emblems, wood steering wheel, Pyle 4-way 6 x 9 speakers, Pyle amplifier with MP3 USB reader & remote control, headlights, tires, cargo door mechanism, and assorted small items.

Steering was a little sloppy so we replaced the drop link arm and it's much better with a little play. I takes it on the freeway from time to time with no issues, but as with most of these old buses it could benefit from a new steering box at some point and short-shift kit and/or new bushings to tighten up the shifter linkage. It took me 1 day to feel comfortable with the shifting and I've never missed a gear since. 1St, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and reverse are exactly where they are supposed to be, but the “H” pattern is not very tight. These issues probably don't need to be address for several years, but that's up to you.

Currently installed- fresh rebuilt 1975 1.8 liter VW bus engine with “Premium DUAL 40 HPMX CARBURETORS”, 1976 091 “5 rib” 4 speed bus transmission. Fires right up and idles smooth even when cold.

Included in the “Buy it Now” price is a fresh rebuilt Porsche 914 2.0 liter long-block engine. This was originally a 1.8 liter 914 engine that was rebuilt with big bore pistons. This motor is an easy swap for the current motor in the bus. They are both “pancake” engines and use the same accessory parts- alternator, cooling fan, distributor, coil, carburetors, oil cooler, etc. Swapping these motors is a 1/2 day job for an experienced VW mechanic.

If you want a Porsche powered VW split window bus here's your chance, if not send me an offer and state that it's for the bus with the current VW engine only.

No signs of any accidents. Odometer shows 46,000 but TMU unknown

Like any/all 61 year old cars it has it's small imperfections, chips, scratches, nicks, etc.

Clean CA title in hand, registered through October 2019.

I'm happy to assist with domestic or international shipping at buyer's expenses.

Included items- Car cover, “Peace Sign” rug, VW bus picnic blanket and carrying case, fire extinguisher, stereo remote control, church key (full size), church key (key chain size), oval metal 1957 Germany “D” plate, 2 (red & blue) VW bus beach towels.


The last picture is of the Porsche 914 engine. This listing includes two (2) engines, the VW type IV 1.8 liter engine currently in the bus and the Porsche 2.0 liter engine not yet installed. VW engine has 200 miles on it and Porsche engine has zero (0) miles on it.