DT: 1964 Volkswagen Transporter Single Cab "Shorty" Custom Pickup
Vehicle Details
- Year: 1964
- Make: Volkswagen
- Model: Transporter Single Cab
- VIN: 1288614
- Mileage Shown: 67mi (TMU)
- Transmission: Manual
- Title Status: Clean
- Color: Yellow
- Seller Type: Private Party
- Location: Santa Monica, CA 90406
- Lot #: V-0044753-DT
The 1964 Volkswagen Transporter Single Cab, a member of the T1 series, is celebrated for its split-windshield design and enduring VW allure. This example showcases a vibrant yellow exterior and a custom interior featuring Sparco bucket seats. The restoration included significant modifications such as shortening the wheelbase to approximately 4 feet and reducing the rear bed size. It also received a rebuilt 1600cc flat-four engine with a Solex carburetor, a new clutch, and various upgraded components. Acquired by the seller approximately 20 years ago, it has been meticulously maintained and stored in a garage. Highlighted in the book 'VW Bus: The First 50 Years 1949 - 1999', this iconic Volkswagen is now offered for auction in California.
Characterized by its split-windshield design, this VW has been transformed with a custom “Shorty” pick-up configuration, presenting a shortened wheelbase to approximately 4 feet along with a shorted rear bed. As part of the restoration, this example was professionally primed and refinished with bold yellow paint. Details include qua exhaust outlets, chrome accents, bumpers, and window trim, and a rear bed is flanked by engine-turned aluminum and bordered by wooden rails. It rides on aftermarket Spirit of America wheels with coordinating center caps and Monarch Metric tires from 2007 reported to have ample remaining tread. Minor blemishes discovered upon close inspection are noted, and additional images are provided in the gallery.
The yellow theme extends into the cabin, which houses aftermarket Sparco bucket seats with 4-point harnesses, a Scat shifter, and a grey leather-wrapped 4-spoke Lecarra steering wheel. Interior features include a white-faced VDO fuel gauge, aftermarket speedometer, AM/FM radio, chrome accents, grey carpeting, and custom pedal, steering column, and emergency brake covers. All interior panels have been custom cut and coated in black Line-X, with Dynamat Xtreme noise-reducing insulation behind each panel. The seller notes the windshield wipers are currently inoperable, and the odometer requires a new cable.
Power is provided by a rebuilt 1600cc air-cooled flat-four engine with a single Solex carburetor sending power to the rear wheels through a 4-speed manual transmission. The seller adds that a new clutch and front brake pads were fitted within the last 200 miles, the vehicle has been regularly serviced upon their acquisition, and the engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid were recently changed. The front brakes require slight adjustment, as the vehicle is reported to pull left upon hard braking. Adding to the appeal of the engine bay are yellow surrounds and chrome accents.
This sale will include a clean title.
The seller would like you to know: “Thank you for taking the time to visit my auction. As a passionate car enthusiast, I have had the pleasure of owning this classic Volkswagen for over two decades. Throughout this time, it has been thoroughly maintained and garage-kept in Southern California. Over the years, I’ve ensured that every aspect of this vehicle has received professional attention and regular servicing. This car has brought me immense joy and has been a true crowd-pleaser wherever it goes. Please review the detailed photographs and other information provided. I’ll do my best to answer any questions you might have. I truly appreciate your interest in this special VW!"
Comments (34)
Offer in the amount of $26,000
Bid in the amount of $22,000
Bid in the amount of $21,000
Bid in the amount of $20,750
Bid in the amount of $19,500
Bid in the amount of $18,500
Bid in the amount of $17,750
Bid in the amount of $17,500
Bid in the amount of $17,250
Bid in the amount of $17,000
Bid in the amount of $16,750
Bid in the amount of $16,500
Bid in the amount of $16,250
Bid in the amount of $16,000
Bid in the amount of $15,000
Bid in the amount of $13,000
Absolutely beautiful! This is definitely one of the coolest VW transporters I’ve ever seen. All the impressive customization makes it a truly standout piece. Clearly, a lot of love and skill went into the modifications!
The front crumple zones on Transporters = my teenagers are not allowed to drive them. Freeway!!! Heheh. In this. It begs the question I have for the cockpits of the Blue Angels how do you fit minerals that big in such a small space.
@seller, thanks for the reply. I totally want to buy this thing but I'm really worried about my teenage kids not understanding the danger of driving a short wheelbase car. If I could keep them below 45mph I think it would be fine however my 17yr old daughter only knows one speed . . . FAST!!! Let me think about it before bidding. Thanks again.
@Noahjohn Appreciate your questions. The VW will cruise along the freeway at 60 miles per hour. However, due to its shortened wheelbase, you have to be cautious about braking heavily or changing lanes too quickly. We've completed extensive work on the vehicle and have maintained it meticulously since we’ve owned it. This includes removing and going through the engine, and adding new components such as a new clutch, swing axle boots, brakes and pads, brake reservoir, and fuel sender, amongst other things. We've also regularly replaced all fluids. Additionally, we've installed all-new interior panels with sound-reducing dynamat behind the custom-cut panels, new seats, and four-point harnesses. The list of upgrades and maintenance is extensive. We are also happy to coordinate with your shipping company and can be available to meet them for the handover. Thank you!
Bid in the amount of $12,600
@seller, sorry I'm coming to this auction a bit late but I have a couple questions.
What is the top speed that you feel comfortable driving it at? Will it do 45mph safely and comfortably?
What work have you done to the pickup in your 20 years of ownership as opposed to already being "finished" before you bought it?
Can you assist in shipping? I can set it up but would need help coordinating with shipper etc.
Bid in the amount of $11,999
Bid in the amount of $10,500
Bid in the amount of $10,000
Bid in the amount of $5,500
Bid in the amount of $5,250
@TomBoy With a 2180 cc performance motor, it would definitely need a wheelie bar! With that kind of horsepower, the front wheels would spend more time in the air than on the road! :)
Bid in the amount of $5,000
This thing would be a blast with a 2180 cc performance motor in it. Would also be awesome to drive around swap meets like Pate in Fort Worth and throw all the stuff you purchase in the back bed.
@Mulligan It's really great to hear from someone with your experience in custom vehicles, especially with a best in show under your belt! Very much appreciate your thoughtful comments for the VW and so happy to be a part of something that brings together enthusiasts who celebrate the art of automotive craftsmanship. Thank you!
I have seen and owned many custom fabricated vehicles in my time even won a best in show. This guy knows is way around a car it's put together meticulously, what a perfect blast from the past.
@Blubusdrvr And I’ve yet to find a parking spot that’s too small! ;-)
I'm guessing shipping must be half of what a full size 23 window would be?? ;-)