'Windows' of opportunity at Shannons Spring Sale

MELBOURNE – Sept 6, 2013: It’s all about the ‘windows’ at Shannons Melbourne Spring Auction on September 23.

And the more the better when it comes to two very rare and collectable early Volkswagens: a right hand drive ‘split rear window’ 1951 ‘Beetle’ and a restored ‘21-Window’ 1966 Volkswagen Kombi Microbus.

The very early Beetle 11B sedan was built in 1951 and delivered new to Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) and was one of the first 'Split Window' models factory-built with right hand drive.

The car remained in Africa until 1985 and reportedly spent some of its early life being used as a rally car, however since arriving in Australia almost 30 years ago, the Beetle has been progressively restored and improved by various owners.

The car now has a slightly later 25hp motor, dating from 1953 and was also upgraded with Deluxe hydraulic brakes at some point, replacing the original cable-operated items.

The split-case box, although not original to the car, is correct for the model and both the front and rear suspension are also of the correct 1951 type.

Painted Pearl Grey and with the seats re-trimmed in the correct-style German material, Shannons are offering this potentially collectable early Beetle for sale with no reserve and expect it to sell in the $14,000-$18,000 range.

Even more exciting for VW collectors is a rare ‘21-Window’ VW Kombi ragtop that was a personal import from Huntington Beach, California.

Always kept garaged, this iconic Volkswagen Microbus is understood to have been restored in 2003 and presents in very good condition in its stylish period two-tone colour combination

Retaining its original left hand drive configuration to enhance its International value, the Kombi is powered by a later 1600cc engine and has been upgraded to 12-volt electrics, making it a practical proposition for cruising Australia’s best surf break beaches.

Because of its condition and iconic surfie status, Shannons expect the Kombi ’21 Window’ is worth looking into by enthusiasts and collectors at its $40,000-$48,000 estimated selling range.

Other fascinating European classics in the September 23 Melbourne Auction include a largely original and well-presented 1957 Heinkel Kabinkruiser Type 154 Micro Car ($12,000-$16,000) and a quirky 1988 Citroen 2CV Beachcomber sedan requiring minor refurbishment that is offered with no reserve and is expected to sell in the $8,000-$12,000 range.