1957 Volkswagen Type 2 split-window bus with EFI, IRS, disc brakes and A/C

Why we picked it

This 1957 split-window bus has already had much of the modernizing done. The seller lists a 1,700cc air-cooled four rebuilt with parts from a European 2.0-liter 914, electronic fuel injection and ignition, independent rear suspension, power-assisted disc brakes, a 12-volt conversion and concealed air conditioning. It is refinished in Palm Green over Sand Green with custom upholstery and headliner. The current owner has had it since 2013, and it has a clean Hawaii title in the seller's name.

The bid is $5,000 after 10 bids, and the auction ends October 19. Recent modified T1 buses have sold for roughly $21,000 to $60,000, so even a much higher final bid could still be good value. The listing does not say whether there is a reserve, and bids on split-window buses usually climb sharply near the end. Budget for shipping from Hawaii.

The value check

When we found it, the bid was $15,000. Comparable cars in the same condition have sold for $20,900–$62,000, so the middle of the market is about $41,450. That put this car 64% under.

Modified T1 split-window buses sold for $20,900 to $60,000 from August to October 2026, and a modified 1958 15-window was bid to $62,009 without selling. The $5,000 bid is far below the roughly $41,000 midpoint, but nine days remain and bids usually climb a lot.

Where the numbers come from:

• CLASSIC.COM VW T1 Microbus market
• 1967 VW Microbus, modified, sold $41,000 (Oct 2026)
• 1958 VW 15-Window Bus, modified, bid to $62,009 (Aug 2026)

What to check

• The listing does not describe the body; check the cargo floor, cab floor, outriggers, jacking points, rear corners, battery tray and lower nose, the classic T1 rot spots and a concern on an island car
• The seller calls it a Deluxe 15-window, but CLASSIC.COM lists it as a Microbus; confirm the spec with a VW birth certificate before paying a Deluxe premium
• Inspect the IRS conversion, brake booster setup and the 12-volt and EFI wiring; ask who did the work and for receipts
• A/C adds heat and load to an air-cooled engine; ask about head temperatures on long climbs
• Mileage is TMU and the 6-volt radio is not connected

Making it drive like new

Most of the hard work is done. Next steps would be a front disc and steering-box check, an adjustable front beam or fresh beam bushings, modern radials sized for the added weight, and an oil-cooler and engine-bay heat review to protect the 914-based engine with the A/C running.

How it ended

Bidding reached $27,250 but the car didn't sell (ended Oct 19, 2026). Unsold cars often get relisted, so it may turn up again.