1964 Volkswagen Type 2 Deluxe 21-Window Microbus

Check out the 1964 Volkswagen 21-Window Bus, famously known as the VW Samba! As Berkley One Classics celebrates the big 5-0, we’re hosting an exciting virtual car show for collectors and enthusiasts alike. We’ll share our love of classic cars by spotlighting 50 cars for 50 years that have been chosen and beloved by our employees. Each will showcase the evolution of design and engineering and provide a nostalgic journey through auto and pop culture history. Read on as Julie Nekali, Customer Support Specialist I at Berkley One Classics, tells us why she loves the Volkswagen 21-Window Bus.

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The Car:

The 1964 Volkswagen 21-Window Bus, also known as the VW Samba, is a renowned version of the VW Type 2. This vehicle’s vintage look makes it very unique. Complete with twenty-one Windows that pop open on the side as well as a pop-out split windshield, the 1964 Volkswagen Type 2 Deluxe 21-Window Microbus is great vehicle for cruising around. This seven-seater van is powered by a 1.5 liter air cooled engine producing 53hp and mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. The design’s cultural symbolism and functionality has made it a prize for any collector today.

The Collector:

In the world of the Classic Volkswagen Bus, it’s all about the windows. Why? Because each bus was specifically named based on the number of its windows. The basic eleven window bus was called the Kombi or Microbus. The thirteen-window bus was named the Deluxe Bus, and in 1964, the first twenty-one window Samba was produced. Before 1964, the twenty-three window Samba had 2 small, curved corner windows in the back of the bus which were discontinued in ’64 and replaced with a large canvas sunroof on the roof of the Deluxe Bus. Today, the twenty-one window Samba is highly sought after.

The Love:

The remarkable design and look of the 1964 Volkswagen Type 2 Deluxe 21-Window Microbus really catch the eyes of vintage car enthusiasts. This is a great vehicle to take for a ride and enjoy the mountain views with the panoramic windows.

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Contributed by Julie Nekali

Photo: Alamy

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This car feature is part of our 50 Cars for 50 Years campaign in honor of Berkley One Classics celebrating 50 year of insuring collectors and their vehicles. See the other cars we love here.

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Berkley One Classics is a Berkley Company who recognizes that classic cars are unique and require insurance that’s equally distinctive. Let us help you protect your beloved vehicle so you can enjoy it for years to come. Learn more here.