Shorty VW Microbus Redefines The Term Micro

Nowadays, classic Volkswagen Microbus vans (T1s) in pristine condition can fetch a pretty penny, with some rare examples exceeding six-digits.

There are, however, other samples on the market that are far more affordable, such as this custom model that’s listed by RMSothebys for their Auburn Fall auction, on August 30.

Coming from a private collection, it was made in 1963, and some 20 years later, its owner, ‘Oz Bus’, chopped four feet (1.2m) out of it and completely rebuilt it.

Nicknamed ‘Shorty’, the Volkswagen Microbus features Corvette front air dam and taillights, different fender flares, side air scoops, halogen headlights, roof-mounted Pontiac Trans Am spoiler and chrome accents that have seen better days.

Also Read: VW Confirms I.D. Buzz For Production In 2022

The rest of the exterior is finished in a color called Candy Brandy Wine and adorned with Murano pearl graphics accents and a custom mural at the front inspired by ‘The Wizard of Oz’. The custom creation rides on Cragar SS magnesium wheels, in Goodyear rubber.

Cadillac velour has been used to upholster the interior, which gets 14-karat gold leaf panels, lighted aircraft switches, 6-inch (15 cm) chrome steering wheel, and a Gene Berg billet shifter.

Shorty is powered by a 1972 Volkswagen four-cylinder engine, 1,835cc in displacement, with lots of upgrades, including a functional side exhaust system, and mated to a four-speed manual transmission.

This Volkswagen Microbus is offered without reserve and it’s estimated to change hands for $15,000 to $18,000, or about the price of a new Jetta. Question is, would you consider bidding for it?