Volkswagen Microbus
1962 Volkswagen Microbus: The Iconic VW Type 2
The 1962 Volkswagen Microbus is one of the most recognizable classic vehicles ever produced. Part of the legendary Volkswagen Type 2 family, the Microbus combined simple engineering, practical space and distinctive styling to become a symbol of travel, freedom and the counterculture movement.
With its split personality as both a practical commercial vehicle and a fun people carrier, the Microbus has developed an enormous following among classic-car enthusiasts, collectors and model car fans.
The History of the Volkswagen Microbus
The Volkswagen Type 2 was introduced in 1950, following the success of the Volkswagen Beetle. Volkswagen developed the Type 2 as a versatile vehicle that could serve as a van, pickup, passenger transporter or camper.
The basic design was remarkably straightforward. The engine was mounted at the rear, leaving a flat floor and useful cargo or passenger space between the axles. Its forward-control layout gave the Microbus its characteristic short nose and large, upright cabin.
By 1962, Volkswagen had refined the Type 2 considerably. The vehicle was still instantly recognizable, but improvements to its mechanical components, interior and body construction had made it increasingly useful as everyday transportation.
1962 Volkswagen Microbus Design
The Microbus’s design is perhaps its greatest attraction. Its rounded roof, split windscreen, large side windows and two-tone paint schemes created a look unlike almost anything else on the road.
The standard Microbus could accommodate a substantial number of passengers, while different seating configurations allowed Volkswagen to adapt the Type 2 to a variety of uses.
Chrome bumpers, steel wheels, simple hubcaps and the distinctive Volkswagen emblem contributed to its friendly appearance. The large windows provided excellent visibility and helped make the cabin feel surprisingly spacious.
A Practical Interior
Inside, the Microbus was deliberately functional. The emphasis was on durability, versatility and ease of use rather than luxury.
Depending on configuration, the interior could feature multiple rows of seats, removable seating and considerable luggage or cargo space. This made the Microbus equally useful for families, businesses, clubs and recreational travel.
Mechanical Characteristics
The 1962 Microbus used Volkswagen’s familiar air-cooled, rear-mounted flat-four engine. The engine was paired with a manual transmission and drove the rear wheels.
Performance was modest by modern standards, but outright speed was never the Type 2’s primary purpose. Its strengths were practicality, simplicity and the ability to carry people and equipment in a compact package.
The air-cooled engine also eliminated the need for a conventional liquid-cooling system, contributing to the Microbus’s reputation for straightforward mechanical construction.
Volkswagen Microbus Variants
The Type 2 was produced in numerous configurations, and the Microbus name is often used broadly when referring to the passenger versions.
Some of the best-known variants include:
- Kombi – A practical passenger and cargo configuration.
- Microbus – Designed primarily for passenger transportation.
- Samba Bus – The highly desirable luxury passenger version with numerous windows and a fabric sunroof.
- Transporter – Commercial van configurations.
- Pickup – A useful commercial version with an open cargo bed.
- Camper conversions – Adapted for recreational touring and camping.
The Samba Bus is particularly sought after by collectors today. Its extensive glazing, distinctive roof configuration and period styling make it one of the most valuable and recognizable Type 2 variants.
The Microbus and the 1960s
The Volkswagen Microbus became much more than a means of transportation during the 1960s. Its roomy interior, relatively affordable running costs and distinctive appearance made it popular with young people and travellers.
As the decade progressed, the Microbus became strongly associated with road trips, surfing, camping and the emerging counterculture.
Its reputation as a vehicle for adventure helped transform the Type 2 from an ordinary utility vehicle into a cultural icon.
The Volkswagen Microbus as a Collector Car
Today, early Volkswagen Microbuses are highly desirable collector vehicles. Original examples can be difficult to find, particularly vehicles retaining their original bodywork, interior and mechanical components.
Condition, originality, specification and provenance can all have a major effect on value. Rare configurations, unusual factory options and desirable Samba models can command particularly strong prices.
Restored examples are also popular, with many owners carefully returning vehicles to period-correct colors and specifications.
1962 Volkswagen Microbus Diecast Model Cars
The popularity of the Volkswagen Microbus has made it a favorite subject for diecast model manufacturers. Its instantly recognizable shape translates particularly well into miniature form.
Collectors can find Type 2 models in several popular scales, including:
| Scale | Approximate Model Length | Collecting Appeal |
|---|---|---|
| 1:18 | 20–23 cm | Highly detailed display models |
| 1:24 | 17–18 cm | Good balance of size and detail |
| 1:43 | 9–10 cm | Compact collector scale |
| 1:64 | 6–7 cm | Popular for small-scale collections |
Manufacturers such as Schuco, Sun Star, Norev, GreenLight, Solido and Maisto have produced Volkswagen Type 2 models in various scales and specifications over the years.
The Samba Bus is particularly popular in miniature, with collectors seeking examples featuring opening doors, detailed interiors, separate bumpers, accurate period wheels and two-tone paintwork.
Why the 1962 Microbus Remains Popular
The 1962 Volkswagen Microbus has an appeal that goes well beyond its mechanical specifications. Its friendly appearance, practical design and connection with an important period of automotive and popular culture have made it one of the world’s most recognizable classic vehicles.
For collectors, the Microbus offers an interesting combination of automotive history, distinctive design and cultural significance. Whether restored as a full-size classic, displayed as a diecast model or simply admired at a car show, the 1962 Volkswagen Microbus remains an enduring automotive icon.
Conclusion
The 1962 Volkswagen Microbus represents one of the most memorable chapters in Volkswagen history. Built around simplicity and practicality, the Type 2 evolved into a vehicle that became synonymous with travel, freedom and adventure.
More than six decades later, its unmistakable silhouette continues to attract enthusiasts around the world. From full-size restored examples to highly detailed diecast Microbus models, the 1962 Type 2 remains a favorite among classic Volkswagen and model-car collectors alike.
Looking for a scale model of this car? Explore our guide to buying model cars and discover diecast and collectible versions available from specialist retailers.
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