The inspiration behind this magnificent build was to create the perfect picnic bus for enjoying valuable time with the owner’s family in style. The process began with gathering inspiration from other custom Split Screen builds to create a mood board, before cherry-picking the very best ideas to produce the ultimate Split Screen bus. The family project was completed in 2015 by South West Classic VW and has since been inspected by the Split Screen Van Club, receiving an excellent rating in all categories. No expense has been spared in this build, and it truly needs to be seen in person to fully appreciate the quality and craftsmanship.

Starting with the exterior, the bus showcases a standout metallic paint finish by Stanton Trading Ltd. It is finished in champagne beige over walnut brown – a colour combination that appears subtle in the shade yet sparkles to life in sunlight. Further complementing the bodywork are the metallic brown contrasting VW front badge, the brown mohair Samba roof and the chrome Fuchs wheels on which it proudly sits.

Further enhancing both the appearance and the open-air experience of this 23-window Split Screen are the front safari windows, eight pop-out side windows and the signature Samba retracting sunroof.

Most importantly, this Split Screen boasts a structurally solid, rust-free chassis.

Power comes from a 2,000cc engine built by Java Restorations, featuring twin Weber 40 IDF carburettors paired with a Vintage Speed stainless steel exhaust system. An external oil cooler is installed beneath the vehicle to assist in maintaining oil temperatures, given the enhanced performance of this Split Screen’s engine compared to conventional setups. The front brakes have been upgraded to CSP disc brake conversion.

The Split Screen has been lowered using an adjustable front beam and an independent rear suspension (IRS) conversion. The removal of the reduction boxes as part of the IRS setup results in taller gearing, which works perfectly in combination with the larger-capacity 2,000cc engine.

The interior has undergone a complete refurbishment by Iconic VW Interiors and Custom Classic Retro Auto Trim, specialists we at Absolute VW have worked closely with and whose craftsmanship we can confidently vouch for. The colour combination of the exterior continues throughout the interior, featured in the rear L-shaped 2-berth rock ’n’ roll bench, the front bench seat, the door cards and carpets. The cushions and curtains have been upholstered in matching patterned fabric providing a tasteful contrast.

The handcrafted wooden bulkhead unit incorporates a champagne cabinet, an integrated elevating TV and a Kenwood multimedia head unit. Speakers have been installed to the bulkhead unit and beneath the rear bench, along with LED spotlights and roof-mounted upright lights throughout the interior. The matching footstool provides additional storage. Powering the electronics is a leisure battery with split charging, located beneath the side rear bench.

Up front in the cabin, the driver grips a wood-rimmed polished three-spoke steering wheel while enjoying their favourite music through a bluetooth RetroSound receiver installed in place of the original radio. To the right of the steering wheel is a button that sounds the La Cucaracha horn, sounded through the horn trumpets mounted to the underside.

Now is your chance to get behind the wheel of a truly one-of-a-kind 23-Window Samba Split Screen. Please take the time to review the detailed image set and walkaround video. We also encourage you to visit our Derbyshire-based site to view and fully appreciate this exceptional example, as you will not find another quite like it.

Located at Absolute VW Ltd, Shardlow, Derbyshire, UK (DE72 2GP) available for ramp inspections and test drive with one of the team.  For further enquiries or to discuss details in depth, please do not hesitate to contact us at 01332 814448.

Opening hours Monday to Friday 8:30am – 5:30pm