INFO GUIDE: 1955 - 1958 Volkswagen Deluxe Microbus (Samba Bus)

This guide has been drafted for the 23-window Volkswagen Deluxe Microbus, often referred to as the “Samba” bus or “Alpine” bus (depending on the market). For simplicity, this vehicle will be referred to as the “Samba” or "Deluxe Microbus" throughout this guide. The guide outlines the features of the Samba from March 1955 – July 1958, which among enthusiasts is regarded as a series which embodies several changes distinct from the pre-March 1955 “Barn-door” bus, and subsequent changes from August 1958 onward. Follow this link for information on the pre-March 1955 Samba bus.

Although the 1955 – 1958 vehicles are dealt with in this guide as a distinct series of the Samba bus, many changes to the vehicles occurred within these years, as Volkswagen didn’t necessarily wait until a new model year to introduce alterations. Many features of the 1955 - 1958 model were carried over from the pre-1955 Samba bus, and certain features were added or changed depending on the vehicle’s year and market.

The prices asked for genuine 23-window Samba buses are very high, with significantly higher prices paid for early, original and low production vehicles. As a prospective purchaser or restorer, it is essential to have an understanding of the various features which distinguish the year models in order to determine a vehicle’s authenticity and originality. This guide provides information with respect to the visual clues, relevant codes and unique features applicable to the original Samba bus within the specific production period noted.

Production numbers and period of manufacture:

Production of the post barn-door buses commenced in March 1955 and the series targeted in this guide concluded in July 1958.

Note: the above production numbers have been confirmed on several online sources. However, the accuracy of these figures cannot be guaranteed. It has not been confirmed whether these production numbers refer to calendar year or production year figures.

Please note, this guide has been written based on a variety of online sources and enthusiast input. You should not rely on this guide to make any purchasing decision and we make no representation that all information is accurate. You should always seek independent professional advice when looking to purchase a unique car. If you have additional information, photographs or corrections you believe need to be made to this page, please contact us by clicking the button at the top of this page, or comment below.