1959 VW 23 Window Barn Find
You have heard the term "the right place at the right time" before most certainly
and when it comes to finding old cars hidden out of view, this always comes into play.
There are many thousands of cars for sale online...fishing in that sea is easy
but when it comes to the un-fished ponds around the country...you just gotta be there first hand when the fish start jumping.
One such lucky fisherman lives in rural Illinois and grew up in the neighborhood
among the trees and nature's beauty. One house in the neighborhood had remained vacant for years
and as a young man this fellow had peeked in the windows and cracks of the barn and saw something cool.
With nobody around, there was no one to talk to, but a short time back there was some action at the property.
The place had been sold to a real estate investor that wanted the place cleaned out before he re-sold it.
Being in that "right place at the right time" this fellow struck a deal on the old car in the shed.
The shed was literally starting to return to the earth and I am certain that it would not be long before it fell
so great care was taken to reveal the hidden treasure without injury.
First a couple of boards on the side were removed...
With a little access they were able to get in and see what was really under that tin roof.
Obviously sitting for a long time indeed.
Lots of dirt and shrapnel around it, and obviously a bit of rust to deal with.
Bullet front turn signals, all the trim intact..
Wow...so crazy
What a crazy tomb for a "Magic Bus"!
VW engine parts scattered around...Ive had dreams like this.
In a little closer...I love the light filtering in...
Oh there is some crusty bits...but once it has come out of hiding we can see just how good, or bad, it is.
Dash looks amazing
Sunroof parts all appear to be here as well as all the glass
Clearing some of the junk away it already it looking more respectable.
Now with the front of the barn opened up, that pretty face gets its first glimpse of daylight in decades.
With the help of some heavy equipment to clear the path and support the roof of the structure
its time to pull it out into the world.
OK...lets go!
A tight squeeze indeed...even had to remove the corner post of the shed to avoid any damage.
But here it comes...finally released from its tomb!
Shockingly all the tires aired up and with a little effort the wheels broke free and turned/
Out in the daylight it looks like a completely different Bus.
Standing proud and ready for a new chapter in its life.
Its a 1959 model, the first year for the "slash" bumpers.
Someone added a big brake light to the back at some point.
Definitely has been repainted on the exterior but the age and patina are insanely awesome
so it would be neat to preserve it as it is.
Body overall seems pretty decent
Nose looks good, I love the "Help the POWs and MIA's bumper sticker.
The owner has left it dirty and undisturbed on the exterior...leaving that first bath to the next owner.
I like that approach!
But maybe we should ask him to brush the racoon poop off the roof before shipping?
Leave the dust and dirt though...its just too perfect.
Dash is complete and un-cut
The interior has been fully cleaned out and the floor back here looks shockingly decent
No back seats were found but the kick panels for both seats are actually here!
Original carpets and panels remain in place
Matching spare with the rare trim ring
A gas heater is installed under the dash on the passenger side
Underside shots are are far more impressive than I would have first thought.
Not too shabby!
Some rust in spots on the seam ...but the original undercoating is still covering much of the underside.
The rare accessory "ambulance step" is a very uncommon option.
Definitely will need some welding and metal work as you can see.
But its really not crazy bad my any means
Even the rockers are solid and not blown out down this side.
Engine room
Trans is in place
Lots of engine parts and such.
Rear apron is here
There is even a dual port engine carcass that comes with it.
In closing this is a dream find for VW nuts around the world.
While it has already been "found", the next owner will have the artifact still "barn fresh"
and the joy of revival or restoration can be theirs alone.
Asking
$42,000 obo
For More Info...CALL
951 767 1600
or email oldbug@earthlink.net