Volkswagen, T1 “Sophie” turns 70
Construction and maintenance of Trucks

Volkswagen, T1 “Sophie” turns 70

Work cars are designed to last long, but given their tedious lives, they still rarely exceed 50 years in perfect condition. However, there is an example in Germany of the Volkswagen T1, the popular Bulli derived from the Beetle, which has just closed. 70 candles.

This model, chassis number 20-1880painted in blue-blue (literally “dove blue”), it is the first Bulli registered in Lower Saxony in 1950 and today it is one of the most significant works of art. Collection Oldtimer edited by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles in Hannover.

Who goes slowly ...

The story of "Sophie", as the penultimate owner called T1, begins quite normally, with 23 years faithful service, during which, however, he gains less than 100.000 km... After retirement, it is sold to an enthusiast who keeps it for almost 20 years with little or no use. Finally, he sells it for a rather modest sum to a Danish collector who intends to renovate it and use it for rallies and events.

A bit of work

Although the Bulli is fairly well preserved, the owner wishes to return it to the state. as best you can and for this he spends all the necessary time, patiently working on this for about ten years and, finally, will return him on the road only after 2003.

Queen of hannover

From this moment, "Sophie" begins to conquer a certain popularity among fans of the brand and model, until the news of its existence reaches the ears of the heads of Volkswagen's historic cars department, who decide to bring it home. Thus, in 2014, the sample 20-1880 is sent to the museum, which today, afterfurther update, represents one of the strengths.

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