Volks, The Export (as opposed to the Standard) Type 1 sedan came with either fabric or PVC (vinyl) upholstery. Apparently regional importers could make the call regarding what they wanted. My 1958 (from Dolph Strachey's Riviera Motors, in Portland) had a fabric interior, since they charged extra for "leatherette" (i.e., vinyl). My 1961 Type 1 Export, USA model, bought from a dealer in Mainz, also gave me the choice of regular fabric upholstery or vinyl (at additional cost). It's entirely possible to have a USA-destined Type 1 Export with fabric interior. I also brought in a few "gray-market" imports in the early sixties with full USA equipment but with the fabric seats. It was a check-list option (that is, an "M-Ausstattung") on the order form.
The VWOA organization clearly pushed the so-called "leatherette" seats, but regional importers could still get cloth. They were better-ventilated in summer, warmer in winter, and IMHO much classier in appearance than the cheesy textured vinyl. I've been unable to find the cloth seats for restorations. A German source says they no longer exist as an aftermarket item. Pity. My two pfennigs' worth. 8^) Bert Knupp in Music City USA _______________________________________________ vintagvw site list [email protected] http://lists.sjsu.edu/mailman/listinfo/vintagvw
