1963 Airstream Safari

10 Bids
8:15 PM, 24 May 2023Vehicle sold
Sold for

£26,000

(inc. Buyer’s Premium)
consigner image

Mark's review

Mark Livesey - Consignment Specialist Message Mark

“ All American Icon - Beautiful ”

Given the year of production, we think this Airstream Safari is in great shape. It presents well and as far as we can see is clean, tidy and free from any corrosion.

It has quite obviously been looked after, with little expense spared in ensuring that it looks just as it did back in ’63. It has all the vital equipment you should need to last you when you’re out exploring the great plains or hiking through the Alps, heck, dare we even say you could live life comfortably off the grid for a while, should you chose to do so.

We estimate this vehicle to fetch between £23,000 - £30,000 in auction.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular car is located with the vendor in Bury St. Edmunds, United Kingdom. To arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.

Background

First introduced in the 1930s by Wally Beam, the Airstream was designed to allow people to travel in comfort and style. The early Airstreams were built using aircraft construction techniques which made them lightweight and sturdy. Airstreams very quickly gained a following among adventurers and travellers who appreciated their durability and ease of use.

During the second world war, Airstream temporarily shifted its production focus to aircraft parts but resumed normal production of travel trailers after the war ended. Airstreams became popular with families looking for a way to travel, see the country and be connected to the great outdoors. There are several factors that have contributed to the enduring popularity of Airstream caravans. One, and the most obvious, is their unique design and sleek, shiny exterior. Even if you’re not a caravan person, you know an Airstream when you see one thanks to their instantly recognisable and eye-catching aluminium finish.

Airstreams are also built to last. Being constructed from high quality materials, they are capable of withstanding years of travel and usage. This durability is one of the factors that makes them so popular as well as a smart investment for regular campers alike.

Over the years, Airstream has continued to innovate and refine its design, incorporating modern amenities and technologies whilst still maintaining the classic look and feel of its trailers. Many Airstreams are generally a comfortable and convenient way to travel as they feature many modern amenities like air conditioning, kitchens and bathrooms and heating.

Overall, the combination of classic style, modern convenience and durability has made the Airstream caravans an enduring symbol of adventure and freedom and that is what continues to make them highly desirable, even today.

  • 223T108
  • N/A
  • 0
  • manual
  • Silver Polished Aluminium
  • Blue/White
  • N/A
  • Other

Vehicle location
Bury St. Edmunds, United Kingdom

Background

First introduced in the 1930s by Wally Beam, the Airstream was designed to allow people to travel in comfort and style. The early Airstreams were built using aircraft construction techniques which made them lightweight and sturdy. Airstreams very quickly gained a following among adventurers and travellers who appreciated their durability and ease of use.

During the second world war, Airstream temporarily shifted its production focus to aircraft parts but resumed normal production of travel trailers after the war ended. Airstreams became popular with families looking for a way to travel, see the country and be connected to the great outdoors. There are several factors that have contributed to the enduring popularity of Airstream caravans. One, and the most obvious, is their unique design and sleek, shiny exterior. Even if you’re not a caravan person, you know an Airstream when you see one thanks to their instantly recognisable and eye-catching aluminium finish.

Airstreams are also built to last. Being constructed from high quality materials, they are capable of withstanding years of travel and usage. This durability is one of the factors that makes them so popular as well as a smart investment for regular campers alike.

Over the years, Airstream has continued to innovate and refine its design, incorporating modern amenities and technologies whilst still maintaining the classic look and feel of its trailers. Many Airstreams are generally a comfortable and convenient way to travel as they feature many modern amenities like air conditioning, kitchens and bathrooms and heating.

Overall, the combination of classic style, modern convenience and durability has made the Airstream caravans an enduring symbol of adventure and freedom and that is what continues to make them highly desirable, even today.

Overview

This single axle Airstream Safari was first built in Ohio in 1963; it is one of the few remaining trailers that used thicker aluminium during the build process. Aircraft engineering does not come cheap, and these trailers were the cost of a house when they were built. They are very aerodynamic and easy to tow and move around, due to the single axle. It does not snake when on the road. It has a UK axle and hitch.

In terms of amenities, this 1963 Airstream Safari is certainly very modern for its age.

Internally you will find everything that you should need for a comfortable few days and nights in the wilderness. A cooker, fridge and heater can be found inside as well as a bathroom with running taps, a functioning loo. The vendor tells us that the fridge and cooker are both an original Airstream product.

Additionally, the interior space can be rearranged to suit the needs of the occupant. There is a drop leaf table and two pull out double beds. Airstream connoisseurs will be pleased to know that this model has the infamous door within a door. A true image of Airstream.

The body of the Airstream is 19ft long or 22ft if you include the hitch.

Two new tyres have been fitted and it even comes with the original awning and poles.

Exterior

As you walk around this Airstream, it becomes very apparent that no stone has been left un-turned in ensuring that this trailer is presented at its absolute best. The iconic aluminium reflects beautifully in the sunlight and looks nothing short of fantastic. Those of you whom appreciate good bodywork will be pleased to know that this Airstream has been sympathetically restored and appears to be in good condition.

The steel which surrounds the tow bar looks excellent with no signs of corrosion that we noticed. This condition extends to the rear lights that operate the brakes and indicators. The lenses are clear and bright and are showing no signs of fading from sunlight or old age, that we noticed. The cowling around the back of the vehicle looks to be in good shape and should you get a flat, there is a replacement spare at the rear of the trailer.

The overall exterior condition of this Airstream is stunning and you would be hard pushed to tell that this was built in the early 60s. As far as flaws go, there really is nothing of note that we’re aware of. The badging found around the exterior is in good shape and whilst does show minor signs of patina, we feel this adds character to the already iconic trailer.

Interior

This is really where the trailer comes to life. Whilst not appearing huge on the outside, the inside opens up and really offers a great deal of space, think Tardis and you’re on the right kind of lines. The inside is finished in a white, grey and blue colour scheme that not only looks clean but offers the sense that there is a lot more space inside.

The floor has been finished in a vinyl wood lino that matches the walls and storage spaces. As you enter the interior, you are greeted by two bench seats one at the rear of the trailer and one to the left as you enter. Both are finished in a blue fabric. Both cushions on both of the benches to our knowledge are in good condition and are showing no signs of rips, tears or any deterioration. This area of the trailer is where the majority of the time is spent and really looks like a lovely place to spend time.

Unsurprisingly, both benches transform into beds that are wide enough for two people, so essentially this Airstream Safari can sleep 4 people fairly comfortably. On the inside it features fly screens for the windows.

Directly in front you have the kitchen area. The kitchen offers a wide variety of amenities, such as a sink with running water, a fridge and most obviously, a cooker which is perfect for knocking up a Sunday roast should you feel that this is something you want to do. We must make you aware that at the moment the neither the fridge, cooker and heater work as the gas regulator that operates them, needs to be replaced and the units recommissioned.

Moving towards the front of the Airstream you will find bathroom with a shower, sink and toilet.

Mechanical

Given the age of the Airstream you would assume that it is starting to show signs of corrosion. You will be pleased to hear that we saw no signs of that. It would appear that the Airstream has been protected and all elements that are exposed to the ground are looking to be in good condition.

History

One previous UK owner, purchased, unrestored in 2018. The current vendor has carried out a restoration over the last five years ensuring that the Airstream is in the best condition possible, with receipts and paperwork documenting various work and replacement parts.

We are informed that after the restoration was completed the vendor spent roughly 120 hours polishing the trailer, so that it looks its absolute best.

Summary

Given the year of production, we think this Airstream Safari is in great shape. It presents well and as far as we can see is clean, tidy and free from any corrosion.

It has quite obviously been looked after, with little expense spared in ensuring that it looks just as it did back in ’63. It has all the vital equipment you should need to last you when you’re out exploring the great plains or hiking through the Alps, heck, dare we even say you could live life comfortably off the grid for a while, should you chose to do so.

We estimate this vehicle to fetch between £23,000 - £30,000 in auction.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular car is located with the vendor in Bury St. Edmunds, United Kingdom. To arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.

About this auction

Seller

Private: Airstream


Viewings Welcome

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and is strictly by appointment. To book one in the diary, please get in contact.

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