Highlights

Matching serial numbers confirmed by the Volkswagen Museum
Extremely original, with several rare additional options
Popular 'oval' model, also equipped with rare pivoting rear windows
Complete mechanical overhaul carried out in April 2024
Period enhancements include original wheel rims
Porsche 356 Attractive patina
Offered with latest parts and labour invoices, MOT and FFVE collector's certificate

The Plus

Some cars are just unbelievably cool. This is one of them. It's exactly the kind of car you'd imagine a Porsche 356 enthusiast driving in the early 60s: this is the Volkswagen Beetle 'oval', sitting on a magnificent set of authentic 1960 Kronnprinz KPZ Porsche wheels, shod with period-style Heidenau 5-60x15 tyres.

It has also been subtly lowered at the front, which traditionally sits high due to the location of the engine at the rear.

Apart from that, this is a particularly original example of the marque, with matching numbers confirmed by the Volkswagen Museum, including the original 'split case' gearbox. Original wheels accompany the car should the next owner wish to fit them.

The seller tells us:

"This Beetle was delivered new to Sweden in December 1956. It was found in Belgium in the 2010s, until I bought it in 2024. The Belgian documents are still there. The car is accompanied by the latest parts and labour invoices from the garage, its technical inspection and its FFVE collector's certificate.

The car had a full service in April 2024, including a new braking system, redone pivots, ride height adjustment, rear blades, geometry, and oil changes. (€1,657 spent)."

Having undergone a complete mechanical overhaul in 2024, this Beetle is ready to hit the road with confidence. It is now exempt from French MOT, registered with a Carte Grise de Collection.

For air-cooling enthusiasts, an 'Oval' Beetle is always a great find - especially an example of matching numbers like this with discreet (and easily reversible) period upgrades.

History and documents

Delivered in Sweden in December 1956
Found in Belgium in the 2010s, purchased by the current owner in February 2024 from a fan of the marque
Registered in France with a Carte Grise de Collection
Matching numbers
The car is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from the Volkswagen Museum which attests to the model numbers and options.
Has retained its original parts; currently only the wheels and a height adjustment at the front differ from the 1957 model (the original rims are supplied with the car)
Also offered with Belgian documents
FFVE collector's certificate present
Accompanied by the latest garage parts and labour invoices
Includes a technical inspection valid until June 2026 (now exempt as a pre-1960 vehicle)
1957 service manual and mechanical advice in glove box

Condition

Kept dry in a garage
Bodywork in very good original condition with age-appropriate patina
Exterior repainted a long time ago in original L41 black, having aged evenly
The interior sheet metal does not appear to have been repainted
Small hole in rear spoiler panel, non-structural (pictured)
The floor is said to be solid with no corrosion; waxed early in its life to protect it from Scandinavian winter conditions
Rare rear pivoting windows in good working order Original interior including carpets, door skins and appropriate seats
Seats are usable and comfortable, but passenger seat shows signs of wear
Panels show signs of damp and carpets would benefit from replacement
The mohair headliner is fragile, aged and stained but still usable
Fitted with period accessories such as the radio, the storage shelf under the dashboard and the period Saint Christophe badge
Genuine Kronnprinz KPZ Porsche wheels
Heidenau 5-60x15 tyres
Original rims supplied with the car

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Powertrain

1.2-litre (1,192 cc) air-cooled flat engine - 1957 model with 34 bhp
Four-speed 'Split Case' manual gearbox (no synchro for 1st gear)
Manual starter on dashboard
Highly original and beautifully presented engine compartment
Recently overhauled mechanical system, including brakes and running gear: "new braking system, rebuilt pivots, ride height adjustment, rear blades, geometry, and oil changes".
Original mechanics; the seller notes that the brakes and engine can be upgraded if required
Front suspension slightly lowered
The seller states that the engine responds well and that this vehicle drives really well
Capable of 90 km/h and up to 110 km/h on open roads

BEFORE BUYING

This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a professional seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic's terms and conditions.

✓ We ask that a non-refundable fee is paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your bid is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for specific fees.

✓ This vehicle is "sold as is", on an "as is, where is" basis , and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are for illustrative purposes only and it is customary to carry out a full vehicle inspection prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or tender price, as specified in the advert.

✓ We want the transaction to go as smoothly as you do, which is why UK-registered cars and motorbikes offered for sale on Car & Classic are HPI-checked to ensure they have no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and are not financially pledged, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ Buyers are responsible for the collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third party transport company who can assist you. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected].