Photos provided by the vendor
Highlights
- Very original and well presented with period options including Melber alloy wheels and Nardi controls
- Folding canvas roof in good working order and reportedly watertight
- Italian market specific 1200 cc engine
The Appeal
With MacPherson strut front suspension, widened front track, a longer wheelbase and curved windscreen, the 1303 brought the beloved Beetle in line with the performance, safety and cabin space expectations of the early 1970s. Cabriolet versions built by German coachbuilder Karmann proved popular and remain amongst the most desirable Beetles to this day.
Here we have a well presented 1976 Cabriolet that looks to be very original. Sitting on period correct Melber alloy wheels and finished in the pleasing colour combination of black with a cream hood, this Volkswagen is a very usable example that presents really well for its age. Garaged, judiciously maintained and benefiting from ASI registration, we certainly recommend that you consider making this your next classic.
The History and Paperwork
- ASI registered in Italy
- Complete with its Certificate of Historical relevance
- The last technical inspection expired in October 2022 although the vendor states that this will be renewed before the next owner receives the car
- We’re informed that it is garage stored when not in use
- The previous owner kept the car with a mechanic who looked after their entire collection
- No notable mechanical work has been carried out since the vendor acquired it in April 2018 as there have apparently been no faults
The Interior
- Plaid upholstery in very good condition considering its age
- The seats exhibit some light wear, but nothing excessive or indeed any large blemishes
- The vendor points out that the passenger door card pocket has lost its elasticity, but otherwise the door furniture presents well
- No cracks evident to the vinyl dashboard
- Retains its VDO analogue clock
- Desirable period accessory Nardi wheel and gear knob
- Equipped with a removable anti-theft device that prevents the current to reach the engine
- Equipped with a radio and discreet speakers mounted under the dashboard
- Smart grey carpeting with little wear to report
- Carpeted forward boot space in very good, clean order
The Exterior
- Well presented black paintwork with remarkably few blemishes overall
- Sitting upon period Melber alloy wheels which look to be in great shape
- Smart chromework with few notable imperfections
- As a later 1303, the front indicators are set into the bumper rather than perched upon the wing tops
- ‘Elephant’s foot’ rear lights in very good order
- Equipped with stone guards on the leading edge of the rear wings
- The soft top operates well and looks smart, besides a couple of small splits along the leading front edge which only perforates the outer layer, as the vendor says the roof does not leak
- There’s a small dent in the top right-hand corner of the passenger door which has begun to corrode where it has broken the paint
- The floor pans, backbone chassis and heater channels seem in good order when examining the underside
The Mechanics
- 1192 cc four-cylinder air-cooled engine
- Four-speed manual gearbox
- Appears really original and present well inside the engine compartment
- We notice evidence of an oil ooze around the gearbox casing
- Reportedly running well and driving impeccably
- The electrical system is reportedly fully functional
- Easy to use, and reliable during present ownership
- We’re informed that the brakes were replaced by the previous owner and continue to work well
Summary
The 1303 is widely regarded as one of the best driving Beetles and the Cabriolet is just that bit more enjoyable to use when the sun comes out. This is a very smart and really original example, the likes of which we don’t often see.
Whether you’re a seasoned air-cooled aficionado, or else a first-time Beetle buyer, be sure not to miss this excellent opportunity.
Whether you’re a seasoned air-cooled aficionado, or else a first-time Beetle buyer, be sure not to miss this excellent opportunity.
Any questions?
Is there anything else you would like to know?
Feel free to write a message to one of our consigners directly by clicking here!
Feel free to write a message to one of our consigners directly by clicking here!
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
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