Highlights

Previously restored to bare metal in 1990
Straight body—great base for a restoration or conversion
Imported from Italy in October 1989, family owned since
Mechanically maintained to a high level, underside in extremely good shape

The Appeal

the Volkswagen Beetle is generally regarded as ranking highly on the shortlist for being one of the most famous and popular motoring icons worldwide. Its history is widely known, with its sixty plus years of production producing over 21 million of these “bugs.” The initial design dates back to the early 1930s, when Ferdinand Porsche – yes, that Porsche – was instructed to design and develop a “People's Car.” With its inevitable evolution over the years, the basic concept was never hugely altered; contributing to its continued success with spare parts readily available even today.

In 1949, automotive contract manufacturer Karmann introduced a convertible version of the beetle. More than just a chopped and fitted top, the car underwent many changes to bolster the rigidity and chassis strength. Production of the cabriolet ended in 1980 after having produced around 331,000+ convertible beetles in total.

This previously restored example is an excellent opportunity to own the icon, and it’s presented in a classic cream colour with complimentary white interior and navy blue soft-top. Still in good shape from its 33-year-old restoration, this bug just needs a bit of TLC to get cleaned up and shining bright, and is a great base for a restoration project or can be driven and enjoyed as-is.

The History and Paperwork

V5c present and current
MOT and tax exempt
Latest MOT in 2017, no advisories
Family owned since importation from Italy in 1989
Underwent full bare metal restoration in 1990
Receipts present for restoration parts, labour performed by VW/Audi specialists
- New wings all around
- Front and rear valance
- New bumpers fitted
- New Headlights,
- Towbar electrics redone
- New running boards
- New seals all around
- New clutch
- New heat exchanger
- New 1600 engine
- Full respray following welding to fit new body panels
New canvas navy blue soft top hood fitted in 2001
Original 1200 engine replaced with 1600 before importation, has since been fitted with more recent 1600 during restoration in 1990
Alarm and immobiliser fitted but currently untested
Owner was an active member of VW owner’s club GB and took part in numerous rallies
Vehicle was officially registered in year 2000 Beetle Census (Certificate no 1267) and has won an award as pictured
Tool kit and various spare parts, various memorabilia, and manuals as pictured come with vehicle

The Interior

Interior is in good overall condition, but some wear and signs of use present
Owner states electronics working as they should, with exception of ignition switch currently works but needs replacement; spare part supplied with sale
Seats in usable condition, just needs a deep clean
Driver’s seat rear shows small tear, 2-3 inches as pictured
Rubber floor mats could do with replacing, but all currently present
Some adhesive marks and potential corrosion underneath the rear seat, see photos
Dashboard in good shape, could use some tidying
Wires could be tidied under dash, but no electrical issues to report from current owner
Gauges and buttons in great condition, and owner states all functioning correctly
Steering wheel in good condition with some fading from the sun
Soft top headlining vinyl in overall good condition with some marks visible as expected for the age, will shine after a deep cleaning
Soft top hood in excellent condition, having been replaced in 2001, only minor marks on exterior
Convertible mechanics in excellent condition as well, operation is smooth and effortless
Driver’s side rear window handle/winder missing; required to roll down rear window
Front boot in overall great condition, with no signs of corrosion present

The Exterior

Overall straight body
Trim and bumpers in good condition
Brightwork in great shining condition
Glass in excellent condition with some marks to be expected for the age
Rubbers and seals in great condition and seemingly all present
Light lenses in bright condition with no signs of sun fading
Exterior paint overall good shape, last painted in 1990, some marks and scuffs present but only adds to the character
Tires in good condition with plenty of tread
Wheels in good condition, but some small signs of corrosion present around edges, brightwork shining
Underside in overall spectacular condition for the age, very little sign of corrosion present

The Mechanics

Engine bay is in above average condition for the age, no corrosion seen
Drive belt in good condition
Maintenance up to date, owner states no known issues
Owner states 1600 engine and transmission runs smoothly and has strong acceleration
Owner states brakes may benefit from bleeding as they seem slightly weak at this time
Owner states suspension works as good or better than when new
Underside rubbers, boots, and bushings in great shape, ready for more miles
No smoke or strange noises observed, engine sounds healthy and ready to run

Summary

Whether you have big plans to restore it to showroom quality, or simply drive it around town, this Karmann Beetle is an excellent opportunity to get your own piece of automobile history! With just a little TLC, you’ve got an excellent runner with a great condition soft-top, just begging to be driven and enjoyed for years to come.

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.

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