1997 Volkswagen Beetle with Rollback Sunroof
Highlights
- Only 42,988 miles from new
- Smart two-tone paintwork and cream interior
- Extremely rare ‘rollback’ factory electric sunroof
- UK registered from new and RHD
- Only six registered keepers
- MOT to May 2025 with no concerns to report
The Appeal
Mexicans took the Beetle to their hearts and called it ‘Vocho.’ That it endured there long after German production ended gave enthusiasts a chance to keep buying modernised versions.
This car arrived in the UK as a new car in 1997 and was converted to RHD. As well as the useful improvements applied to these final cars - like the fuel-injected 1,600cc engine - this one has the exceptionally rare and desirable factory ‘rollback’ electric sunroof.
Now showing just 69,183 kms (42,988 miles) it has been looked after by its six keepers. The previous one applied the distinctive two-tone colour scheme, chromed Fuch-style alloys and uprated sports interior.
The current keeper has used it sparingly and garage-stored it when not in use. That explains the long MOT to May 2025, which the vendor tells us means there are ‘no concerns.’ These final Beetles are very usable. With its neat specification and clever folding roof, this one is particularly appealing.
History and Paperwork
- First UK registered 1st July 1997
- Imported new from Mexico according to seller
- Converted to RHD
- 5 previous registered keepers
- Current keeper since July 2023
- North Ireland MOT valid until 3rd May 2025 with no reported advisories
- Serviced annually before MOT with certificates dating back to May 2019
- Bought from a private seller in Leicester in July 2023
- Two-tone paintwork, Fuchs-style alloys and sports interior fitted by previous keeper
- Fitted with a MPH speed and KM odometer showing 69,183 kms (42,988 miles)
- Always stored in a dry, underground car park during current keeper’s ownership
The Condition
- Repainted in two-tone green and cream by previous seller
- Removable door decals as shown
- Paintwork said to be in very good condition with few signs of use
- Due to age and mileage buyers should reasonably expect some light aging
- Bodywork said to be in very good condition
- We are told of a small bubble to bodywork but not immediately visible in photos
- Underside reported to be in good condition with ‘no concerns’ on current MOT according to seller
- Fitted with chrome bumpers which show light ageing according to seller
- Upgraded to Fuchs-style chromed alloy wheels in good order with Michelin tyres
- Bodywork is solid with no rattles reported and presents well
- Very rare factory-fitted ‘rollback’ sunroof with electric operation, all working correctly
- Interior seating and steering wheel in good condition with general wear and tear
- Cream interior with uprated sports front seats and front and rear seatbelts
- New radio with Bluetooth fitted
- Seller advises that the car could be improved further by fitting new carpet mats
The Mechanics
- Reliable and usefully powerful 1,600cc fuel injected VW engine
- 4spd manual gearbox
- Passed Northern Ireland MOT with no concerns according to seller
- Reported to run smoothly with good acceleration and balance
The vendor tells us:
“The car drives like a dream and always brings a smile to my face every time I drive it. Four tyres are good and does not pull so is perfectly balanced. Being the 1,600cc fuel injected engine this car has a lot of poke and accelerated very smoothly.
“This car drives like an old classic should do. Starts first time, runs smoothly and brings a smile to your face when pottering or gunning it. I always wanted a Beetle as a boy so decided to fulfil that dream.”
BEFORE YOU BUY
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Vehicle specification
- Year 1997
- Make Volkswagen
- Model Beetle
- Colour Multicolour
- Odometer 42,988 Miles
- Engine size 1600
Listing Details
- Seller type Private
- Town Newtownabbey
- Location Northern Ireland
- Country United Kingdom
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