The Volkswagen Beetle needs no introduction. It’s the best-selling car ever built on a single platform and one of the most influential vehicles of the 20th century, going well beyond its humble transport brief to become a beloved counterculture icon. The ‘Bug’ was particularly popular with hippies and surfers, and the ‘Cal-look’ continues to endure around the world.
 
This 1971 Beetle 1200 has been skilfully modified and smartened up inside and out. It now runs a Limebug ‘Revolution’ cantilever air ride system that lets you adjust ride height and stance, backed by suspension modifications including a narrowed front beam and dropped spindles. The 1.2-litre engine was reportedly rebuilt shortly before the car last changed hands in April 2021, dressed up in chrome, and converted to charge via alternator. The seller reports that it starts and drives “just as it should”. The car comes with a spare engine and a spare gearbox, plus assorted other spare parts, and a folder of history.
 
Outside, the body has been resprayed in BMW A32 Bronze metallic paint. The bodywork still presents well, though the seller notes some areas of paint reaction and minor rust in localised spots. The seller states that the floors and heater channels are in good nick. The car rolls on iconic Fuchs alloy wheels, fitted with tyres the seller describes as being in “very good” nick. The car has been garaged throughout the seller’s ownership.
 
Inside, the interior is tidy, with what the seller describes as “period-correct” white seat covers and a carpet that was reportedly replaced by the previous owner. Other touches include machined metal window winders, Sparco aluminium pedals and a vintage-style stereo head unit.
 
The seller says, “This Beetle puts a smile on your face, and on anybody it passes, as you drive it. It creates a great sense of nostalgia.” This characterful, beautifully presented and thoughtfully modified example of ‘the bug’ is now ready to bring joy to a new owner.
 

 

BEFORE YOU BUY 

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

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions. 

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. 

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is” basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance, and it’s customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. 

✓ VAT is included in the buyer’s fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do, so we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence. 

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic, and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status, so it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle. 

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection 

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes, so it’s worth checking beforehand. It is the bidder’s responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase. 

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.