1978 Volkswagen Beetle 1303LS Cabriolet
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Will be sold with the number plate YUE259S
Highlights
- Long-term family ownership
- Numbers matching with original interior
- Stunning metallic bronze paintwork and cream interior
- Impressive paperwork file with plenty of VW paraphernalia
The Appeal
Few manufacturers can emulate the success of the Type 1 Volkswagen Beetle, with over 15 million cars produced in Germany since their launch in 1938. The Cabriolet models are far rarer with only 330,000 built in collaboration with Karmann. The Beetle was continuously tweaked over its lifespan, with one of the most significant upgrades arriving in 1971 with the introduction of the larger ‘Super Beetle’ which boasted extra luggage space in the frunk thanks to the development of Golf-style MacPherson strut front suspension.
This 1303LS - the 1303 marking the larger engine, and the LS reflecting its new, luxurious trim - has been cherished by one family for many years and looks stunning in its bronze metallic paintwork. It’s been carefully restored over the last 20 years, while maintaining a beautiful patina. It’s a rare matching numbers example, with the 70's upgrades keeping it capable on modern roads, without losing its essential character.
With such an extensive number of VW specialists in the UK, you can get virtually all parts for these models making it one of the most practical classics to run, too.
With such an extensive number of VW specialists in the UK, you can get virtually all parts for these models making it one of the most practical classics to run, too.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered in 1989, and has been kept in the same family since
- Car has always been garaged, with a regular maintenance schedule
- Odometer indicates 78,275 miles on a five-figure odometer
- With less than 13,672 miles since 1996, it appears this could be an authentic mileage
- MOT expires in April 2023, however this MOT was clear with zero advisories, with less than 200 miles driven since
- Recently renovated at VW specialists Bughaus in 2022
- Paperwork file includes:
- Extensive selection of invoices
- A small collection of MOT certificates
- V5 document
- An extensive selection of Beetle books
The Interior
- Caramel vinyl interior with the 70s 'Luxury trim'
- Naturally, of course, this is a Beetle - don't expect a Bentley!
- Attracted padded dashboard with a large central combined dial
- All instruments and equipment looks to be in good order with no major faults
- Upholstery is in good order with light patina, but no rips or tears
- Doorcards are in excellent order both front and rear
- New grey carpets have been neatly fitted
- Upgraded Mountney steering wheel fitted
- Removable Blaupunkt ACD9431 CD radio
The Exterior
- Paintwork has been resprayed to a high standard
- Chrome and brightwork all looks in good order
- Grey softop appears to be in good condition
- Features a heated rear screen, part of the luxury trim
- All glasswork is in good order and has been resealed
- Headlight and taillight lenses are uncracked
- Bodywork appears tightly knitted with no large gaps
- Strengthed Ghia floorplans look solid and have been undersealed
- Minor paint touch-up beneath engine decklid
- Wheels were clearly powder-coated during previous restoration, and look to be in good order
- Five matching Maxxis MA-701 tyres in 165/80-15 size (dated 2010) have ample tread
- Personal number plate is being retained by current owner
The Mechanics
- Powered by the venerable and straightforward 1600 cc H4 engine
- 4-speed manual transmission
- Engine is original and looks well maintained
- Air hoses and pulleys look recent
- Bosch blue coil and plug leads appear fairly new
- Rear engine bay is clean and well kept with no major faults
- Car wasn’t started on photoshoot but is said to run well
- Spares package supplied with car as well as car cover
Summary
This 1303 Cabriolet looks superb with its unusual bronze metallic paintwork. A cherished family car, it's been kept cosseted and well maintained, leading to a superb low mileage example. With its rare Cabriolet format and luxury trim, it's sure to be a treat for even the most seasoned Beetle collector.
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.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1978
- Make Volkswagen
- Model Beetle 1303LS Cabriolet
- Colour Bronze
- Odometer 78,275 Miles
- Engine size 1584
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Arnold
- Location Nottinghamshire
- Country United Kingdom
42
bids
- si•••• £15,750 16/04/23
- Ka•••• £15,500 16/04/23
- si•••• £15,250 16/04/23
- ar•••• £15,000 16/04/23
- si•••• £14,750 16/04/23
- ar•••• £14,500 16/04/23
- si•••• £14,250 16/04/23
- Po•••• £14,000 16/04/23
- si•••• £13,750 16/04/23
- Po•••• £13,500 16/04/23
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