Over six million VW Beetles were sold over more than 60 years of production, so it’s fair to say it’s one of the all-time classic car icons.
Today, there’s a whole thriving scene built up around the legendary little car, from modified examples through to beautifully preserved or restored originals. This one falls into the latter category – it’s a lovely 1500 model, a genuine UK-spec car and not an import, and original down to its yellow reflective rear numberplate.
It had a replacement engine fitted in 2020 as the original was worn, but the mileage appears genuine from what records are available. The car was bought seven years ago by the vendor’s late husband and was used for various VW and classic events but is now for sale due to bereavement.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Original service books and handbook
Lots of bills and invoices
Photographic restoration record
Previous MOTs back to 1993
Service and repair manuals
Receipt for Silver Engine from TEC, a well-known air-cooled specialist
Tax and MOT exempt
THE INTERIOR
Black vinyl upholstery in excellent order
Original push-button radio (requires renovation)
Very good black vinyl door cards
Original steering wheel in good order
Single dial dash
Tailored fabric mats
Some spares included in luggage area
Completely original and unmodified
THE EXTERIOR
Original white paint with localised repairs over the years
Appears solid underneath
All original chrome and badges
Brand new rear tyres and front tyres in good condition
Accessory Perspex wind deflector
Overall very smart order with only a few minor marks to paint and panels, no notable damage
Some pitting to chrome on headlight bezels
Passenger side door mirror included if required by next owner
THE MECHANICS
Replacement Silver Engine from The Engine Centre (TEC) in Kent, supplied and fitted in 2020
Drives well with no known issues
Good maintenance record
Repaired gearbox fitted in 1999, less than 6,000 miles ago
Many new parts fitted by previous owner, including dynamo, exhaust and clutch kit
Recent new ignition leads
Starts and runs beautifully with no apparent issues and distinctive air-cooled flat-four engine note
Brakes operate without fault
Idiosyncrasy jumps out of 4th gear at speed but drivable
SUMMARY
This is a truly charming and extremely well-loved car that the vendor openly admits will be a reluctant and emotional sale, but she’s decided the Beetle needs a new home that will show it the same love and care that she and her husband did and keep it preserved and well cared for future generations.
It’s a fabulous example of a Beetle that hasn’t been messed around with and is presented in lovely overall order. It’s not perfect, but it’s a very good, unmolested example that deserves to remain that way.
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.
