Description
1978 Volkswagen 1303 Karmann Cabriolet
Original UK RHD example with VW dating certificate confirming matching chassis and engine numbers as it left the factory.
In its original colour of Colibri Green metallic paint with Grid Scar parchment leatherette upholstery.
Manufactured on 10. 3. 1978, delivered on 13. 3. 1978 and first registered on 19. 4. 1978.
I bought this lovely matching numbers Bug in April 2022. At the time, the long term owner was living on the Isle of Wight and his son sold the car on his behalf as he was no longer able to drive. I was told that this had been the daily drive of his mum, a midwife. At some time in the past the car has been subject to a restoration and full repaint. Unfortunately the old gentleman did not have any paperwork to back this up so I cannot say where or when this happened. The condition of the car speaks for itself and you will not be disappointed. There are a couple of stone chips but nothing serious and easily fixable if you want perfection.
Current mileage is 43759 but I cannot verify this and it likely to have gone around the clock!
In my ownership I have spent over £4000 on work at Dream Day Kampers in Marchwood near Southampton. They are a dedicated VW air cooled specialist. The schedule of their work is included in one of the invoices amongst the photos. At their suggestion I subsequently sourced a reconditioned genuine German Solex carburetor, (as opposed to whatever it was that was fitted and impossible to set up) and had it set up at my local garage. It now starts first time and ticks over perfectly once warmed up.
I also had the hood inner liner replaced as the original had deteriorated. This involved the removal of the hood from the frame, making a new liner and fitting it between the inner and outer hood fabrics. These original hoods have been replaced with mohair hoods in many cases but in my opinion the original is far superior.
When I bought the car it was fitted with a set of wider chrome wheels which looked good at the time. I was given the original wheels and I have had them blasted and powder coated and the car now sits on its original wheels. In my opinion the ride is much better with these smaller tyres, lighter and more precise steering and less road noise. I will include the chrome wheels in the sale, (the tyres have lots of tread on them as I don’t think they were used much after fitting).
Recent work includes a full service and an MOT in February 2027 which included some work on the electrics to the front headlights.
As you can see from the MOT mileage I am not getting out in it very often so I have now decided it is time to pass it on to a new keeper. Please come and take a look or contact me and I will endeavour to answer any questions. This is a great little car and always gets lots of attention and admiring comments, fun to drive and sure to put a smile on your face.
