The Volkswagen (as it was originally named - Beetle came later and began as a nickname) was the first car produced by VW and with 21,529,464 units produced between 1938 and 2003 makes it both the longest running and most produced car in the world. 

The origins of the Beetle are still controversial with designs by both Ferdinand Porsche and Mercedes-Benz claiming to be the originals. However the dispute over the origins had little effect on the manufacturing success of the Volkswagen, post WWII the need for an affordable family car in Germany was very high and the Volkswagen was the perfect car for the job.

Whilst there have been many improvements over the years as automotive technology has improved, the essential design has remained the same. Rear air cooled engine with rear wheel drive mounted in a distinctive looking body the Beetle is one of the most recognisable cars in the world. The later models included the 1500 engine which was a big improvement over the smaller engine alternatives.

The current owner bought the car in 2010 from South West Splits in Exeter, a VW specialist, who themselves purchased the car from the original owner in Totnes in 2009. 

The current owner then kept the car stored indoors for a few years before undertaking extensive refurbishment that is detailed below. An avid VW enthusiast, the current owner has several vehicles in the workshop and has decided to sell this beetle to try and regain some space to allow him to work on the others.

Whilst there isn’t much in the way of paperwork, it does come with the original owners manual and the current owner has images detailing most of the work such as the respray along with invoices.

 

The interior is in very good condition throughout, with the seats, carpets, door cards and dashboard all presenting very well. With all original fittings and little wear visible it’s an interior any VW aficionado will appreciate, it even has the classic Beetle air tight seal when the doors are closed. 

The quality of the interior combined with the fantastic exterior and mechanics are a testament to just how well this car has been looked after.

The exterior is in excellent condition and benefits from a full body off respray in the original Zenith Blue which looks absolutely fantastic. The paintwork is immaculate as the car hasn't really been used since the respray around nine years ago. 

All of the brightwork is original, and whilst there is the occasional small amount of tarnishing, there isn’t anything that couldn’t be taken care of with some polish. The wheels were also fully reconditioned at the same time as the respray and the whole car looks fantastic and will make an impression wherever it goes. 

The current owner as a VW enthusiast has ensured any work that has been needed to make the car mechanically faultless has been done, whilst also ensuring originality. The work includes a new Sachs clutch, new wheel cylinders, master cylinder and pipes alongside a full body off respray, floor pans shot blasted and painted, and shot blasted wheels with new genuine center caps and tires.

The car starts easily from cold with no hesitation and the 1500 engine sounds absolutely gorgeous. Everything works exactly as it should from the automatic choke to all of the electrics this car appears to be faultless. This is one of those cars we are always looking for; great condition throughout, all original and ready to drive.

The Beetle might be the most produced car of all time, but examples this good, especially of the much sought after 1500 are hard to come by. The respray and reconditioned wheels make this car look almost new and with all genuine original parts it’s a fantastic opportunity for anyone who loves these cars. 

The Volkswagen was originally designed to provide an affordable car for a nation and evolved into one of the most successful and iconic cars of all time. With an instantly recognizable shape and styling and a distinctive sound the 1500 provides both the looks and a great driving experience that any true petrolhead can appreciate. 

With only three previous owners, an almost immaculate finish and in fantastic mechanical condition, this Beetle won’t be around for long; get bidding now for a chance to own this fantastic car.