Recognised and loved the world over as a timeless motoring icon, the VW Beetle certainly deserves its place in motoring history. With production only ceasing in 2019, it’s a car that has stood the test of time well. Designed by Ferdinand Porsche some 80 years ago to be affordable, practical and reliable, back then they may not have anticipated it to be quite the timeless car it turned out to be. It’s basic design and the mechanical simplicity gained instant popular approval, with VW selling more than 15 million units worldwide.
The VW Beetle is as popular now as it ever was and enjoys a strong cult following amongst enthusiasts around the world, with the Karmann cabriolet being one of the more sought-after models.
Not much history is known about this LHD example other than it was imported from California in 2011 where it had obviously had an easy life in the sunshine as the recorded low mileage and current overall good solid condition would suggest.
It is believed to be mostly original with little or no signs of rust or decay thanks to its original climate. Since importation it has hardly been used, being kept garaged and covered with the occasional ‘run round the block’ just to keep things running nicely.
The previous owner had bought and kept the car with a view for providing his daughter with the perfect 18th birthday present. However, as is frequently the case these days, when the time came she had other ideas and rejected her father’s choice, opting instead for a T4 campervan.
There are various receipts for the odd bit of work done here and there but this is by no means extensive as very little has been done to the car since importation.
The V5 is present, and the car comes with two sets of both door and ignition keys.
The Interior
The simple and functional interior is showing a few signs of age but overall, it looks original and in good shape. The seats all look good, still providing good support, and the few controls and switches all seem to be working as they should. The soft top internally is in good condition and opens and closes nicely and easily.
There are a few signs of surface rust around the tops of the rear wings that can be viewed in the pictures but nothing drastic to report.
At some time before its importation the car was treated to a respray in its original striking yellow and although there are a few imperfections to be found in the paintwork if you look hard enough, the overall finish is in great shape.
There is a small indentation and slight paint cracking in the bonnet around the handle, which has been caused by someone in the past closing the bonnet rather too enthusiastically.
Underneath looks solid and original and some of the chrome door handles and bumpers are beginning to show signs of slight pitting. The rubber seals all seem to be in good condition with little or no signs of cracking.
It is believed that at some point the external fabric of the convertible hood has been replaced along with the clear plastic rear window.
Mechanically there are no obvious issues to report with the engine starting well and running smoothly and cleanly. Gearbox and clutch all function smoothly as do the brakes.
The Appeal
The air-cooled VW Beetle is great fun to drive and is a very affordable and usable classic, being cheap to run and maintain. It’s the kind of car that stands the test of time extremely well and now that production has stopped, they continue to be a great investment.
The 1303 1600cc Karmann Cabriolet is a very collectable Beetle and this unmolested imported example will be high on many people’s wish list. With the fact that very little that needs doing to this car all you need to do is drop the hood down and start making great classic motoring memories for this and many summers to come.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the sellers discretion.
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1976 Volkswagen Beetle Karman
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