You’ll have to act quickly if you’re on the hunt for an air-cooled VW Beetle project, as this 1966 example here on eBay is ending shortly. It looks like a great starting point with an interesting history, as this Bug was purchased new in Germany and then shipped to California where it’s remained ever since. The starting bid is $3,999 and the seller is open to offers.
From the limited photos and description, this seems like a great foundation for a sympathetic restoration. The seller says the second owner is letting the car go due to health issues and doesn’t expect to finish the project. The Beetle supposedly has no rust and an accident-free history, and a dent in the driver’s door is its greatest sin.
The body work does appear solid in photos, along with the chrome bumpers and hubcaps. The Beetle is located in perhaps one of the best climates in the country for classic cars, that being lovely San Diego, CA. Given the high density of military officials stationed or retired there, I wonder if this Beetle came to the USA after a service member’s tour of duty.
I do like these earlier, more svelte Beetles with the thinner bumpers and recessed headlights. Although $3,999 is a high asking price for a listing with zero details about engine or transmission health, it sounds like the seller will play ball – especially as his auction draws to a close with no bidders. I’d offer $2,750 and see where the conversation goes from there; what about you?
While not for me, clean bugs can bring some pretty decent money. $10-15g’s, easy. Or just a nice VW to keep. Don’t think you could go wrong here.
I kind of find it odd that a German-market car would have the US-spec bumpers on it. Changed upon import, perhaps?
If someone chose European delivery — member of the military or vacationer — they were sold a U.S.-spec car. I believe that was true for every manufacturer which offered a program. Don’t know about pre-smog/pre-safety legislation cars, but after about 1967 they were adamant about it.
This looks like a nice car to spiff up. No “California Bug” messes to undo, and a decent little machine when finished. So far, no one else seems to agree….
My 66 was a German market car with U.S. spec bumpers shipped to the States by a military physician. I can’t tell for certain but the front bumper looks aftermarket. Where the overider meets the bumper blade, there looks to be a grommet there. Factory bumpers had no grommets. It may be just a shadow…not sure. This one has the Euro spec tail light (or aftermarket replacement) with the amber signal lens. Last year for 6 volt and only year for the 1300 cc (US) and fluted headlamp lenses. 67 would see the 1500, upright sealbeams and 12 volt electrical system. Being a CA car, the heater channels are most likely decent (rot issue with Type 1’s).
Paid $50 for my 1960 VW when I was 15 years and the engine was in a basket. A 36 horsepower and it cost me $25 to build, the crank kit was the most expensive part $18.75. Prices sure have gone up since 1972. Wouldn’t mind having this one though.
“A dent in the driver’s door is its greatest sin.”
Ummm what door?
Door has been removed and is in primer; will be included with final sale.
I knew it – someone lodged one bid and got it. What a great, great buy.