Would You Drive It? 1963 Volkswagen Space Buggy

Barn Finder Santa spotted this 1963 Volkswagen “Moon Buggy,” describing it as “just plain weird.” That seems like a fair assessment considering its styling, although we could also use the word “unique” if we wish to be diplomatic. It carries many of the hallmarks of a custom build performed in the 1960s, and appears to be a solid project candidate that is undeniably affordable. I must say a big thank you to Santa for spotting the Moon Buggy listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Lisle, Illinois. The seller set their price at $4,800, and since it has been on the market for a few weeks, I wonder whether they might now be flexible on that figure.

Bruce Meyers effectively defined the Dune Buggy when he released the Manx in 1964. He demonstrated that by discarding the steel body from a Volkswagen Beetle and fitting a lightweight fiberglass body, the result was a vehicle that offered unparalleled motoring fun. Many manufacturers followed the same basic plan, but there were also enthusiasts producing home-built vehicles with a distinctive appearance. I suspect that might be the case with what the seller describes as a 1963 Moon Buggy. They confirm that it features a typical fiberglass body on a Volkswagen Beetle chassis. The body is handmade, featuring such distinctive touches as swing-out side windows and roof panels that raise to improve access. I’m not sold on the window concept, because they would have to remain closed when the vehicle is in action. Therefore, with a closed cabin and zero ventilation, life aboard the Moon Buggy could become uncomfortable on hot days. There is scope to remove the windows, which I would do. The fiberglass looks quite good, with no signs of major cracks or other problems. The interior shot provides a clear view of the floors, which look rock-solid. The Silver paint shade and contrasting graphics come straight from the 1960’s custom car playbook. Since any cosmetic imperfections are relatively minor, the new owner could preserve the paint as a fitting tribute to the era in which this classic was built. Rounding out the exterior is a set of spotless Mooneyes spun aluminum wheel covers, further adding to the vehicle’s distinctive look.

The Moon Buggy’s interior is effectively a blank canvas. The side panels feature Black vinyl trim, and there is a dash with a few gauges. The steering column is intact, topped by a sports wheel. However, there are no seats or carpet. The vehicle’s dimensions suggest the creator used an unmodified Beetle platform, making carpet easy to locate. A set of sports seats would be a cheap addition, and installing those items would make the interior serviceable. The seller indicates that the engine is currently out of the vehicle, and its size and specifications are unclear. It may require a rebuild, but it is worth noting that the Buggy is street legal. Therefore, returning it to active service might not be difficult or expensive.

I know that this 1963 Volkswagen Moon Buggy won’t appeal to everyone, and I can’t decide whether or not I genuinely like it. The seller’s decision to describe it as a Moon Buggy is interesting because it was the name commonly assigned to the Lunar Rover that NASA first deployed during the Apollo 15 mission. The Lunar Rover remains one of the most expensive vehicles ever produced, with the four eventually built by Boeing costing the equivalent of $302 million today. Our featured vehicle is considerably cheaper, and its overall condition would allow the new owner to return it to active service while preserving the exterior as a tribute to a different era. Would you do that, or would the lure of fresh paint prove irresistible?