With a lifespan of 65 years riding on the same platform, the Volkswagen Beetle is one of those cars that has truly earned its place in history as a cultural icon. The Bug also scored high marks for reliability, plus it was relatively easy to work on, so it’s easy to understand why the VW Bug remains so desirable. Those who wanted a few more perks could opt for the Super Beetle, such as this 1979 model here on Craigslist in Gresham, Oregon. It’s also a convertible, which is reluctantly being let go due to the owner facing some financial hardships, with the asking price set at $10,995. Our thanks go out to reader Rocco B. for spotting this one and sending in the tip!
A couple of notable extras stepping up to the Super Beetle provided were a bit of extra trunk space up front, along with an upgraded suspension underneath. The seller mentions that this one features an all-original body color, which I’m guessing may not indicate factory original paint, as this VW is mentioned as having a rebuilt title. Even if this one’s been repaired, I’m not spotting any obvious blunders in the panels, and the black finish is reflecting a deep shine. The trim also appears to be in very nice condition, as does the canvas top covering, and those aftermarket wheels work especially well in this particular application.
Unfortunately, no photo from the engine compartment is shown, but if the original component is still present, it’s a 1600cc fuel-injected 4-cylinder. This engine only produced 48 horsepower, but having a 4-speed manual transmission will certainly make this one fun to drive. Another interesting tidbit here is that ’79 was the last year an air-cooled Super Beetle was sold in the United States before water cooling took over, so that’ll be some ice-breaking information to share when folks are admiring your ragtop at auto gatherings.
The interior appears well-preserved, with no visible tears in any of the seats and just a few minor ripples on the door panels. A couple of other nice touches are the wooden accents on the dash, a quartz clock, and what appears to be a factory AM/FM radio still present. My first impression is that this one is a solid driver, but before getting overly excited, I’d probably at least inquire about why the title status has been listed as rebuilt. Any thoughts to share on this 1979 Volkswagen Super Beetle convertible?
Seems the older models from the 60’s get all the attention for their obvious simplicity. I do seem to recall some front suspension issues with the Super Beetle but I’m sure nothing unsurmountable. And, after owning one black car I swore I would never own another. But, all that being said, the black on black on black on this one does give it, dare I say it, an air of elegance. She is without a doubt a looker. And last in line is something to talk about as well. I can see myself in this and parking next to anything out there… About as classy as a Beetle can be.
Seems the older models from the 60’s get all the attention for their obvious simplicity. I do seem to recall some front suspension issues with the Super Beetle but I’m sure nothing unsurmountable. And, after owning one black car I swore I would never own another. But, all that being said, the black on black on black on this one does give it, dare I say it, an air of elegance. She is without a doubt a looker. And last in line is something to talk about as well. I can see myself in this and parking next to anything out there… About as classy as a Beetle can be.
Oops… Sorry.
Very nice looking Beetle. The body and black paint job look top shelf in the pictures. Very nice interior too. The big concern for me is that Title.
With the attitude of insurance companies nowadays they will total a car for a mashed fender. No more “real” outside adjusters that actually look at a car, they look at photos and guess at repair cost. They often overestimate repairs then total the car. I’ve had this happen with company vehicles more than once. Totaled, retained and repaired for 30 to 40 percent less than their estimate.
Ran into this problem with the insurance company with a simple issue over matching paint color. They supposedly guaranteed the repair for lifetime but the paint didn’t match on 2 attempts. So they totalled the car paid me I kept the car and issued me a salvage title. Then jacked my rates up.
Rebuilt title only hurts resale value. Insurance company could have totaled it for relatively little damage. Lost a good car to a minor collision, their insurance came in with cost to repair excided value. I wanted to fix the car but would have had to dig into my pocket. So best to inspect it and look again, might be fun car to own.
Oh the car was a 2nd gen RX-7 I just put together with a fresh motor, clutch and some assorted parts to freshen the interior. Distracted drivers….
Hmm… Still listed. I wonder if there’s more going on here than meets the eye. Unless it is the salvage title. Sure looks nice from where I sit.
I wonder if these later convertibles are getting cheaper? There was recently a very nice driver quality one on BaT that sold below $10k. I think I would have bought it if I had been following the end of that auction.
Where are all the German car / Hitler car haters?
In your head ?
This looks like a nice car for a reasonable price. Had a ’64 and and a ’72 convert. I loved those guys but whenever I see one I remember freezing my a** off every winter.
Big John, now you know why the Germans drink warm beer.
These bugs in all black were named epilogue edition
Not a single engine pic, or mention if it runs and drives. Or a spare tire well pic where evidence of an accident is easy to see. Or, the floorpans, a leaky convertible’s lowest point for water to collect. Visually, the car looks to be sitting slightly tall, maybe aftermarket shocks. Someone did a nice detail job but without more info I’d treat it like a pig in lipstick, especially with a rebuilt title. Often when you have to sell a car due to finances some maintenance and repair shortcuts are taken. The price is below average, maybe a reflection of finances, but maybe those shortcuts.
I bought a brand new, Poppy Red convertible in 1960. The price? $2150.00. I loved that car, but I did get rid of it after I rolled it.
When VW increased the engine displacement to 1600 the head studs vibrated themselves loose from the block. I seem to remember the fix was to reduce the stud diameter to cut down on harmonic vibration.
I thought the 1979 fuel injected engine had 65 HP ??
I’ve always been a VW Beetle fan for durability and eazy maintenance. And the Super Beetle is all that plus class.l know I can’t afford an air cooled 911. But I’ll buy this beautiful Super Beetle,use my imagination and love it.
My friend had a 1979 Super Beetle, Yellow with a white interior and top. I could have had it for $3,000.00, but I was getting married and couldn’t afford it at the time. Too bad.
This is visually appealing, but I agree with other comments wanting to know about the rebuilt title, as well as engine bay and underside pictures.
Too bad about the marriage or the car?
Could you post engine and frunk area please.
Your request Steve would have to be made to the seller on craigslist. Barnfinds don’t have any control beyond that.