Automotive history is littered with cars that changed the face of motoring, from the Ford Model T to the Mustang. However, the Volkswagen Beetle stands out because over twenty-one million of these little classics prowled the planet’s roads by the time the final one rolled off the line on July 30th, 2003. This 1960 example is said to be a survivor that has accrued only 38,000 miles in sixty-five years. It has no apparent needs beyond a new home, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P for spotting the Beetle listed here on Craigslist in Flowery Branch, Georgia. The seller set their price at $16,500 for this low-mile classic.
Volkswagen followed an evolutionary approach to development during the first few decades of Beetle production. It had a hit on its hands, seeing no reason to reinvent the wheel. It introduced a few styling tweaks in the 1950s, including twice changing the shape and style of the rear window. This Beetle left the factory in early 1960, ordered by its first owner in Jade Green. The seller doesn’t mention a repair or restoration history, suggesting it could be a survivor. Therefore, the minor paint chips and imperfections are acceptable on a vehicle that has seen active service for over six decades. However, the paint shines nicely, and the color is consistent across the exterior. It appears to have avoided the rust that sometimes impacts the floor pans, while the trim appears to be virtually perfect. The glass is crystal clear, and the supplied images suggest that a range of spare parts forms part of this deal.
One aspect of the Beetle that never changed was its drivetrain configuration. Buyers received an air-cooled rear-mounted flat-four that sent its power to the road via a transaxle. An automatic would join the range later, but buyers in 1960 received a four-speed manual. The 1,192cc four produced a relatively modest 36hp, although the Beetle could still cruise happily on the open road for hours at 60mph while returning exceptional fuel economy. That is one reason why these cars became popular in two-car households as daily drivers and grocery grabbers. The seller confirms that this Beetle received a remanufactured date-correct engine in 2020 and was recently fitted with new tires. They believe that the odometer reading is genuine, although it appears they have no verifying evidence. The condition makes it plausible, but there is nothing like having documentation to remove lingering doubts. They supply no information regarding the Volkswagen’s mechanical health, although I see nothing to suggest the news will be anything but positive.
The theme of tidy presentation continues inside this Beetle. Its White and Green “leatherette” upholstered surfaces are free from rips and other issues, while the paint looks crisp and clean. There is no significant wheel wear and no evidence of headliner tears. Affordability was a key consideration in Volkswagen’s Beetle marketing strategy, which is reflected in the interior equipment. Buyers received a heater, but this car lacks the AM radio that was one of the few factory options in 1960.
There was once a period in the 1970s and 1980s when it was possible to buy a Volkswagen Beetle for peanuts. The market was flooded with cars that could be yours for well under $1,000, but those days are a dim memory. They have become highly sought after, and values have climbed as a result. The seller’s price for this 1960 example looks competitive, particularly if the odometer reading is verifiable. Even if it isn’t, the figure remains realistic for a Beetle of this caliber. It has only been on the market for a few hours, and I don’t think they will struggle to find a buyer. Are you tempted to be that person?
My first VW Bug was a 1961. 36 horse power. No synchronizer shifting down to first gear. The 6 volt system always started the car. I could get mine up to 75 MPH. It just took a looong time. These were fine 3 seasons in Iowa. If it was below zero figure something out or dress warm and keep an ice scraper in the car. Adjust the valves . Hopefully whoever built the motor got that right.
1961 had 40 HP, synchronized 1st, 12 V system I think. My parents bought one new and I learned how to drive in it.
I mustered out from Ft. Sill OK – U S Army in April 1962 driving a new (’62) VeeDub which was RED with ivory leatherette. As I recall the out-the-door price was about $1875 including tax and license. I drove it to Los Angeles and soon traded it for a new ’62 Corsair (similar to one for sale on Barnfind) but the color was silver. To add some ‘ballast’ and make the Chevy handle better I added a 33lb cinder block to the Frunk. Much better then. Also, since the interior was electro-coated flat black, i decided to repaint it in gloss black lacquer . Made a nice upgrade.
We bought our 1966 bug in 1968 from a guy who took meticulous care of it. Lots of detailed notes of every gas stop, oil change, etc. No smoking or eating inside was his rule. Everything was done to keep it showroom fresh as possible. Once we bought it, it became our daily workhorse. We hauled everything in it including our big dog and lots of fast food meals were consumed inside. If he saw what we did to that poor bug, he would of had a heart attack. We sold it back in the 90’s. I think it’s still out there somewhere.
“Ordered” ? Doubtful. Even in the early 60s these were plentiful ,and since most were pretty much identical except for the color , you’d just go down to your VW dealer and pick the color you liked
VW beetles are a lot of fun and very nostalgic. But you simply cannot be in a hurry. At the time they seemed normal, if a bit pokey. Now everything about them is sort of a slow breathing stress reduction.exercise.
If the car is worth 16K, I don’t suppose a engine rebuild is $300.00 anymore?
This is a very nice example, nice throwback if that is your thing, man.
“But you simply cannot be in a hurry.”
And you can’t be hot. Or cold. Or having to stop in a hurry. Or haul any thing or anybody you have the least bit of respect for. They make a racket and stink to high heaven. Reprehensible abominations and the worst thing to ever crawl this planet.
Bought a Used 1961 Bug in 1966 for $650.00. It was like Brand New. Had the Reserve Gas Tank of 1 Gallon. I believe it had a 40 Horsepower Engine. Had the Oil changed & Mechanic did not tighten the Cap causing the Engine to burn up. Had my Uncle install a 36 Horsepower Engine. It was never the same. Sold it 3 years later for $450.00.
Bought a Used 1961 Bug in 1966 for $650.00. It was like Brand New. Had the Reserve Gas Tank of 1 Gallon. I believe it had a 40 Horsepower Engine. Had the Oil changed & Mechanic did not tighten the Cap causing the Engine to burn up. Had my Uncle install a 36 Horsepower Engine. It was never the same. Sold it 3 years later for $450.00.
In 1960, at UH, on Oahu, the VW dealer was looking for students to deliver a shipload of Bugs like this one , to the dealership. What fun , we raced them to Honolulu, and got paid for it!
Why am I “403 forbidden”?
Why am I “403 forbidden”?