The automotive world rode a retro wave in the 1990s, and Volkswagen was happy to come along for the ride. It released the New Beetle as a tribute to its global icon, and although it didn’t enjoy the enormous sales success of its predecessor, it still sold in numbers that justified its development costs. This 1999 New Beetle is a genuine survivor, ready to hit the road with a new owner behind the wheel. Some may be drawn to its turnkey status, but many may find the price irresistible. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the VW listed here on Craigslist in Mill Creek, Washington. If the seller’s price of $1,450 isn’t enough to tempt you, their willingness to consider offers may be enough for you to pursue this classic further.

Volkswagen unveiled Concept One at the 1994 North American International Auto Show. The vehicle was a modern interpretation of the original Beetle, and caused a sensation among attendees and the motoring press. Buoyed by the positive feedback, a production version, dubbed the New Beetle, hit showroom floors in 1997. It remained in production until 2011 and, like its predecessor, the New Beetle enjoyed global sales success. Our feature VW rolled off the line in 1999, ordered by its first owner in a shade called Silver Arrow. As a survivor, it is fair to expect chips and scratches on the exterior, though the paint retains a pleasant shine. The listing images are inconclusive, but it appears that the driver’s door may have been repaired at some point. Otherwise, the panels are straight, the trim and glass are in good condition, and there is no evidence of rust.

The seller provides no engine photos, but the New Beetle took the drivetrain concept from its predecessor and completely reversed it. While the original Beetle was rear-engined and sent its power to the road via the rear wheels, the New Beetle followed a more conventional front engine/front-wheel-drive architecture. This car features a 2.0-liter four developing a factory-quoted 115hp and 122 ft/lbs of torque. A five-speed manual transmission sends power to the road, while power steering and four-wheel disc brakes are standard equipment. The news for potential buyers is all good: this classic runs and drives perfectly. The seller indicates that there are no fluid leaks and no stray warning lights to cause driver angst. The new owner can hand over their cash, twist the key, and drive off into the sunset.

Although considered a five-seater, the interior of this New Beetle is only spacious enough to accommodate four people comfortably. And comfort is the operative word, because this car features air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM radio/CD player. The interior looks tidy, with no rips or tears on the cloth seatcovers. The plastic is in good condition, but the images suggest the appearance would improve considerably if the buyer had the car detailed by a professional. Otherwise, it is complete, right down to the little dash-mounted vase with its artificial daisy.

We see plenty of affordable classics crossing our desks at Barn Finds, many of which need considerable work. However, this 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is an exception, presenting fairly well as a turnkey proposition. Forget the idea of weekend adventures, because the seller’s price and the inherent fuel efficiency of this car would make it a practical daily driver. It hasn’t been on the market long, and I suspect that someone may need to act fast to take it home. Are you tempted?