Disclosure: This site may receive compensation when you click on some links and make purchases.

Impressive Survivor: 47K Mile 1974 VW Beetle

This 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is an attractive example of a later model, with only 47,000 original miles and some period modifications that work quite well. The seller notes that a disability is driving the sale, as he’s having a difficult time getting in and out of the car. You’ll find this clean Beetle here on craigslist in Raleigh, North Carolina, and be sure to go here if the ad disappears.

Thanks to Barn Finds reader Pat L. for the find. I’m not normally a fan of these later models, but the interior was nicely updated and looked far more modern by comparison to the pre-refresh model. The interior presents quite well with no obvious tears or discoloration. The steering wheel, in my opinion, is too generic for a car like the Beetle, but a period Petri or other wood-rimmed wheel would look right at home.

The seller notes the engine runs well but doesn’t allude to any recent maintenance. The Beetle has had one exterior repaint and the brake lights currently aren’t functional. The seller is including a replacement set of taillights as the bulb sockets in the current units are broken. While not as desirable as older models, this later Beetle preserved the simplicity and “garage-friendly engine swap” that every iteration is known for.

Surprisingly, the period roof rack and surfboard are included (the Pepsi cooler is not). The aluminum park-bench bumpers are ugly but look fine, along with the polished hubcaps. The seller notes the white walls currently on the car were leaking down and are not mounted; however, a set of new-in-the-wrapper Coker Wide Whites are available for an additional $600. The price is $8,000 cash or a trade in the amount of $10,000 for a street rod or other classic car.

Comments

  1. Rob

    Craigslist never ceases too amaze me. I also have $8000. in gold coins that I am willing to trade for $10000. In silver. And I’m firm, but will take $9500. in smaller gold coins.

    Like 3
  2. David Miraglia

    any beetle will do

    Like 1
  3. Gary D Oliver

    I feel the newer models are safer. That’s why I bought a 74 Super Beetle 30 years ago which I still have. Also, the 74 was the last year for a carburetor.

    I have 150,000 miles on mine and I wouldn’t take less than $8,000 for it.

    Like 6
  4. RayZ

    8K is on the high end of the scale for a standard 74. This one has some issues.
    For this price he should throw in the tires and the cooler.
    ( I really hate when people want charge more for extra parts or remove something that’s in the photos Is it just me.)

    Like 6
    • DavidL Member

      Agreed. Comes awfully close to false advertising. They surf in South Carolina?

      Like 0
      • OldCarGuy

        Maybe they do surf. SC does border the ocean. But, the car is cute, though I wouldn’t own one. I have ridden in/driven in a few, and replaced an engine which is a very quick job, comparatively.

        Like 0
  5. sluggo

    looks like Ted Bundys ride, creepy.

    Like 2
  6. Miguel

    I was told by collectors of bugs here in Mexico to stay away from the large tail lighted cars. The earlier ones have much more value.

    Like 1

Leave A Comment

RULES: No profanity, politics, or personal attacks.

Become a member to add images to your comments.

*

Get new comment updates via email. Or subscribe without commenting.