I have never understood why a seller would list a classic as desirable as this 1966 Volkswagen Beetle and then shortchange themselves by providing a lack of information about its history and mechanical health. Therefore, we are left with little option than to assess their listing images to draw our own conclusions. Taken at face value, this Beetle seems to offer much to its new owner. Its presentation is first-rate, and the upgraded engine should offer a significant performance increase. The seller has listed the Beetle here on eBay in Cookeville, Tennessee. Bidding sits below the reserve at $7,550 with plenty of time remaining for the action to intensify.

The VIN for this Beetle confirms that it rolled off the line before the end of July 1966, making the Bahama Blue paint gracing its panels 1-of-8 shades available during that period. The car’s history is unclear, although the lack of cosmetic shortcomings suggests it has been fairly sheltered following some form of restoration. The paint shines nicely, the panels are straight, and there is no evidence of rust. Of course, there is no substitute for an in-person inspection, which would be worthwhile to determine whether this VW is as good below the surface as the photos suggest. The trim is in good condition for a vehicle of this vintage, and the glass is clear. The Beetle rolls on wider steel wheels with hubcaps and trim rings, and the removable luggage rack is a practical addition for a car with limited trunk space.

If the Beetle’s Bahama Blue paint is original, that means that its interior Blue and White trim combination isn’t. Cars featuring that paint shade in 1966 received either Mosaic Amazon cloth or Black leatherette on the upholstered surfaces. However, the lack of originality in other areas of this car makes the change unsurprising. Faulting the appearance is seemingly impossible from the limited images, with the seats and door trims in good order, and the painted surfaces crisp and clean. The bamboo tray below the dash is complimented by the headliner in a similar material, and in-car entertainment is provided by a pushbutton radio.

Volkswagen struck a winning formula with the Beetle, with the car featuring its distinctive drivetrain combination for over sixty years. Buyers received a rear-mounted air-cooled flat-four that sent its power to the road via a transaxle. An automatic became available during the production run, but most buyers stuck with the venerable four-speed manual. This car originally featured the 1,285cc four delivering 50hp and 69 ft/lbs of torque. Performance was hardly dazzling, but the Beetle could hold its own in most traffic situations. It is disappointing that the seller supplies no engine photos because this is an area where the car has undergone a considerable upgrade. The powerplant nestled in the back of this classic has a capacity of 1,776cc, meaning that there should be increases in the power and torque figures. There is no information supplied about the car’s mechanical health, and this lack of information may partly explain why only fourteen people have placed the Beetle on their Watch List.

If the listing images paint an accurate picture, this 1966 Beetle appears to be a gem. Of course, there is nothing like solid information, and the lack of it in this case may be the reason why a classic as desirable as this has only attracted two bids. If a Beetle has been on your Wish List, reaching out to the seller could be worthwhile. It could provide the advantage that might allow you to take this beauty home. Are you tempted?