We often find that certain vehicles are a “feast or famine” proposition at Barn Finds. We can go for months without seeing a single example of a particular vehicle type, and then a few will land on our desks in quick succession. We’ve recently seen a few Dune Buggies appear out of the woodwork, and this 1969 Berry Mini-T is a perfect example. From its metalflake paint to its diamond-buttoned interior trim, it is the epitome of old-school cool. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P for spotting an affordable classic that is guaranteed to turn heads.
There is no denying that the Dune Buggy market was dominated by the Meyers Manx, with styling that has become iconic and frequently copied. However, Berry Plasti-Glass Works in Pismo Beach, California, followed a different path. Their bodies are reminiscent of Hot Rods like the T-Bucket, although there is probably some poetic license involved in that assessment! The company produced two distinct variants. The Mini-T “4” utilized an unchanged VW Beetle platform that gave buyers room to seat four. The Mini-T that you see here was the more popular, and followed the Meyers principle of bolting the fiberglass body to a shortened Beetle frame and floors. This gem presents exceptionally well, carrying many of the cosmetic features that were hallmarks of vehicles from this era. The body looks excellent, with no evidence of stress cracks or other problems. The Gold metalflake paint shines beautifully and is guaranteed to turn heads. The vertical windshield is crystal clear, and the top fits as tight as a drum. There is no carpet, providing us with a clear view of the floors. They look rock-solid, suggesting this Mini-T is rust-free. The lights are in good order, and the vintage Cragar wheels add the perfect finishing touch to the exterior.
The seller doesn’t supply any close-up engine shots but confirms that it features a 1,600cc Volkswagen four and a four-speed manual transaxle. These engines aren’t particularly powerful, although Dune Buggies can be a surprise packet when the subject turns to performance. Ditching the steel Beetle body in favor of fiberglass significantly slashes the vehicle’s curb weight, and as anyone involved in motorsport knows, weight is the enemy of performance. It won’t be a muscle car, but it would undoubtedly show a standard Beetle a clean set of heels. The news for potential buyers is positive because this Mini-T is in excellent mechanical health. The seller replaced the fuel lines, fuel pump, and wheel seals in 2021. They treated the carburetors to a rebuild, and the vehicle has always been garage-kept. It starts on the first turn of the key, running and driving perfectly. We might be on the downhill run from summer to fall, but there are still plenty of opportunities for a new owner to hit the road and have some fun.
The Mini-T continues the old-school approach with its Black diamond-buttoned interior. The upholstered surfaces are free from wear and other problems, but there is no carpet on the floor. Many owners chose not to fit it, because it is an excellent trap for sand and moisture. However, if this Berry is only going to see sealed road service, dropping in carpet from a Beetle would be simple and inexpensive. The dash is pretty basic, and its presentation is probably the interior’s weak point. It is serviceable, but if the new owner spent a bit of time in their workshop tweaking a few of the fine details, it would lift the presentation enormously. Dune Buggies represent motoring at its most basic, so there are no luxury touches like a radio or air conditioning. Mind you, who needs A/C when you can drop the top and enjoy what Mother Nature provides for free?
The seller listed this 1969 Berry Mini-T Dune Buggy here on Craigslist in Yukon, Oklahoma. They set their price at $8,900, which means it falls into the affordable category. It probably isn’t a practical proposition as a daily driver, but it is a low-maintenance classic that will undoubtedly bring a smile to the new owner’s face every time they slip behind the wheel. Enjoyment is what the classic car ownership experience should be all about, and this Mini-T would deliver. It hasn’t been on the market for long, and I won’t be surprised if it finds a new home fairly quickly. Have you ever owned a Dune Buggy? If you have, would you consider a repeat performance?
Can’t you just hear the crickets chirping in the silence. Dune buggies, for folks not near any oceans, had a very limited calling. Seemed, as a project, they sold great guns, until they were finished, they really weren’t that much fun. Take this one, for example. This is a nice one, far as dune buggies go, yet, no comments tells me, the time for these has long past.
I own a 1968 Klipp Dune buggy! It is a riot to drive! We use it along with 7 others that are painted exactly alike for parades and social events. The metal flake gold paint that we retain is old school and is a crowd pleaser!
Dune buggies are not done, I think they will be making a comeback, not as strong as a Trans Am or Mustang but With what I see in Excelsior Springs Missouri there are quite a few.
Never underestimate the power of an easy inexpensive toy that makes people look at it and say WOW! THATS PRETTY COOL!
That’s the goofiest looking car I’ve ever seen. Looks like it was pulled from an amusement park ride. I’d rather drive a cyber truck at least you could hide your face.