The question that invariably sparks debate is: What was the most important car of the 20th Century? The Ford Model T is an obvious choice because, at one point, 50% of the cars plying the world’s roads were Model Ts. However, the original Volkswagen Beetle must be a strong contender, because it remained in production and sold in respectable numbers well past what many may have considered its use-by date. This 1964 Beetle is a gem that has been part of the same family since the day it left the showroom floor. It has endured a few adventures along the way, but it is a turnkey proposition that could be restored or preserved by its new owner. The seller has listed the Beetle here on eBay in Macungie, Pennsylvania. Three bids have pushed the price to $7,600 and, with the reserve met, it is guaranteed to find a new home in a few days.

This Beetle has a story to tell, but it is a classic that has remained in or around its current location since leaving the lot in 1964. It has remained part of the same family since that day, but there have been a few adventures that have left their mark. I’m not talking about the visible selection of minor paint imperfections and panel bruises. The seller confirms that at some point in the early 1970s, this classic fell victim to an engine bay fire. It wasn’t severe but the damage was significant enough to warrant a repaint in the Beetle’s original Panama Beige. The vehicle has remained untouched ever since, and its overall condition suggests the work was performed to a high standard. Rust is sometimes a problem with Beetles, but this one has avoided the worst of that. The seller states that there are spots of surface corrosion on the underside, but that this VW has no penetrating rust. The trim looks acceptable for a survivor-grade classic, and the glass is clear.

Volkswagen hit upon a winning mechanical formula with the original Beetle, which remained essentially unchanged throughout its production life. This car rolled off the line featuring a rear-mounted 1,192cc air-cooled flat-four that sent its 40hp to the road via a four-speed manual transaxle. Outright acceleration was never the object of the exercise with the Beetle, with the design brief specifying the ability for the vehicle to cruise for hours on the autobahn at 60mph while returning excellent fuel economy. Volkswagen achieved that goal, which is one reason why these classics proved so popular. This beauty isn’t numbers-matching, with the original engine making way for a larger 1,493cc unit which should deliver slightly better performance. The seller states that the electrical system was upgraded to 12-volts at that point, allowing the engine to leap into action fairly effortlessly. The car has seen little use during the past twenty years but has been appropriately maintained and driven occasionally to blow out the cobwebs. It runs and drives well, but the seller recommends performing a thorough inspection before undertaking any long journeys.

One aspect of this Beetle that remains original is its interior. The Brown leatherette trim shows age on the seat edges, but it is still serviceable. The rubber mat is in good order, and the door trims may respond positively to a cleaning. There is a hole in the dash where a radio or blanking plate should be, but I’m sure the winning bidder will find something to occupy that spot. Potential buyers who prefer classics with a documented history may find this Beetle extremely attractive. Opening the glovebox reveals the original Window Sticker, Owner’s Manual, and Service Booklet.

The bidding action on this 1964 Volkswagen Beetle has been very subdued, although the listing’s view history may indicate that the situation could change. That begs the question of what the winning bidder would do once this German gem is safely squirreled away in their workshop. Its lack of rust makes it a prime candidate for a cosmetic refresh, recapturing the appearance of the day the current owners took delivery. However, it has enjoyed a few adventures and overcome adversities along the way, wearing evidence of this through its minor panel and paint imperfections. A pristine classic is always tempting, but a survivor-grade vehicle that proudly carries its scars is equally attractive. I would probably leave this Beetle as-is, but do you feel the same?