As a passionate enthusiast, I am irresistibly drawn to classics with two or more wheels. My love extends beyond the usual suspects to the quirky, the rare, and even lemons. This 1973 Volkswagen SP2 is undeniably rare, and some may consider it quirky. Produced in Brazil, it is rarely seen beyond its home country. However, this SP2 has found its way to Miami, Florida, and is listed here on eBay. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting an automotive oddball with a BIN of $44,900 OBO.

The Brazilian Government’s protectionist approach to the automotive industry encouraged manufacturers to open local production plants to avoid the prospect of high tariffs. Volkswagen was happy to set up shop because it provided a significant market for its affordable Beetle. However, Volkswagen do Brasil had grander ambitions, commencing development of what would become known as the SP2 in 1970 as a sporting model. Utilizing a tried-and-true industry practice, the process involved styling a rakish hatchback body to sit atop a proven platform. In this case, the chosen donor was the Type 3 chassis and floor pans, slashing development time to just over two years. The stylists penned a sleek, purposeful body that is considered by some to be the most beautiful Volkswagen ever built. This 1973 example looks stunning in Light Ivory. Its history is unclear, and scrutinizing the listing images reveals minor paint imperfections. These aren’t significant and are acceptable if potential buyers seek a survivor-grade classic. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and there is no mention or evidence of rust. If problems are detected, they need not be the end of the world. Sourcing Type 3 floors and other parts is a piece of cake, and repairs will be no more complicated than for any other Volkswagen of this vintage. The glass is crystal clear, and this SP2 retains its correct steel wheels.

The SP2 may have looked unlike any other Volkswagen that came before, but its drivetrain was not revolutionary. It featured a rear-mounted, air-cooled flat-four engine feeding power to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transaxle. In this case, the engine’s capacity is 1,678cc, generating 75hp and 94 ft/lbs of torque. Some people draw an immediate comparison between the SP2 and various Puma models, which is understandable. However, Puma almost always enjoyed a performance advantage, courtesy of its use of fiberglass body panels rather than the steel used in the SP2. Therefore, performance will be adequate, not mind-blowing. Potential buyers can consider this beauty a turnkey proposition. The seller supplies this YouTube video of the vehicle in action. The motor sounds sweet, and the car rolls effortlessly down the road.

Combine the stylish body with the well-appointed interior, and it’s easy to see why the SP2’s sticker price was twice that of a regular Beetle. Plush seats with adjustable headrests, a dash with a comprehensive gauge cluster, an integrated console, a sports wheel, and luxurious carpet on the floors and in the cargo area, it’s all there. For the average Brazilian, this interior would be viewed as aspirational. Someone has added an aftermarket radio/cassette player. Otherwise, this interior is as it left the factory, and in excellent condition. There is no evidence of wear or other issues, and the cargo area retains its correct luggage straps. I can’t spot any UV damage or other problems that might spoil the ownership experience or attract negative comments.

Although records are imprecise, it is believed that Volkswagen produced between 10,205 and 11,123 examples of the SP2 during its 3½ year stint on showroom floors. The company’s export program was minimal, with fewer than 700 cars heading to foreign shores. The inability to meet North American headlight regulations closed that market, which is a shame. The SP2 doesn’t cross our desks at Barn Finds very often, and placing a value on this immaculate 1973 example is challenging. I located a couple of sales from the early 2020s, and a figure of around $20,000 seems to have been the average at that time. Is this car worth the seller’s BIN? It’s hard to say, but one characteristic of the classic world is its unpredictability. Therefore, I won’t be surprised if someone votes with their heart and takes this Volkswagen home.