Tidy Driver: 1962 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible

Some classics are cool without even trying. Take this 1962 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible, for example. It isn’t loaded with luxury appointments, and the driver won’t have a million horsepower under their right foot. However, wherever they go, this classic will draw admiring looks and smiles from passers-by. It presents extremely well and retains its original motor. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Beetle listed here on Craigslist in Nine Mile Falls, Washington. You could fly in and drive it home after handing the seller $14,995.

The seller emphasizes the Beetle’s originality, and apart from the chrome wheels, that seems fairly accurate. Its Gulf Blue paint was only available between August 1960 and July 1963, a fairly short period in the Beetle’s impressive production run. The presentation is first-rate, with no significant panel or paint imperfections. The rubber on the running boards isn’t worn, and the seller confirms that the VW is rust-free. The White soft-top is quite wrinkled, although there are no rips or visible stains. I suspect it spends much of its life lowered, so leaving the car in the sun with the top raised might improve its appearance. The glass is clear, and the trim is excellent. I quite like the stainless steel headlight “eyebrows,” which add further character to the car’s appearance.

It is easy to underestimate how clever the Beetle’s mechanical packaging is. By adopting an air-cooled engine, the car was lighter than a traditional water-cooled vehicle of the same size, while the extensive use of aluminum alloy further reduced the weight. Placing the motor at the back improved usable interior space, moved the noisy parts as far from the occupants as possible, and allowed for more aerodynamic styling. It was a winning formula that remained unchanged throughout the Beetle’s production life. This 1962 example features its numbers-matching 1,192cc flat-four and four-speed manual transaxle. The motor should deliver 41hp, according to that year’s Sales Brochure. The seller indicates that they converted the car’s electrical system to 12-volts, a common, worthwhile upgrade. They recently installed a new carburetor, fuel pump, lines, and a battery, and rebuilt the brakes. The Beetle runs and drives well, allowing the buyer to fly in and drive it home.

The positive vibes continue inside this Beetle, with its Silver Beige leatherette trim in good condition. There is no significant wear or other issues, and the painted surfaces are spotless. Rubber mats protect the contrasting Black carpet, and the wheel isn’t cracked or badly worn. The underdash luggage tray is a funky feature, and this car also features a pushbutton radio to relieve boredom on long journeys. It isn’t luxurious, but driving this German gem with the top down won’t embarrass the new owner.

Although my classic ownership history includes a forgettable dalliance with the Volkswagen Beetle, I still rather like them. There is something quite pure about the Beetle, and the engineering is far more impressive than some people acknowledge. This 1962 Convertible looks like a gem, and the price seems very competitive. Values have slumped recently, but signs suggest they may be beginning to rebound. If that proves the case, now would be the ideal time to park one in your garage. Could this beauty be a contender?