1975 Volkswagen Beetle 1303S Karmann Cabriolet

Registration No: HBN 490N
Chassis No: 1152119756
MOT: Exempt

• Subject to a previous comprehensive body and mechanical overhaul which included extensive reworking of the floor pan
• Desirable 1303S model, fitted from factory with a 1600cc twin-port engine
• A genuine Karmann Cabriolet

Along with the Ford Model T, Citroen 2CV, and original Mini, the Volkswagen Beetle is generally recognised as being one of the elite pack of pop motoring icons. Conceived in the small Stuttgart design office of Dr. Ferdinand Porsche, the air-cooled, rear-engined 'People's Wagon', sponsored by the new German Chancellor, one Adolf Hitler before the outbreak of War, and resurrected by the British Army Major Ivan Hirst as part of the Allies post-war rebuilding of bombed-out German industry, went on to clock up a 21 million world record production milestone. The 1302 and 1303 'Super Beetles' saw the final development of the Beetle, and in many ways, they were the best. To the casual observer, the 1970 Beetle looked similar to previous models, the 1302 and 1303 ‘Super’ Beetles were the most radical reworks of the car during its long life. MacPherson strut front suspension was adopted, which allowed more front boot space and improved handling. The struts also allowed space for front disc brakes to be fitted from the factory. For the 1303S, the larger 1600cc engine was also adopted to deliver more power.

An original Karmann Cabriolet, chassis 1152119756 is understood to be a genuine UK right-hand drive example, which was coloured green during its early years before being painted in red as it presents today. It is evident from inspection that the little soft top has been subject to extensive works during its life, with floor pans and heater channels that are described to be in ‘excellent’ condition by the vendor, and prior to the vendor’s ownership it was also subjected to in-depth mechanical reworking which included a brake overhaul including the fitment of new disc brakes plus an engine overhaul. During the vendor's ownership, the Rostyle wheels were removed and widened pressed steel wheels replaced them, although the rostyles are available.

Now offered for sale as the car does not get as much use as the vendor would like, ‘HBN 490N’ is described as ‘excellent’ mechanically, with the bodywork, paintwork and transmission described as being ‘very good’. The interior is described as ‘in need of TLC’ by the vendor due to some stretching of the original, preserved velour seating, although it remains complete and untorn. Supplied within the history file is the V5C, some backup invoices for work performed, two workshop manuals and some magazines that relate to the Beetle.

For more information, please contact:
Lucas Gomersall
lucas.gomersall@handh.co.uk
07484 082430