1969 Volkswagen Beetle

Lot details
Registration No: UHA148H
Chassis No: 119989768
Mot Expiry: T.B.A.

Instantly recognisable the world over, the creation of the Beetle by Ferdinand Porsche to Hitler's request for a 'people's car' is now sufficiently well documented not to need repeating here. Meticulously developed (over 78,000 modifications are said to have been made) but never significantly changed in appearance throughout its production life, the Beetle's primary strengths of simplicity, reliability and quality of build ensured that it found a faithful following even in the most inhospitable climates. Production of the Beetle ceased in Europe in 1978, after surpassing the previous world record of car production held by the Ford Model T of 15 million in 1972. Production continued in Mexico and Brazil up until 2003, the model having been brought back into production in Brazil it is said at the specific request of an ex-girlfriend of the president!

Finished in yellow with black vinyl upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "sound" (electrical equipment, chassis), "good" (four-speed manual gearbox, interior trim, bodywork, paintwork, wheels / tyres) or "very good" (engine) condition. Originally intended to be a first car for one of the children, 'UDA 148H' has been in the current family ownership since 1983. The subject of a 'bare metal' restoration that was reportedly completed some "4-5 years ago", the Beetle started readily upon inspection. Riding on white painted wheels adorned with chrome hubcaps, it sports a body coloured dashboard, Grundig push-button LW / MW radio, 90mph speedometer, white vinyl headlining and black carpets. An ideal starter classic, it is hoped but not guaranteed that 'UDA 148H' will possess a fresh MOT certificate by the time of sale (the VW is otherwise accompanied by various restoration photographs and a V5 registration document).