1970 Volkswagen Beetle Karmann Cabriolet

Registration No: MCW 497J
Chassis No: 1512201072
MOT: Exempt

• Genuine Karmann Beetle Cabriolet
• Extensive restoration c.2012/1013
• Period accessories

In 1948, Wilhelm Karmann bought a standard Beetle and converted it into a four-seater convertible. After successfully presenting it at Volkswagen in Wolfsburg, Karmann began production of the Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet in 1949. After a number of stylistic and technical alterations made to it, the last of 331,847 cabriolets came off the conveyor belt on the 10th of January, 1980, bringing with it the end of an era. In 1971, alongside continued production of the standard Beetle, a variant that featured Macpherson strut front suspension and a re-designed front end was introduced which was officially known and marketed in Europe as the 'VW 1302' from 1971 (August 1970) to 1972 model years, and 'VW 1303' from 1973 onwards. The VW Beetle has seduced many a first-time buyer, collector and classic car enthusiast. And for obvious reasons; the parts network is many and inexpensive, the ability to convert the base model into many different variants was always available and the cost of the car itself presented a gateway into classic car ownership.

Offered here is a 1970 VW 1302 iteration of the Karmann Beetle Cabriolet. Said to offer better handling from its McPherson strut front end, this example benefited from an extensive ‘body-off’ restoration in 2012/13. Finished in the striking VW Hellas Gold paint, the car was first registered in Germany, with the German fahrzeugbrief logbook on file. Since import to the UK, it has been converted to right-hand drive at the time of restoration.

The engine is a 1600cc unit with a Weber carburettor and a Freeway Flyer gearbox. A new mohair roof was fitted in 2021. The car has disc brakes all round. Inside, the Karmann Cabriolet has benefitted from recent seat covers and carpets and a ‘Flat 4’ EMPI GT – style steering wheel, there’s an EMPI gear shifter, DAB radio with Pioneer speakers and a USB socket. The Cabriolet has been re-wired with a cut-out switch and a Powerspark electronic ignition added, a new Bosch ‘blue coil’ and new HT leads & plugs recently fitted. The car rolls on SSP Porsche 914 2-litre-style alloys with Toyo tyres.

Other work has included a new clutch cable and guides, bespoke under bonnet storage, a new fuel tank & spare wheel/ tyre, a front strut brace and rear lap belts. This genuine Karmann-built Cabriolet is offered with a current V5C.

For more information, please contact:
James McWilliam
james.mcwilliam@handh.co.uk
07943 584760