1963 Volkswagen Beetle 1200

Automobiles of the 1940s and 50s around the globe were huge and trimmed to the teeth in chrome. Whilst most looked like spaceships and were stunning to look at, they cost a small fortune to own and maintain. Enter the Volkswagen Beetle.

“The Bug” was first introduced in 1938 and was originally designed by Ferdinand Porsche, however it was only after World War II, the small ‘people’s car’ shot to prominence.

The brief was simple, be able to seat 2 adults and 2 children, with room for their luggage and the ability to cruise at 100km/h on the all new Autobahn. The Beetle was basic, yet it still managed to fit the family as well as its powerplant was a simple; an in-expensive and robust small capacity air-cooled flat-four layout designed by Porsche himself, able to withstand the coldest climates of Germany without cooling systems freezing.

By 1960 the Beetle had improved immensely, all models featured indicators built into the rear lights and separate on the front wings, engines output was increased using better carburetion and increased compression ratios, all models featured fully synchromesh gearboxes, grab handles, sun visors and the fuel tank was redesigned for better luggage capacity.

Available here today is an absolutely stunning and very original survivor, an Australian delivered 1963 Volkswagen Beetle presented in Ruby Red coachwork.

Its original engine remains and mechanically sound, along with its body in incredible condition this fantastic little Beetle has just come out of a vast Volkswagen collection collated over approximately 20 years.

Preserved sympathetically the exterior presents beautifully, straight lines all around. The grey leatherette interior, plus carpets and colour matched red dashboard, along with its centrally mounted speedometer all presents in good order throughout.

With Beetles constructed prior to ’68 now commanding strong collector interested due to their purity of design, this example offers a unique opportunity to invest and drive a piece of exciting motoring history. With plenty of character, the iconic Beetle not only puts a smile on the drivers face but even the people it passes.