Chassis no. 1469015

36-hp, 1,192-cc. OHV horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine, four-speed manual transmission, four-wheel torsion bar independent suspension, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 94.5-inches

America was introduced to the Volkswagen by New York importer-impresario Max Hoffman in 1949. Hoffman had the sole distributorship, but his customers did not warm quickly to the small, homely beetle-shaped car with 24 horsepower and mechanical brakes. With more power, hydraulic brakes and an enlarged, oval rear window, VW’s own distribution system scored success by 1955, selling nearly 30,000 cars.

Previously restored by a top-quality California Volkswagen shop, this oval-window Beetle presents well cosmetically in ruby red with gray leatherette upholstery and a gray cloth headliner. All mechanical systems have been rebuilt, and the car is highly accessorized, including “basket” wheel trim rings, stone guards on the fenders, chrome plugs for the jacking points, aluminum sill guards and European-style horn grilles. In addition, it has the very rare opening rear windows and desirable black vinyl, sliding sunroof.

Although increasingly popular in the United States by 1957, Type 1 Volkswagen sales had yet to break 65,000. Oval-window cars are therefore very unusual today. Examples in this condition, and so well equipped, are rarer still. This car represents a very uncommon opportunity.