40 bhp, 1,192 cc air-cooled, horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine, four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with kingpins, transverse torsion bars and upper and lower trailing arms, rear swing axles with trailing arms and torsion bars, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 94.5"

• Superb restoration of an original California car

• Original 1,200 cc engine and six-volt electrical system, canvas top

• Complete with original owner’s handbook and spare tire

Without a doubt, the most influential compact car to land on U.S. soil was Volkswagen’s Beetle, affectionately nicknamed the “Bug” by a smitten American public. Officially known as the Type 1 Sedan, the Beetle evolved from Dr. Ferdinand Porsche’s prewar KdF-Wagen.

In many ways, the years 1958 to 1964 were perhaps the greatest in VW’s history. Growing success in the American market, trendsetting advertisements and the development of a worldwide distribution chain all contributed to the Beetle’s massive surge in popularity. During this period, the Beetle matured, becoming far more practical and user-friendly than before. Motor Trend agreed, describing the improved Beetle as “a car that breaks sharply with tradition, and does so with undeniable competence.” A multitude of improvements provided even greater comfort and convenience for 1965.

A solid and rust-free original southern California example, this 1965 Beetle Cabriolet benefits from a show-quality restoration. Finished in factory-correct Bahama Blue with a grey interior, it is complemented by a black canvas top and period-style wide whitewall tires. It retains its original 1,192 cc engine and six-volt electrical system. Presently showing approximately 51,000 miles and complete with a hard-to-find original owner’s handbook and an original spare tire, this 1965 Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet is a wonderful example of one of the most influential automobiles ever built, in its most desirable open-air form.