One of the 20th century's most iconic automobiles, the Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle would become the best-selling imported car in the United States en route to attaining status as a beloved cult classic. The brainchild of Dr. Ferdinand Porsche, the Beetle inspired great loyalty and enthusiasm based on its practicality, reliability, and affordability. The platform backbone frame was simple to build, and its rear-mounted engine left the entire volume between the wheels free of obstructions and mated directly to the transaxle, eliminating the driveshaft. The air-cooled engine further eliminated the whole water-cooling system of pumps, pipes, hoses, and radiators, as well as reducing the risk of freezing in cold northern winters.

The example on offer carries the distinction of having been previously owned by actor and writer Dick Patterson, whose credits include appearing in Grease, numerous Broadway shows, The Carol Burnett Show, and The Mary Tyler Moore Show. A beloved companion of the star and his wife, Pat, the two would enjoy daily driving the Volkswagen around southern California before storing the car permanently at the family’s home in 1985. The car would remain stationary for the next 15 years until another member of the family, Murt Munson, took ownership and proceeded to commission a complete restoration. During this process, it was decided that the little “Bug” could use a couple extra horses, and the numbers-matching engine (as confirmed by the entry in the original maintenance book) was bored out to 1,600 cubic centimeters and upgraded using an assortment of performance parts.

In 2013, the Beetle was sold to the Dare to Dream Collection, where it has remained since. Still presenting in remarkable restored condition, the car will continue to be a wonderful companion at car shows or on a twisty backroad. Additionally, the Volkswagen is accompanied by an owner’s manual and maintenance card with stampings dating back to 1966, invoices, and photographs, as well as a typed recollection from Pat Patterson about her and Dick’s time with the car.

With plenty of character and Hollywood history, this 1967 Volkswagen Beetle will make a wonderful addition to any garage.