The car offered here is an extremely special example of the legendary Volkswagen Beetle. Though millions of Beetles were produced, only a limited few can claim to be essentially brand-new. This Beetle, from the final year the sedan was offered in North America, is offered with just 128 original miles on the odometer. It is powered by a 1,585 cc overhead-valve flat four-cylinder engine. Fitted with a four-speed manual gearbox and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes, it offers an enjoyable, as-new driving experience.

In addition to being virtually as-new, the car boasts a known and highly significant history. On 26 July 1977, the Importer’s and Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin was issued to Pete Lovely Volkswagen. Upon arriving at the dealership, the car was given its window sticker and dealership’s license-plate frame and inserts extolling “Another Lovely Volkswagen.” It featured an optional sunroof and leatherette upholstery, chrome wheels, radial tires, and carried a sticker price of $3,949. Though highly desirable at the time, the car never had a chance to sell, as it went directly into Lovely’s private collection. And there it remained until 2013. During Mr. Lovely’s ownership, it accumulated just 87 miles.

Pete Lovely was no ordinary car dealer. Having opened his dealership in 1954, Lovely was heavily involved in racing for the next two decades. In 1955 he won the F-Modified SCCA Championship in a Porsche-Cooper Special, which was affectionately known as the “Pooper.” He repeated the result the very next year, further cementing his notoriety. He was eventually asked to drive for team owners John Edgar, John Fitch, and Jack Nethercutt. In 1959, Pete Lovely was asked to join Team Lotus. Driving for the team and, later, as a privateer, he made a handful of Formula 1 appearances for the team, including the 1959 Monaco Grand Prix before retiring from the competition in 1971.

With just 128 miles on the odometer and with long-term ownership in the hands of a noted racing driver and Volkswagen dealer, this final-year Beetle sedan is essentially brand-new and is thoroughly deserving of continued preservation in the care of a dedicated VW enthusiast.