1977 Volkswagen Beetle

Collectors' Motorcars and Automobilia Auction|7 October 2019, 13:00 EDT|Philadelphia, Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum

1977 Volkswagen Beetle
Chassis no. 1172082281
Engine no. AJ116173

1,585cc OHV Air-Cooled Opposed 4-Cylinder Engine
Bosch Electronic Fuel Injection
48bhp at 4,200rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*Under 8,000 miles on the odometer
*Originally owned by Malcom Pray, two owners from new
*One of the best cars to get into classic motoring
*Recipient of recent mechanical work

THE VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE

Unquestionably one of the most important motor cars of the 20th century, the Type 1, known as the Beetle or Bug in the United States, was the affordable 'everyman' car of its day- much like Ford's Model T. Its rugged simplicity and quirky styling, a consequence of 'parallel thinking' on behalf of Ferdinand Porsche and his contemporaries, resulted in its worldwide popularity. Over the course of the entire latter half of the 20th century, the bug was produced by the millions and received calculated updates over the decades. By 1975, the North American model hit dealer floors modernized with Bosche L-Jetronic motors, larger bumpers and a single offset tailpipe.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

A man known for his influence and acumen, Malcom Pray was key figure in the northeastern automotive world as both an enthusiast collector and the operator of a number of foreign car dealerships. This very Beetle had remained under his car for some time before being acquired by the vendor's family about a quarter of a century ago. It has had just two owners over the course of its life.

Today, just under 8,000 miles appear on the odometer, a figure that is understood to be from new. Unsurprisingly, the interior appears to have seen very little use, with a serious lack of visible wear present. Not even the seats show with any sort of deep creasing. The exterior, however presents with a bit more wear- a simple result of remaining in the northeast. Small spots of exterior corrosion can be spotted, but the vehicle is entirely solid with not serious degradation.

This Diamond Silver Beetle has recently emerged out of hibernation, receiving both a thorough detailing and mechanical servicing. Receipts on file indicate that the Bug had work done to the fuel delivery system recently, and we can report that the Volkswagen was running well upon inspection.

Endlessly charming, the Beetle understandably sold in the millions due to its simplicity and ease of maintenance. These qualities today now make it the perfect vehicle to get into the classic car hobby, or further fill out a collection full of classic.

Additional information

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