LOT 302

1969 Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet Coachwork by Karmann Chassis no. 159760385 Engine no. H349028

Sold for US$5,824 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

Lot 302

1969 Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet
Coachwork by Karmann

Collectors' Motorcars and Automobilia Auction|11 October 2020, 13:00 EDT|Philadelphia, Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum

1969 Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet
Coachwork by Karmann
Chassis no. 159760385
Engine no. H349028

1,600cc OHV Flat 4-Cylinder Engine
Single Carburetor
38bhp at 3,900rpm
4-Speed Manual Transaxle
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes

*1600cc flat four-cylinder
*Four-speed manual transmission
*Sought after Karmann Cabriolet
*Solid original car

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

One of the most cherished and long-lived variations of the Volkswagen Beetle is the Cabriolet, which actually outlived the German sedan by three years. In 1949, soft-top versions of the Beetle were produced by two German coachbuilders, Hebmüller and Karmann. The Hebmüller was a two-seater with a long engine deck and was produced only through 1952 at which time the company folded. Karmann fated to have a long association with VW. The name is perhaps best known for the Karmann Ghia coupes and convertibles, designed by the latter Italian concern, built as sporting Volkswagens from 1955 to 1974.

The Karmann cabriolets were four-seat models, which gave them a much wider audience, particularly in the United States where they sold well. The Karmann cabriolet generally mirrored the development of the Beetle during its life, both mechanically and in body features, although the top mechanism maintained its distinctive appearance. When folded, the top did not disappear, but sat proudly on the rear deck, covered with a canvas boot.

When VW introduced the Super Beetle, with MacPherson strut front suspension and improved luggage space in 1971, the Cabriolet adopted its characteristics, retaining them even when Super Beetle sedans were discontinued after 1974. Production continued alongside the standard Beetle, and carried on after 1977 when the German Beetle was discontinued. The last of more than 330,000 Karmann Beetle Cabriolets was produced on January 10, 1980.

This particular VW was gifted to the consigner a number of years ago in 1998 by his father, who's first car had been a hard top Beatle. Since that time, the car was kept in the garage and driven on weekends around the neighborhood.

Today, this car is believed to have had three owners and is in very solid original condition. It appears to have only one repaint over the original. The interior is original and shows some signs of age. It does run very well and drives very nicely. A great car for a do it yourself restoration or for enjoyable country drives.

Saleroom notices

Please note, the title for this vehicle will be in transit.

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