1974 Volkswagen Beetle (Pre-1980)

The Volkswagen Beetle was conceived as a car for everyone, and it delivered on that promise more completely than almost any vehicle in history. Over 21 million were produced across a production run that lasted decades, and in February 1972 a Volkswagen Super Beetle became the car that broke the Ford Model T's long-standing record as the highest-selling automobile of all time. Volkswagen donated that record-breaking car to the Smithsonian Institution, where it remains today. The Super Beetle improved on the standard Beetle's formula with MacPherson strut front suspension, a larger front trunk, and for 1974 a curved panoramic windshield that gave the cabin noticeably better sightlines and a more modern feel. This one is finished in Ibiza Red and has been carefully built and sorted into a car that drives as good as it looks. Under the hood is a rebuilt and enlarged 1,641cc version of the dual-port air-cooled flat four backed by a four speed manual. The engine has been bored out for a little more displacement and the dual-port head gives it better breathing than the earlier single-port units. Shaved front and rear bumpers, removed heat exchangers, and a lowered front suspension give the car a cleaner, more purposeful stance than it wore from the factory. New 15 inch IMPI wheels finish the exterior with a look that suits the red paint well. Inside, the grey leatherette interior is clean and well done with a tidy dash and wood trim throughout. A Pioneer radio and custom speaker box behind the rear seats round out a cabin that is simple, honest, and exactly right for a car like this. The entire car was professionally repainted inside and out and the body has received new fenders, trunk lid, windshield, headlights, and turn signals. The suspension, brakes, wiring harness, and tires have all been replaced. A full collection of receipts documenting the work and history comes with the car, and it drives with the confidence of something that has been properly sorted. The engineer who designed the original air-cooled flat four engine received less than twenty dollars for his work despite it eventually powering over 21 million vehicles. This one is a fitting tribute to that legacy. Please call or email us today for more information.