Air-cooled heirlooms
Air-cooled Volkswagens of all shapes and sizes have massive cult appeal, but do they make sense as cars to own and use?
PERHAPS IRONICALLY for a car scene that owes its existence to the Nazis, the world of air-cooled Volkswagen ownership is arguably the most diverse and open-minded of all the car cults. Turn up at a meet and you might see cars from the ’40s to the noughties; everything from sports cars to double-cab pick-ups; the highly modified to the bone stock; teens to OAPs.
Barriers to entry are pleasingly low, with often affordable prices, easy DIY fixes and performance so weedy you might as well be pedalling, but also some hot modded cars.
We’ve assembled the three most sought-after Types – Beetle (Type 1), camper (Type 2) and Karmann Ghia (Type 14). We’re driving one of the earliest split-screen campers, and while the 1955 example is advertised for over six figures, others can still be had for £20k. Then there’s the 1970s Beetle that strikes a great balance between classic looks, more modern usability and affordability, with good cars available for £10k. And although the drop-dead-gorgeous Karmann Ghia was eyewateringly expensive when new at almost double the price of a Beetle, it can be had from £15k in good condition today.
Naturally, with production runs so lengthy and cars often decades old, there’s plenty to learn before taking the plunge. Over the page, we get you started…
The Karmann was eye-wateringly expensive when new at almost double the price of a Beetle