VW Beetle
ENGINE 1285cc/flat-4/OHV POWER 43bhp@4100rpm TORQUE 63lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 78mph 0-60MPH 24sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 24-33mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 17,647 miles WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The 1285cc engine starts on the button, runs cleanly with no hesitation and drives as beautifully as you would expect from a car with such low mileage. Pick-up from the peppy engine is responsive and the motor feels fresh and healthy. Each gear change is precise and smooth with no slop or synchromesh issues and the clutch is tight and does not slip. Steering is smooth and direct, save for a few millimetres of free play and a very slight pull to the right. The all-drum brakes work well and stop the car in a straight line with no juddering or vibration. Handling is impeccable, having good road holding and cornering characteristics, and the suspension feels solid without being too stiff. The bodywork is exemplary, another result of the limited use that this car has seen. The paint is close to immaculate and all the chrome trim, including the VW branded hub caps, is flawless. There is no hint of rust anywhere on the car, even around the window trims and behind the wheel arches, and the door sills and kick plates are equally unmarked. The two-tone white and black steel wheels are in good condition and the Michelin tyres – including the matching spare – all have plenty of tread, but the side walls are showing some age-related wear. An inspection underneath the car shows no evidence of any dodgy welding, corrosion or damage repair.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
It’s a pretty basic affair but everything is exactly how it should be and looks and feels factory fresh, with the exception of the inoperative fuel gauge. The colour-matched dashboard is faultless and the door trims are unspoiled. The headlining is spotless and correctly fixed to the roof with no rips, tears or sagging. Carpets are dry and in fine fettle, especially behind the rear seats. The seats are firm but comfortable.
UNDER THE BONNET
The motor looks brand new and its small size makes it very easy to inspect. The drive belt, HT leads, pipes, hoses and connectors are all in excellent condition and the engine bay itself, including the underside of the boot lid, are rust-free and exceptionally well presented. An examination of the steering, suspension and braking components reveals no nasty surprises and again, everything is commensurate with the car’s low mileage. All bushes and joints are in top condition with no apparent wear.
THE CCW VIEW
This stunning mid-Sixties Beetle comes resplendent in a fabulous colour and with a desirable 1.3-litre motor. They don’t often come along in this condition or with such low mileage, so this should be on your shortlist if you’re after a top specimen of the marque.