1970 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
ENGINE 1493cc/flat-4/OHV POWER 53bhp@4200rpm TORQUE 78lb ft@2600rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 78mph 0-60MPH 22sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 24-33mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT August 2020 ODOMETER 75,416 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
This 1500 model starts first time and the engine itself appears to be in good shape, emitting only positive noises, with no smoke or fluids. Throttle response is excellent and the air-cooled flat-four feels refined and freerevving. Both the clutch and gearbox are strong and gear selection is positive with no whining or slipping in any gear. There’s a touch of slack in the steering before the wheels begin to turn the car, but this doesn’t detract from the overall driving experience and the steering itself feels correctly weighted and free from vibrations. The vehicle tracks straight and true and there are no rattles or nasty noises from the engine, drivetrain or suspension. The brakes require a little force to apply, but they do work well and stop the car progressively in a straight line.
BODYWORK CHECK
This beige Beetle is in excellent overall condition with not a spot of rust to be found anywhere. Even the chrome bumpers and trim pieces are clean and have not succumbed to any weathering or pitting. It’s a similar story underneath the car and the chassis is in great shape. The wheel arches and sills are spotless and the jacking points undamaged. The only real issues concern light fogging that’s apparent in the corners of the windscreen in certain lighting conditions and a door mirror that blows in at speed.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The interior presents impeccably. It’s a stark affair, but everything is clean and unworn. The carpets look new and the seats comfortable without feeling old or degraded. The black vinyl door cards are unmarked and the headlining is in perfect condition with no rips, marks or sagging areas. All of the switchgear works perfectly and the single, central speedometer gauge is accurate. There is no evidence of any water making its way into either the cabin or the boot area and an inspection beneath the carpets assuages any fears of potential rust issues.
UNDER THE BONNET
The comprehensive history tells us that service items have been replaced regularly and the latest bill is for a brake service and carburettor tune-up last summer. The distributor cap and HT leads look new and the fuel lines and filter are clean. Suspension and braking components are not visibly damaged or overly worn.
THE CCW VIEW
With only two former keepers, low mileage and a detailed history file, you can rest assured that this Beetle has led something of a charmed life. This is reflected in the overall condition of the car, both inside and out – it looks good and performs well on the road, with the 1.5-litre motor lending the car more drivability than smaller-engined Beetles.