WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

£13,000+ £6000-11,000 £4000-6000 £1000-2500

he modern Beetle was sadly axed last year, but that only serves to enhance the classic credentials of the original Type 1 – a legend of the pre-hatchback era.

We’re steering clear of early split or oval rear window cars and focusing instead on the more attainable cars built from 1957 to 1978 when European production finally ended. While values have risen steadily, famously huge production figures (21 million by 1992) have played a role in keeping prices sensible and making sure that parts remain available. As such, you don’t need to stump up as much cash as you would for a few other equally iconic motors. And keeping a solid Beetle motoring reliably needn’t be too much of

Ta headache. Still undervalued then? Very probably… Mods are generally to be avoided, although sensitively retro-fitting later parts and engines to earlier ‘Bugs’ is an accepted way to enhance drivability. In the main, though, structural condition means everything when you’re seeking an example that won’t swallow your investment; while mechanical issues can be easily sorted ( barring transmissions, which are pricey to rebuild) and most interior parts can be sourced, the cost of rust repairs can dwarf anything else.

Lovely early cars can cost more than £15k, and Karmann-built cabriolets fetch a premium, but increasing rarity and period charm will keep values strong, so your investment is safe.