1973 Volkswagen Super Beetle

Description

By now you've noticed the trend in Volkswagen Beetles, and they're not getting cheaper. This 1973 Beetle convertible is a great example of very-affordable fun, though, with a neat custom interior, a solid structure, and all the charm that came standard with every single one they ever built.

This jaunty little Beetle convertible should look instantly familiar to just about anyone, and painting it white gives it an eternal summertime look that suits it just fine. It sure looks like this has always been a solid southern car and since 2003 the same owner has diligently upgraded it and fixed all the things that needed attention along the way. That means paint that shines up nicely without looking over-done, nice fit to the doors that's typical of these sturdy little cars, and shiny chrome bumpers that look great against the white paint. There's a minimum of trim on the '73 models although little things like the visors over the headlights add some personality (like a Beetle needs more personality!). There's a trailer hitch out back, although I can't imagine what you'd be pulling with a Beetle, but it's there if you need it. Both the taillight lenses are in good shape, as are the fender-mounted parking lamps, so obviously it's been indoors and not cooked in the sun, and the rubber components throughout are quite nice.

All Beetles had vinyl upholstery when they were new, but in a convertible, even the textured surfaces can get sticky and hot. That's why the diamond-tufted cloth upholstery in this convertible is a welcome change. Nicely installed over the stock seats, it looks comfortable and inviting, and with matching door panels, it has a very finished, high-quality look. The dash is in good condition and the single pod ahead of the driver carries the big round speedometer with integral fuel gauge that's the extent of Beetle instrumentation. The entertainment system has been recently upgraded to an AM/FM/CD stereo head unit and a leather wrap on the steering wheel makes it easy to grab. Overhead, there's a brand new black convertible top that fits as well as any we've ever seen on a Beetle, and includes a correct glass rear window and interior headliner that makes the VW feel a lot plusher than you'd expect. The front trunk compartment is also nicely finished with black carpets and side panels, suggesting that this car was owned by someone who loved it very much.

The traditional VW flat-four engine is about as simple and reliable as machines get, and thanks to a freshly rebuilt carburetor and recent tune-up, it runs as well as you'd expect. It isn't detailed for show, but it does have a well-maintained look that doesn't show leaks or other issues and it hasn't been modified like so many of its siblings. Underneath, there are new floor pans, which really isn't a big deal for VW lovers, some new suspension bushings, and a 4-speed manual transmission with shift action that will be all-too-familiar to Bug fanatics. Cool Minilite-style wheels add a sporty look and carry slightly oversized 185/65/15 Michelin radials that fill the fenders quite nicely.

Just a well-loved and well-maintained Bug ragtop that's ready to enjoy. You could get one for less, but why bother fixing one up when you can have one this nice as a turn-key package? Call today!