1955 Volkswagen Beetle Oval Window BUG / MINT Showroom Condition
The First Year the VW was imported into the USA
The People's Car
The 1955-1959 Volkswagen Beetle models well and truly established the little air-cooled, rear-engine car as part of the American landscape. America was becoming the Bug's home away from home, and in 1955, Volkswagen of America opened its doors in a modest two-story building in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. This car, was one of the first to be imported and sold in the USA. Nearly 65% of all US imports were Volkswagens.
This '55 VW Beetle was one of ten cars chosen to be shown at the "Driven to America 2 (DTA2) Circle of Legends display at the NY Institute of Technology in Old Westbury NY on Oct 14th, 2018. This showroom condition VW was among the best of the best including the Mercedes Benz Gullwing, BMW 507 convertible and 8 others. Over 400 Porsche's were invited to the event. Several cars from the circle of 10 are shown in the last few photos. Enjoy! There is no longer any doubt about it," said Road & Track in October 1956. "Dr. Ferdinand Porsche's little �people's car' has done what no other import has ever been able to do: it has gained an unmistakable wheel-hold in the garages and hearts of the American car-buying public . . . . The only mystery is: how did it happen? Especially with practically no national advertising? Of the various explanations, probably the simplest is that the Volkswagen fulfills a need which Detroit had forgotten . . . a car that is cheap to buy and run, small and compact, light and maneuverable yet solidly constructed, and perhaps above all, super dependable and trouble-free."
Cost 1955: $1595 / 38mpg / 0-60mph: 20secs / Top Speed: 68mph / Weight 1600lb Notable feature was the "W" shaped deck lid which was used from 1955-1957. The Beetle was, and still is today; fun to drive, easy to park, had no trouble keeping up with traffic, was built like a tank and was virtually trouble free. No wonder so many Americans loved it.
This Type 1 VW, known as "Oval" is one of the finest you will ever see. A frame off restoration in 1998, this Bug is still flawless today. The entire car was stripped and refinished in its original factory color. The engine was completely rebuilt top to bottom. Everything was done to perfection using all original or correct parts. Restoration photos are available at your request. An original 1955 brochure is included from the selling dealership, Allwood Motors in Clifton NJ. This VW spent most of its life in Woodland Hills California before coming to NY to join a private collection in 2012. This collectors showcase piece of automotive history is among the best in the world. Call us or come on in. You will NOT be disappointed!
