To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Amelia
Island event, 8 - 9 March 2019.
Estimate:
$15,000 - $20,000
- Rare and desirable factory sunroof
- Fresh ground-up restoration
- Finished in Sea Blue and upgraded with a leather interior
- The most recognizable automotive design of the 20th
century
The brilliant design of the Volkswagen Type 1 "Beetle" was the
essence of practicality. The platform backbone frame was simple to
build and adaptable. The rear-mounted engine left the entire space
between the wheels free of obstructions and mated directly to the
transaxle which eliminated the driveshaft. Trailing arm independent
front suspension with transverse torsion bar springs imposed little
upon the internal volume, and the swing axle rear suspension coped
well with the typically rough roads of the day.
VW preferred an air-cooled engine because it eliminated the whole
water-cooling system of pumps, pipes, hoses, and radiators, as well
as eliminating the risk of freezing in cold winter climes. From the
late 1950s through the early '70s, Beetles sold in the hundreds of
thousands in the U.S., peaking at 572,573 in 1970. In 1973, the
Beetle surpassed the Model T's 21-million-unit total production and
has continued to add to its margin for a further quarter
century.
This charming 1964 Beetle, expertly finished in its original color
of Sea Blue, was recently treated to a full ground-up, highly
detailed restoration, including new floor boards. The air-cooled
1300 engine was rebuilt with all-new accessories, and a set of wide
whitewall radial tires enhance the classic Volkswagen styling and
add to the safety and drivability of this vintage Beetle. Inside,
the interior has been completely restored and upgraded, featuring
genuine leather seats and door panels, as well as an OEM-style
radio with modern features and digital display. A rare and
desirable factory sunroof option makes this Beetle even more
special.
With hardly any miles on a comprehensive restoration and a with a
complement of luxury and mechanical upgrades, this classic
Volkswagen is ready to be driven, shown, or simply enjoyed.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction,
please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am19.
