Vehicle Description
Often, the most remarkable thing about the classic car hobby is the
stories the cars tell. Whether a classic is threaded through
generations of memories of a single family, the foundation of
decades of stories that helped build a business or tied to a
particular time or place, "that old car" is more than just metal
and four tires. For so many of us, it's history. It's
representative... It's sometimes even panoptic.
Being one of the final years of production for the iconic Beetle,
this 1979 Volkswagen Super Beetle Convertible already represents a
significant chapter in automotive history. But that's not the end
of the car's story - not by a long shot! Like many fine classic car
stories, this one begins with motorsports. A guy by the name of
Dick Morgensen was a professional driver who raced various top-tier
events throughout the southwest United States for close to a
decade. Morgensen eventually started a side business selling cars,
as many successful racers do. Known simply as Morgensen Motors and
eventually becoming an authorized Volkswagen franchise, Morgensen
Motors is where this Beetle was ordered new under the ownership of
Dick Morgensen.
Once stateside, the Beetle was stored at Morgensen Motors, likely
as showroom decor, becoming, as classic cars tend to do,
increasingly intertwined in decades of business stories and family
memories. In 2012, the drop-top was adopted by Mr. Morgensen's
daughter, who kept it for another nine years. That's when it
arrived at our Streetside Classics - Phoenix location, a mere 20
miles from the original dealership it adorned in its early days.
Today, after a thorough tune-up that included an overhaul of the
car's fuel pump, fuel tank, and fuel lines, this Volkswagen is
ready for new adventures with a new family.
No doubt, this Super Beetle's initial appeal lies in its remarkable
condition. The cleanliness of the car's interior and exterior
speaks volumes about the care and attention it has received over
the years. The black vinyl seats, dashboard, and other cockpit
components exhibit minimal wear, reflecting a cabin that has been
lovingly maintained. Externally, the believed original silver paint
retains a lustrous shine, indicative of a vehicle that has been
well-protected from the elements. Under that paint, solid body
panels believed to be original are in excellent condition, showing
no signs of significant wear.
The fuel-injected engine, believed to be original, is a hallmark of
Volkswagen's engineering prowess. The engine number AJ137340
indicates it's a 1975-79 1600cc model, known for its reliability
and efficiency. Paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, this
Beetle offers an engaging and nostalgic driving experience. 15-inch
wheels with 165/80R15 tires pair that retro experience with a
smooth and stable ride. The suspension system, featuring MacPherson
struts at the front, is designed for comfort and durability.
Naturally, the vehicle is equipped with drum brakes at the front
and rear, staying true to its original specifications.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Exceptionally preserved Volkswagen Super Beetle Convertible
• Owned by the same family for 42 years
• 1600cc Engine
• Fuel Injection
• 4-Speed Manual Transmission
• MacPherson Strut Front Suspension
• 15" Wheels with 165/80R15 Tires
• Believed Original Paint
• Well-Preserved Black Vinyl Interior
• Sale Includes Handwritten Mileage Log and VWoA Delivery
Documentation
The 1979 Volkswagen Super Beetle Convertible is a timeless classic
that blends nostalgic charm with unrivaled practicality. And that's
before the savvy collector considers the cool story behind this
well-preserved drop-top and what the car's existence surely meant
to those who worked so hard to maintain it. Experience the joy of
driving a piece of automotive history. Experience the beauty of
becoming the next chapter in this one-of-a-kind Super Beetle's
story!
