For Sale: 1972 Volkswagen Beetle in Mooresville, North Carolina

The 1972 Volkswagen Beetle, though not quite a turning point itself, was a significant year for the beloved ""Bug"" for a couple of reasons: Breaking Records: On February 17th, 1972, the 15,007,034th Volkswagen Beetle rolled off the production line, surpassing the long-held record of the Ford Model T. This cemented the Beetle's place in automotive history as the most-produced car of a single design. To commemorate this achievement, Volkswagen even released a special edition ""World Champion"" Beetle that same year. Shifting Gears: While 1972 wasn't a major design overhaul, it marked a time of transition for the Beetle. The focus was gradually shifting towards the Super Beetle, which offered a more rounded front end, increased horsepower, and additional features. The 1972 Beetle might have subtly incorporated some early changes reflecting this shift, like potentially larger bumpers due to evolving safety regulations. Continued Popularity: Despite the transition, the 1972 Beetle likely remained popular for the reasons that had made the car a global phenomenon throughout the 1950s and 1960s: affordability, fuel efficiency, and its quirky charm. The Final Stretch: Although 1972 wasn't the last year of Beetle production in Germany (that came in 1974), it marked the final year for the car in the U.S. market due to stricter emission standards. Production continued in other countries like Mexico and Brazil for several more years. The 1972 Beetle represents a bridge between the classic design and the upcoming Super Beetle. It was a year of celebration for the car's record-breaking achievement, yet also a year hinting at the subtle changes to come.