Vehicle Description
To be OFFERED AT AUCTION at Auctions America’s Hilton Head event, November 5, 2016.
Chassis No.
115695792
Estimate:
$ 30,000 - $ 50,000 US
The Volkswagen Beetle was introduced to the United States in 1950. The car was designed by Ferdinand Porsche who was directed to build a “peoples car” for Germany. This German built, 1965 Volkswagen Beetle was the recipient of a frame-off restoration. The restoration on the Beetle was completed by Eddie Martinez. Eddie Martinez worked at the shop of George Barris in the early '90s. The exterior of this Beetle is finished in a lovely hue of blue with stunning brightwork. The exterior is further exemplified with whitewall tires, factory wheel covers, painted steel wheels and rear-mounted luggage rack.
Car top tents or open air tents have become recently popular as an added form of adventure. They mount to the top of the car and create a one-off camping experience. However, this form of camping has been around since the late '50s with some of the earliest examples found in Italy. This Beetle has fixed to the roof a restored Dove Lodgette car top tent. When the tent is not in use, it folds down into a manageable, low-profile piece atop the roof. When the tent is put together it has a manageable amount of headroom and a canopy extends over the passenger side of the car.
Behind this Beetle is a very rare 1961 Trailorboat Trailer. It is believed that 300 of these were originally produced and less than 20 are now known to exist. These Trailorboats were constructed in California for only a few years; and they were constructed from fiberglass. What makes these trailers so unique is the fact that the top of the trailer is a boat. There is a small Johnson outboard motor fixed to the neck of the trailer and when the boat is unbuckled from the top of the trailer, the two are connected to make a complete powered-boat. The inside of the trailer is currently set up for sleeping with bedding.
The three elements in this package deal are all quite unique. The nicely restored Beetle, car top tent and Trailorboat Trailer are a combination that is hardly ever seen in one package. This example would be a prime candidate to draw attention at a car show; or to use for a nice weekend getaway.
