The Chevrolet Corvette is an icon of the American sports car and the Ford Mustang has represented pure fun since 1965, but neither have been around longer that the famous Volkswagen Beetle. Introduced before World War II as “The People’s Car,” over 21 million were built before the end in 2003. Indeed, the Beetle enjoys a following all over the world that very few cars can attest to. Some are restored to stock and some are even painted pink, but whatever configuration, there’s no mistaking the iconic design of the Beetle. In the present day millions are still on the road and there are clubs and organizations everywhere that are dedicated to keeping the Beetle alive.
Offered here is a spectacular example of this large chapter in automotive history in the way of a 1956 Beetle that was restored in 2007 by Brim Restorations of Rochester, New Hampshire. This is a high-level and meticulous restoration that features a few tweaks and allows this Beetle to give any Porsche 356 a good run for its money. The 1,914 cc engine was rebuilt by Chico Performance Racing of Arcadia, California and has been dynamometer tested at 135 horsepower. The transmission was rebuilt by Rancho Performance and was retrofitted with the optional “Freeway Flyer” tall ratio highway gear. The beautiful interior was meticulously and fully restored by the renowned Volkswagen specialist Lenny Copp of West Coast Classic Restoration and presents as new. Stopping power is also greatly enhanced by Porsche 356 SC disc brakes all the way around and this Beetle even rides on Fuch Porsche 911 styled rims. This Beetle is finished in the lovely Mango Green and has a sun roof for open air touring. Make no mistake about it, this is a Volkswagen Beetle that is performance-built and ready to run with the best.
The Beetle is an iconic car that represents basic transportation, but this 1956 example takes Volkswagen performance to a whole new level. Volkswagens are rarely restored to the fine level of craftsmanship that this example displays and its stellar performance puts this one in a league of its own. For the very best and fastest of “The People’s Car,” this Beetle is ready for spirited driving of any distance.
