1956 VOLKSWAGEN “BEETLE” TYPE 1 SEDAN
Designer: Dr. Ferdinand Porsche

Estimate: $35,000 - ­ $50,000

Chassis Number: 1278491
Decoded: Sequential Number from start of production
Engine: 1192 cc H4
1­-barrel Carburetor / 36 bhp
4­-Speed Manual Transmission
Four Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
Mileage: 61,793 miles

● Fully Restored
● Early Desirable “Oval” Window
● Hard to Find Model in Stock Condition

The Model: Anyone who has been involved in the world of vintage autos pretty much knows that the Volkswagen was designed to be reliable and economical transportation in the ideal pre-WWII Nazi Germany. What many do not realize is that almost single­handed, Volkswagen automobiles going back into production shortly after peace had been declared was a major nucleus for a successful, modern post­war Germany. With over 21 million copies produced, the Beetle literally put the world on wheels from the 1950’s up into the 2000’s. Many early Beetles were sacrificed to become sand and dune buggies, Baja Racers or other purposes. However, a dedicated group of collectors preserve these cars and today the legions of early “Bug” owners is one of the most active in the collector­ car world today. Most sought after were early models with split or oval back windows, attached lights and signals and preferably, no fuel gauge.

The Car: Finding an unmolested example of an early “Oval” window Beetle has become a very rare occurrence over the past 20 plus year, which has driven the collector’s interests to all­ time highs. This sharp example has excellent fit and finish on all sheet metal surfaces, with both door and hatches showing perfect gaps all around. Finished in Prarie Beige, it is complimented by dark tan vinyl seats with the rest of the interior looking just as must have when first delivered to the USA. Under the rear-­mounted hood, the engine appears to be immaculate and is reported to run out quite well with easy shifting. Chrome surfaces all exhibit a deep reflective quality with no signs of dings to other damage. Even the luggage compartment is clean and ready to take on several small suitcases for a quick weekend trip, or a picnic basket for a pleasurable afternoon at the concours.