Chassis No. 1-0434015

Body No. 372694

Engine No. 1-0462264

The Volkswagen Beetle is a car of such iconic status that it must be considered among the most, if not the most, important cars of the 20th century. What started as a "people's car" for Germany, with the design genius and engineering influence of Ferdinand Porsche, withstood the test of time to such an extraordinary degree that the Beetle didn't truly cease world-wide production until 65 years and 21 million units after it was produced. These were impressive numbers, but in the earliest days of post-war Western Europe interest was modest to start. Soon, however, demand grew for a fuel-efficient, well-constructed vehicle. A few short years later, the United States would also experience the concept of a small and economical foreign car.

It may be tough to imagine now, but those in the United States who were early adopters of the Volkswagen marque may be considered pioneers in their own right. Such was likely the case for the original owner of this 1953 Volkswagen sold two years before Volkswagen had established an official U.S. sales arm. Produced in Wolfsburg in January 1953, this particular Beetle was delivered to the United States, one of approximately 800 units delivered that year. This so-called "Zwitter," features the rear split-window body of the earliest Beetles while simultaneously possessing the updated dashboard and creature comforts of the upcoming oval window cars. These special vehicles were produced for only six months between October 1952 and March 1953. Evidence of previous Florida-based ownership is evident from a state inspection decal located inside the front windshield issued in 1975. Over two decades old at that point, it was already likely treasured for what was rarely seen then, let alone today - an impressively original, well-kept split-window Type 1 Beetle.

Offered today from a Northeast United States automotive museum, this rare Type 1 has been inspected by a Broad Arrow Group specialist. They note that the Beetle starts easily, idles smoothly, and revs freely. A short test drive resulted in easy shifting between the gears, secure clutch engagement, and a firm brake pedal. It is no secret that Volkswagen Beetles are highly praised for their technical and operational simplicity. Early examples of the marque pay homage to the original Porsche design and are therefore highly sought after. This particular "Zwitter" has wonderful presence, an attractive and timeless body design, and a period color combination harkening back to Volkswagen's earliest days in America.