1966 Volkswagen Beetle “1300” Coupe
Designer: Dr. Ferry Porsche

Estimate: $12,000 - $17,000

Chassis Number: 116944466
Serial Number Decoded: 11=“Beetle” Sedan; 6=1966 model year; 44466=unit number
Engine: 1285 cc Horizontally Opposed 4-cyl.
1-barrel Carburetor/50 bhp
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Four Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes

Mileage: 13,471 Showing

• Iconic Design with Fitted Roof Rack
• Restored for Driving Pleasure
• Air-Cooled Excitement

The Model: After the end of WWII, what was left of the Volkswagen factory fell into the British sector of a defeated Germany. While the Third Reich had died, the dedication to perfection and post-war success carried on in the post-war days. Using pre-war tooling and meager natural resources, the Volkswagen Type 11 returned to production in late 1946. Constant improvement to the original package was VW’s goal and by 1966, these little “Beetles”, as they were affectionately called, had won the world. For 1966, the new 1300 series was released as well as a number of little things such as ventilated slotted wheels for better cooling of the brakes, four-way emergency flashers, a new style horn-ring and the high-beam headlight control being moved to the turn-signal lever, setting and industry standard. Despite high volume production, build quality was so high that to properly close a door you had to roll the window down a bit due to how tight the fit and finish was.

The Car: This delightful little “Bug” has been given a recent cosmetic restoration as well as a thorough reconditioning of the mechanics. The serial number for this car indicates it was produced at the Wolfsburg plant during the month of May 1966, while the engine, an original “F0” series motor, dates from October 1965. Finished in a two-tone scheme of Bahama Blue with Ivory side inserts, this popular compact is an appealing little machine. With its trademark exhaust, the engine comes to life easily and upon being given a short test drive went through all the gears nicely, with straight steering and quick acting brakes. It is fitted with a period correct AM radio that appears to be a genuine Sapphire unit. Aside from the speedometer, the only other instrumentation is the fuel-level gauge. The interior has been redone in a white vinyl-blue cloth scheme that harmonizes with the exterior finish. And when you want to go on road trip, just throw you bags up on the handy vintage roof rack mounted to this car. A lot of fun is in store for the new owner of this iconic little Beetle.