Lot Ended
Description
The car
currently shows 67,295 miles; finished in its distinctive Velvet Red; early
Mexican-built example; Electronic ignition ensures easy starting; rustproofed
and Lanosealed in 2024
This highly original
1985 Volkswagen 1200 Beetle is a particularly interesting example of the late
air-cooled Käfer, finished in its distinctive Velvet Red (Samtrot Sonderkäfer)
with an original and beautifully preserved interior. Built in Mexico for the
German market, this early Mexican-built example was subject to the quality
control standards required for export to Germany, and was subsequently purchased
from its original dealership, Willer of Kiel, West Germany, before being brought
to the UK without alteration.
The car currently
shows 67,295 miles, with the odometer accurately converted from the original
kilometre speedometer when changed to miles The vendor has owned the Beetle for
the past two years and has used it as a daily driver, including regular 100-mile
round trips, reporting that it has proved reliable and has never let him
down.
Powered by the familiar 1,200cc air-cooled
flat-four engine, this Beetle is described as running beautifully and is capable
of cruising at around 65mph, with a top speed of approximately 70mph. Electronic
ignition ensures easy starting, while the underside was professionally stripped,
rustproofed and Lanosealed in 2024. Further recent work includes replacement
brake cylinders and pipes in 2026, together with new inlet manifold gaskets and
fuel lines.
The vendor has endeavoured to retain
the car's originality, with its unmarked Velvet Red seats, plastic Wolfsburg
steering wheel, chrome bumpers and Wolfsburg hubcaps all contributing to its
charming period appearance. Practical improvements include a discreet Bluetooth
audio system fitted beneath the dashboard while retaining the original working
radio cassette player, together with a remote-control battery kill-switch
immobiliser and Tile GPS tracker.
The bodywork is
described as very presentable rather than concours, with some minor surface rust
having been treated and repainted where necessary. The paintwork responds well
to polishing and the vendor has deliberately retained the car's original
character and patina rather than undertaking a full restoration. It has also
been displayed at several classic car shows and took part in a classic car rally
last summer.
The accompanying history is
particularly impressive, with comprehensive documentation tracing the car back
to its original dealership in Kiel. The sale includes the original brochure, two
sets of keys with their original leather wallets, receipts for almost all work
carried out since 1985 and a memory stick containing
photographs.
The Beetle has an MOT until November
2026 and, having now reached Historic Vehicle status, benefits from the usual UK
historic vehicle concessions including exemption from MOT testing and road tax,
subject to the applicable rules.
A wonderfully
usable and honest example of one of the world's most recognisable cars, this
1200 Käfer has clearly been loved and used as intended rather than simply stored
away. Its excellent history, originality, attractive Velvet Red finish and
reputation for simple, dependable motoring make it an appealing proposition for
both the enthusiast and collector. The vendor is selling only because he and his
wife are moving to live in their motorhome, and he is keen to see his much-loved
Beetle find a new home where it will continue to be enjoyed.
Contact james.booth@brightwells.com