Split window Beetle for sale UK

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This Volkswagen Beetle ‘Zwitter’ is a rare mid-transition example of the charming classic, produced for only five months between 1952 and 1953 with the older split-window and new-type dashboard and trim items. Presented in an appealing colour scheme and reported to be in fine mechanical health, this Beetle would make a superb addition to any enthusiast’s collection, as well as a characterful companion for weekend drives and classic car shows.  

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details. 

The VW Beetle classic is an economy car that was manufactured by the German automobile manufacturer Volkswagen between 1938 and 2003. There are still approximately 17,000 classic Beetles navigating British highways. eBay is the place to search for cheap classic VW Beetles for sale.

What VW Beetle models are available?

The original Beetle prototype was powered by an air-cooled four-cylinder, boxer diesel engine. When Volkswagen began mass manufacturing classic VW Beetles for sale in the UK and elsewhere, most models used petrol as fuel:

  • Volkswagen Type 1: The Volkswagen Type 1 was a two-door frame with a rear engine and a four-speed manual transmission. The dashboard beneath its flat front windscreen consolidated the vehicle’s various sensors and instruments within a circular dashboard. The Cabriolet, a convertible version of this car, was introduced in 1948.
  • 1950–1959 VW Beetle classics: Hydraulic brakes became an option for buyers during this time. The crankshaft was redesigned, which increased the vehicle’s speed without jeopardising its mileage. The instrument panel was also redesigned.
  • 1960–1969 VW Beetle classics: A new engine was introduced, which further enhanced the Beetle’s speeds. These new models also incorporated a single-barrel Solex carburetor linked to an electric automatic choke so that automatic transmission could be offered as an option. Some of these models featured oval and split windscreens.
  • 1970–1979 VW Beetle classics: For the first time, two Beetle models were released. Both models used an upgraded 1600-cubic-centimetre engine with twin-port cylinder heads and a larger, relocated oil cooler. The new model had a significantly larger boot, which nearly doubled its carrying capacity.

How do you determine the value of a classic VW Beetle for sale in the UK?

It is not as easy to find a classic VW Beetle for sale under 1000 as it once was. Split Window Beetles for sale in the UK have become highly collectible. If the Beetle can be driven, it’s likely to have a higher value than a Beetle that cannot be driven.

Like most other vintage cars, classic VW Beetles’ bodies are prone to rusting. Vehicles free of rust may have higher values. Rust damage can be repaired, but those costs should be factored into the overall budget you have set aside for restoring the automobile.

Can you insure a cheap classic VW Beetle for sale?

Yes, you can insure a classic VW Beetle although you may have to deal with an insurance company that specialises in insurance for classic automobiles. Expect to pay more as a daily driver than you would if you were driving a newer motor vehicle.

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How much is a split window Beetle worth?

The current auction record for a Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle "Split-Window" Standard Sedan is $66,000 which was achieved for the 1952 model below by RM-Sothebys. The current auction record for a Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle 'Split-Window' Standard Sedan is $66,000 which was achieved for the 1952 model below by RM-Sothebys.

Which Beetle is the rarest?

Its main identity is its horns that come out of its blackhead. Its average size is between 2 and 4.8 inches. A few years ago a Japanese breeder sold his Stag Beetle for $89,000 (approximately Rs. 65 lakh).

How much does a 68 Beetle cost?

Prices rose slightly with the 1968 Beetle Deluxe Sedan at $1699, the Sunroof Sedan at $1789 and the Cabriolet at $2099.

What was the last year of the split window bug?

The split window was offered from 1939 until 1952. Interestingly, some of the most valuable Beetles are the last years of the split window. These were the most modern Beetles of the time, but still retained the split window.