Description
Volkswagen Beetle 1500 Cabriolet | 1970
Highlights:
- Classic 1500cc air-cooled 4-cylinder engine
- Valid technical inspection certificate
- In long-term family ownership since 2001
- Garage stored with regular servicing
The seller offers for sale a 1970 Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet equipped with a 1500cc petrol engine and manual transmission. With its iconic air-cooled four-cylinder layout, rear-wheel drive, and timeless convertible shape, this example represents one of the most recognisable cars of the 20th century. The vehicle is finished in a traditional color scheme and comes with Dutch registration papers and a historical license plate.
Mechanically, the car starts with difficulty due to a dead battery, though when functional, it shows no signs of engine smoke or abnormal noises. The gearbox shifts smoothly without issue, and the lights and indicators are reported to work. The car currently holds a valid technical inspection and is noted to be roadworthy, though some attention may be needed to bring it back into regular use.
The paintwork is in fair condition with visible imperfections. There are some scratches and minor rust spots, particularly on the fenders and under the rear left bumper. These blemishes suggest the car may benefit from cosmetic repair but do not detract from its classic appearance. Despite its age, the body remains largely intact and true to its original shape.
Inside, the cabin retains its original charm with some wear expected from over five decades of age. The front seats with high backs don’t tilt forward easily, suggesting the hinges require attention. The floor mats at the front are also worn and may need replacing. Otherwise, the interior is tidy and functional, in line with the car’s age and use.
The Volkswagen Beetle was first conceived in the 1930s as a “people’s car” (Volkswagen in German), but it wasn’t until after World War II that production ramped up and the car gained popularity globally. By 1970, the Kever had become a worldwide icon, known for its distinctive rounded shape, durable engineering, and affordable price tag. The cabriolet version, produced by Karmann, offered the same utilitarian charm with the added joy of open-top driving.
The 1500cc model offered slightly more performance than earlier versions, making it more suitable for modern traffic while retaining the air-cooled simplicity that owners came to love. These cars were also known for their robust mechanicals, and many examples have survived due to their ease of maintenance and availability of parts.
Over time, the Beetle gained cult status, symbolizing freedom, counterculture, and post-war optimism. The cabriolet, in particular, became a favourite for summer drives and remains popular among classic car enthusiasts to this day. With their timeless shape and distinctive engine note, few classics offer the same level of nostalgia and ease of ownership.
This 1970 cabriolet, with its Dutch origin and long-term family history, is a charming example of the type. It provides a foundation for light restoration or continued enjoyment in its current state, especially for those looking to enter the classic car scene with an affordable and recognisable icon.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
3. Good: Repairs to the bodywork and paint may be needed, possibly requiring part replacements.
Condition of the Interior
3. Good: Shows typical wear; may require some repairs or part replacements.
Technical Condition
3. Good: Generally reliable, but may need some maintenance or repairs.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in North Holland province, the Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
