Description
Volkswagen Beetle 1200 | 1974
Highlights:
– Original seats and upholstery
– Regularly maintained by a Beetle specialist
– Technically in drive-ready condition
– Dutch registration with valid inspection
The seller offers for sale a 1974 Volkswagen Beetle, a two-door coupe variant powered by a 1200cc air-cooled flat-four engine paired with a manual gearbox. This example is reported to have been used only occasionally in recent years. The car has been kept in a garage and is under the care of a specialist familiar with classic Volkswagen models. The car presents as a lightly used vehicle intended for occasional pleasure drives.
The car retains its original mechanical configuration, with no modifications to the drivetrain or structure. Controls and safety systems function as expected. The car holds a valid Dutch registration and is exempt from Dutch car inspection due to its age.
The paint and bodywork are in good condition with small signs of use. Whether the paint is original or redone is unknown, but the surface presents cleanly, with no immediate need for repair.
Inside, the Beetle is largely original. The factory seats are still in place with their original upholstery, and remain intact with only minor signs of wear. A few small scratches are visible on the painted dashboard surface, but the overall presentation is tidy. Three-point seatbelts have been added for safety, mounted in appropriate positions, and could be removed if a more original look is preferred. The ceiling lining is well-fitted and the flooring appears in good shape. Switches, indicators, and lighting systems are functional.
The Volkswagen Beetle, is one of the most iconic cars of the 20th century. Originally conceived in the 1930s and brought to mass production in post-war Germany, the Beetle’s air-cooled engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, and compact design became symbols of simple, reliable motoring. By 1974, the car had undergone numerous small updates but retained its unmistakable silhouette and straightforward engineering.
The 1200cc version was among the most common, balancing modest power with low operating costs. Its simplicity made it popular with mechanics and hobbyists alike, and parts remain widely available. The Beetle’s construction—with a separate chassis and bolted-on body panels—makes it relatively easy to maintain and repair compared to more modern unibody cars.
Although production of the Beetle ceased in Germany in the late 1970s, it continued in other countries for decades, further securing its legacy as the longest-running, most-manufactured car platform in history. Collectors today value originality and structural condition over modifications, and preserved examples with clean interiors and rust-free bodies—like this one—are increasingly hard to find.
As a cultural icon, the Beetle remains popular for its nostalgic appeal and mechanical charm. This example, with its preserved interior and good mechanical health, offers a usable entry into classic car ownership with minimal upkeep demands. Whether driven occasionally on sunny weekends or displayed as part of a vintage collection, it continues to deliver the charm and simplicity that made the model so beloved.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
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 Brabant 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.
