Description
Volkswagen Beetle 1600 Karmann cabriolet | 1978
Highlights:
- Original US-imported example
- 1600 cc air-cooled engine and manual gearbox
- Dark blue paint
- Original interior with US market features
- Valid technical inspection certificate and ready to drive
The seller offers for sale this 1978 Volkswagen Beetle cabriolet, equipped with a 1600 cc four-cylinder petrol engine and manual transmission. The car was imported from the United States and has been in the seller’s possession in the Netherlands since 2010. With a verified mileage of 79,000 km and Dutch registration documents, it is a well-preserved example of the last generation of air-cooled Beetles.
The paintwork is described as good, featuring a rich dark blue finish. The body presents well and does not require any structural or immediate visual repairs.
Inside, the vehicle retains its original interior with US market features. The seats, carpets, and dashboard are in good condition, with only minimal wear and no significant damage reported. The gauges, lighting, and switches are functional.
This Volkswagen 1600 Karmann Beetle, referred to as the Super Beetle—was introduced in the early 1970s and featured several refinements over the standard Beetle. These included a curved windshield, MacPherson strut front suspension, and improved interior ergonomics. The Karmann Cabriolet, produced in partnership with German coachbuilder Karmann, was the premium convertible version and remained in production even after saloon production ended in Europe.
The Cabriolet combined classic Beetle styling with improved comfort and usability, and it became a favorite among those seeking an open-air driving experience with the reliability of Volkswagen’s proven air-cooled engine. By 1978, it had reached its final evolution, making this example one of the later production models before the end of German manufacturing.
As interest in original air-cooled Volkswagens continues to grow, well-kept examples like this—with documented ownership, good condition, and reliable mechanics—are increasingly sought after. Its combination of classic design, original character, and usability makes this 1303 Karmann Cabriolet a strong candidate for weekend driving, events, or careful collection.
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 Zeeland 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.
