Description
Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet | 1978
Highlights:
- Restored with fresh paintwork and rebuilt engine
- Original interior with authentic upholstery and seats
- Matching numbers with documented mileage
- Dutch registration and valid inspection
- Ready for immediate use
The seller offers for sale this 1978 Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet, presented in restored condition. Powered by a 1600cc air-cooled four-cylinder engine mated to a manual gearbox, the car represents the final evolution of the Beetle convertible. The odometer reads 76,000 km, with documented mileage history. This example has been restored, including an engine rebuild and a repaint. The mechanicals have been refreshed to bring the car into a solid running state, while preserving the model’s originality.
The paintwork does not need immediate additional bodywork or correction. It reflects well and aligns with the restored appearance of the car. The interior retains its original upholstery, including the factory seats and bench, which remain intact and clean. No replacements have been necessary, suggesting a well-preserved cabin that supports the car’s historical authenticity. Electrical features, such as indicators and lighting, are operational, and the car holds a valid Dutch inspection (APK). There are no modern upgrades such as power steering or disc brakes, keeping the mechanicals close to factory specification. The seller confirms the car is road-ready.
The Volkswagen Beetle holds a unique place in automotive history. Initially designed in the 1930s and later mass-produced post-WWII, the Beetle became a symbol of accessible, reliable transport. Over time, the model transitioned from utilitarian workhorse to beloved classic. The convertible version—produced by Karmann in Osnabrück—was particularly popular for its blend of open-air driving and timeless design. By 1978, production had already ended for hardtop Beetles in Europe, but the cabriolet remained available in certain markets until 1980.
With its distinctive rear-mounted engine and rounded body, the Beetle Cabriolet of this era combined vintage charm with practical engineering. These cars offered simplicity in maintenance, widespread parts availability, and strong community support. Their small size and straightforward layout have helped the Beetle maintain its relevance as a beginner-friendly classic, while the cabriolet’s added flair ensures continued desirability among collectors. In recent years, properly restored and documented examples have seen growing interest, especially those preserving original equipment and factory details. The 1600cc engine used in later models like this one provided better cruising ability and reliability than earlier 1200 or 1300 units. Convertible Beetles are often considered one of the best entry points into classic motoring due to their cheerful design, durability, and universal recognition.
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 Gelderland 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.
