Auction ended.

1978 Volkswagen Super Beetle Cabriolet

Sold for on 05/29/25
1978 Volkswagen Super Beetle Cabriolet

Ended May 29, 2025 at 8:51 PM UTC

Chassis/VIN1582038454
Mileage indicated6,331 Miles TMU
LocationHuntsville, Alabama
Engine1.6-liter Flat-Four
TransmissionManual
Body StyleConvertible

Addenda and errata

  • Please note a comment has been posted that details how an onsite inspection can be granted for Hagerty Marketplace registered bidders.

  • Please note although the engine cover says fuel injection on it, this 1978 Volkswagen Super Beetle Cabriolet is now powered by a carbureted engine.

  • Please note a new YouTube video has been added.

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Huntsville, Alabama — or “Rocket City,” as we know it — is home to NASA rocket-propulsion research and development. Nothing quite encapsulates the launch and excitement of the region as this out-of-world collection of cars including movie cars and tributes, desirable classics, and a rocket truck itself. 3… 2… 1… These cars are ready for blastoff, and all will be launched to new homes and garages as all lots are presented with NO RESERVE.   

* * *  

Some automobiles just seem to be made for summer, like Volkswagen’s Super Beetle Convertible. The Beetle has gained an unequaled reputation as one of the best-selling and most instantly recognizable motor vehicles of all time. And the Super Beetle, introduced in 1971, kept the Beetle viable in a growing market of compact competitors, improving comfort and practicality with a more powerful 1600 cc engine, MacPherson strut front suspension, and a larger storage area.   

Yet, it’s the Convertible that elevates the driving experience, offering an unparalleled connection to the elements. Inside, the Super Beetle Convertible exudes practicality and charm, comfortably accommodating up to four passengers while delivering the moon, the sun, and the stars with the top down. But the Super Beetle’s renown rear engine traction and fully insulated convertible top also makes it a capable four-season performer.  

Motor Trend magazine tested a Super Beetle convertible and reported, “The Super Beetle convertible is an admirable blend of rational automotive engineering and ‘cars-aren’t-just-for-transportation’ thinking. For someone who wants a simple, economical, reliable automobile that’s also fun to drive and as relaxing as a day at the beach, the VW convertible is just about the perfect choice.”  

Highlights 

  • Offered by The Rocket City Collection 

  • Powered by a rebuilt, rear-mounted 1.6-liter air-cooled flat-four-cylinder engine  

  • Refinished in white (originally red) with a white vinyl soft top  

  • White vinyl bucket seat interior  

  • Four-speed manual transmission  

  • The chassis number (1512935370) decodes as:  

    • 1 – Type 1 (Beetle)  

    • 5 – Super Beetle Convertible (LHD – USA, Canada)  

    • 8 – Model Year 1978  

    • 2038454 – Plant sequence number beginning at 2000001 

Features 

  • Iconic rounded shape 

  • Running boards 

  • Front disc and rear drum brakes 

  • Pioneer AM/FM/CD stereo with MP3 and WMA 

Known Imperfections 

  • Multiple paint chips, cracks, and flaking, inside and out 

  • Surface rust on door hinges 

  • Small holes in headliner 

  • Clock does not work

  • Slight smell of fuel 

  • Corrosion in front trunk 

  • Aggressive rust spots evident on driver's side inner front fender wells

Included 

  • Keys 

Ownership History 

This 1978 VW Super Beetle Cabriolet joined The Rocket City Collection in December 2023. 

Additional Notes 

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty. 

Contact: Ramsey Potts  Phone: 912.508.4096  email: rpotts@hagerty.com

All auction listings on Hagerty Marketplace are created using information provided by the seller. The Marketplace team and the seller have reviewed all information for accuracy to the best of their abilities. Bidders are ultimately responsible for conducting their own due diligence before placing a bid, including verifying details, condition, registration requirements, and compliance with applicable laws. For any questions or additional information, contact the seller.

1978 Volkswagen Super Beetle Cabriolet · No reserve


Sold to
$6,300
EndedMay 29, 2025 at 8:51 PM UTC
Bids25
Views10,496

Bids
RDMotors' avatar
May 29, 2025 at 8:49 PM
$5,800bid placed 
TomEdens_gbi0's avatar
May 29, 2025 at 8:48 PM
$5,550bid placed 
JamesHancock_103090's avatar
May 29, 2025 at 8:30 PM
$5,300bid placed 
Ted's avatar
May 29, 2025 at 6:39 PM
$4,800bid placed 
Moonfry's avatar
May 29, 2025 at 12:04 PM
$4,700bid placed 

Comments

Please or Register to add comment

No comments yet.

Why Hagerty Marketplace?

Hagerty Marketplace is the ultimate destination for buying and selling vehicles online.
  • Get expert support from start to finish.
  • All buyers and sellers are verified.
  • Access trusted valuation data for pricing help.

What our customers say

Colleen S.
Seller
...my experience with Hagerty was impeccable. Their oversight was professional, patient, immediate and comforting.
1969 Citroen DS21 Pallas
Sold for $31,984 on 8/19/25

Get the Marketplace daily email

Keep tabs on classic cars for sale, recent transactions, and featured lots and listings.