1979 Volkswagen Super Beetle Convertible Epilogue Edition

Description

“The last of a legend.” The 1979 Volkswagen Super Beetle Epilogue marked the symbolic end of an era for the iconic Beetle in the United States. Introduced as a commemorative edition, the Epilogue was produced during the final months of Beetle convertible manufacturing at Karmann’s Osnabrück, Germany, plant. Its name reflected its role as the last chapter in the Beetle’s U.S. story after more than three decades of continuous production. 

The Epilogue was distinguished by its “triple black” configuration—black paint, black convertible top, and black interior—creating a sleek, elegant look. Each Volkswagen dealer in the U.S. reportedly received only one Epilogue, making it exceptionally rare. Approximately 900 units were built, all based on the Super Beetle Cabriolet platform, which featured MacPherson strut front suspension, improved interior appointments, and a fuel-injected 1.6-liter engine. 

Historically, the Epilogue arrived at a time when Volkswagen was transitioning away from the Beetle toward the front-engine, water-cooled Rabbit (Golf) to meet tightening U.S. emissions and safety standards. The Epilogue serves as a nostalgic farewell, celebrating the Beetle’s enduring charm and cementing its status as one of the most beloved cars in automotive history. As Volkswagen said of the Epilogue, “Limited edition. Unlimited memories.”  

Highlights 

• Limited edition of about 900 units 

• Showing 9,655 miles, while the true mileage is unknown

• Finished in Black (L41) paint with a black fabric convertible top 

• Black vinyl bucket seat interior 

• 1.6-liter air-cooled flat-four engine 

• Four-speed manual transmission 

• The chassis number (1592041746) decodes as: 

  • 15 – Super Beetle Convertible 

  • 9 – 1979 

  • 2041746 – Sequential production number 

Features 

• Fuel injection converted to carburetors (original parts still inside the car)  

• Aftermarket radio 

• MacPherson front struts 

• Rack-and-pinion steering 

• Running boards  

• Front disc and rear drum brakes 

• Adjustable front seats 

Known Imperfections 

• Minor paint scratches 

Included 

• Original fuel injection system

Ownership History 

The consignor of this 1979 Volkswagen Super Beetle Epilogue has owned it since 2009.  

Additional Notes 

Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders: Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida.  Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida.  For additional information, please consult this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.