1965 Volkswagen Beetle

Description

The Volkswagen Beetle, officially known as the Volkswagen Type 1, is celebrated for its distinctive shape and remarkable longevity, with production spanning from 1938 to 2003. Never straying far from its simple, utilitarian origins – a rear mounted, air-cooled engine mated directly to the transaxle, a 94.5 inch wheelbase, and independent front, swing axle rear suspension – the Beetle sold in hundreds of thousands in the United States throughout the 1960s. The 1965 Beetle introduced several thoughtful refinements exemplifying the model’s market adaptability. The redesigned greenhouse featured a gently curved windscreen, adeptly addressing issues of glare while simultaneously offering a more expansive view. This was complemented by slimmer A-pillars, newly pivoting sun visors, and enlarged rear and side windows, creating a more airy cabin environment and improving sightlines in all directions. Volkswagen’s ability to evolve the Beetle without compromising its essential character is a strategy that has continued to pay dividends in the model's ongoing popularity.

Highlights 

• Finished in period-correct Bahama Blue (L-519) 

• Replacement air-cooled 1,600cc flat-four installed by marque professionals in May 2022 at 1,251 indicated miles per the consignor 

• Four-speed manual transaxle 

• 12-volt electrics conversion conducted under previous ownership 

• Other restoration work performed since 2019 reportedly includes: 

  • New Nexen SB802 tires 

  • New brakes 

  • New headliner 

  • New trunk cover 

  • New Bluetooth-capable stereo and two front speakers 

  • New window seals 

  • New steering wheel 

Features 

• 15 inch steel wheels with polished covers  

• Chrome bumpers 

• Rubber-lined running boards 

• Driver’s-side rearview mirror 

• Grey cloth and vinyl upholstery 

• Low-back front seats 

• Rear bench 

• Two-spoke steering wheel with chrome horn ring 

• 90 mph VDO speedometer 

• Glove compartment 

• Aftermarket push-button radio 

Known Imperfections 

• Hood has some minor paint chips

• Minor pitting in the front bumper

• Paint chip next to passenger's-side headlight

Included 

• Spare wheel and tire 

• Volkswagen-issued Zertifikat 

Ownership History

This 1965 Volkswagen Beetle was originally built on 10 November 1964 and dispatched to Grand Rapids, Michigan per its Volkswagen-issued Zertifikat. The owner reports acquiring the car in 2019.