Volkswagen-Powered Dune Buggy

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

California-based Joe Poty Enterprises was one of many companies that sprang up during the beach buggy craze of the 1960s and 70s. This hot new trend led to countless Volkswagen Beetles having their bodies tossed aside in favor of an open-air fiberglass unit affixed to a shortened Volkswagen Beetle chassis. This modification drastically reduced the vehicles’ turning radius and helped keep them from getting hung while cresting sand dunes. Additionally, traction was greatly increased due to the driver's and passengers' weight being positioned closer to the rear wheels.

This Joe Poty dune buggy started as a 1969 VW Beetle sedan but is now fitted with a fiberglass Sand Rover T body, which gets its name from its Ford Model T-inspired hood design. The body is finished in metallic red with a white stripe and features a hinged engine cover, Dietz-style headlights, and teardrop taillights. A roll hoop is also equipped, along with tubular bumpers, reupholstered Porsche 914-sourced seats, and a diamond-plate rear cargo box. Power comes from a 1.6L air-cooled flat-four engine that was reportedly rebuilt under current ownership.

This Volkswagen-powered Dune Buggy is now offered at no reserve on behalf of the current owner with a clean North Carolina title describing it as a 1969 Volkswagen.

Highlights

• Joe Poty Enterprises Sand Rover T fiberglass body

• Hinged engine cover

• Shortened 1969 VW Beetle chassis

• Dual-port 1.6L air-cooled flat-four engine

• Four-speed manual transaxle

• Porsche 914-sourced seats with black and red upholstery

• Coil-over shocks

• Rear disc brakes

• R.J.S. Racing Equipment harnesses

• Diamond-plate rear cargo box

Equipment

• Bosch 009-style distributor

• Single downdraft carburetor

• Alternator charging system

• Dual “megaphone” exhaust system

• Spin-on oil filter adapter

• Aftermarket lower engine tins

• Degree crank pulley

• Fan belt guard

• Oil fill adapter

• Aluminum valve covers

• Urethane shift coupler inserts

• Carbon fiber-look dashboard and side covers

Servicing & Documentation

• From the seller: “The dual-port engine was completely gone through 6 months ago. Body off restoration 5 years ago with all new metal floors. Does not have 25 miles since restoration. Seats newly upholstered [from a] 914 Porsche.”

Known Imperfections

• Marine radio install started, but is incomplete

Ownership History

The buggy was acquired by the current owner in April 2015.