1973 Volkswagen Beetle

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

In 1968, the ubiquitous Volkswagen Beetle received its most notable update yet, introducing vertical sealed beam headlights, bigger and higher bumpers, and both 1,300 cc and 1,500 cc models. Taillights grew larger with reversing lights, push-button door handles appeared, and the spring-loaded fuel filler cap was finally moved to the fender from under the hood. These updates would carry the standard Beetle to the end of North American production in 1979. Forever fixed as a cultural symbol of the 1960s, the Beetle is beloved for its simple, robust construction, cheerful design, and ease of ownership. Today, they continue to attract a happy-go-lucky contingent of owners who enjoy memorable weekend cruises and grabbing attention at local car shows. 

Highlights

• Tastefully restored with a pre-1968 appearance including chromed bumpers with over riders, smaller tail lights, and slanted headlights with integrated turn signals 

• Consignor reports repairing the bodywork before conducting a single-stage Omni repaint in its current shade of green

• Consignor reports rebuilding the dual-port 1,600 cc flat-four engine and balancing the rotating assembly

• Four-speed manual transmission was reportedly degreased and received new gaskets and seals, as well as a new clutch throw-out bearing during the restoration

• Other restoration highlights reported by the consignor include:

  • Solex 34 PICT-3 carburetor rebuilt by VolkzBitz

  • All new brakes and wheel bearings

  • New fuel filter with bracket relocated to transaxle away from the coil

  • New generator 

  • New wiring harness

  • New oil cooler

  • New fuel tank, tank seals, and sending unit 

  • New front lowering spindles and front sway bar

  • New door handles and door seals

  • New headlight and tail light assemblies 

• Rides on new steel wheels wearing chrome covers and mounted with Coker Classic white-wall tires

• This Beetle is offered with the five-digit odometer currently displaying just 54 miles at the time of listing; however, the true mileage is unknown

Features

• Driver’s side exterior rear-view mirror

• Rear bench seat

• Dual sun visors

• Aftermarket JVC stereo

• Battery toggle switch 

• Clifford alarm with door actuators 

• Roller accelerator pedal

• ISP speedometer

• ISP fuel gauge

• Ivory two-spoke steering wheel

• Door map pockets

• Manual roll-up windows

• Vent windows

• Lap seatbelts

• Dual exhaust outlets

Known Imperfections

• Windshield wiper motor is installed but not wired

• Needs front air box and drain tube to channel water under the car – the consignor notes he covers the vent when washing and does not drive in inclement weather

Included

• Parts invoices

Ownership History

The consignor acquired this Beetle in 2016 from a machinist in Monterey, California, who is said to have completed some repair work to the floor pans and shift tunnel. The consignor reports disassembling the car and commencing the restoration shortly after acquiring it.

Optional vehicle service contract available for $1,000. Learn more about the program here. *Sales tax may be applicable.