Modified 1978 Volkswagen Super Beetle Convertible

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Some automobiles seem made for summer, like Volkswagen’s Super Beetle convertible. The Beetle has gained an unequaled reputation as one of the best‑selling and most 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 engine, MacPherson strut front suspension, and a larger cargo capacity.

Yet the convertible model elevates the experience, offering an unparalleled connection to the elements. Inside, it exudes practicality and charm, comfortably seating four while delivering the moon, sun, and stars with the top down. The Beetle’s rear‑engine traction and insulated top also make it a capable four‑season performer.

Motor Trend magazine tested the new 1303 VW convertible in 1973 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.”

This ’78 Super Beetle convertible has been refinished in Burnt Orange Metallic over black and tan vinyl upholstery and has been fitted with a replacement engine said to be sourced from a Porsche and bored and stroked to 1,915cc. The features a Weber-style carburetor, Pat Downs Performance Shockwave ignition, and a merged header exhaust with a single "quiet pack" muffler

The car rides on a lowered suspension and features a front strut tower bar, aftermarket audio equipment, an EMPI trigger shifter, billet bumpers, and aftermarket exterior lighting.

This modified 1978 Volkswagen Super Beetle convertible is now offered at no reserve by the selling dealer with a clean Florida title.

Highlights

• Offered from the Burnyzz Collection of May vehicles

• Replacement 1.9-liter air-cooled flat-four engine

• Weber-style progressive carburetor

• Pat Downs Performance Shockwave ignition

• Merged header exhaust with single "quiet pack" muffler

• Refinished in metallic orange with a tan vinyl soft top

• Black and tan vinyl upholstery

• Four-speed manual transaxle

• Lowered suspension

Factory Equipment

• MacPherson strut front suspension

• Bucket seats with integrated headrests

• Rear bench seat

• The chassis number (1582057132) decodes as:

  • 1 – Type 1 (Beetle)

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

  • 8 – Model Year 1978

  • 2057132 – Plant sequence number beginning at 2000001

Modifications

• Weber-style progressive carburetor

• Pat Downs Performance Shockwave ignition

• Merged header exhaust with single "quiet pack" muffler

• Billet aluminum bumpers

• Tri-bar headlights with integrated turn signals

• Aftermarket "flat" taillight assemblies

• Shaved exhaust outlet

• EMPI trigger shifter

• Aftermarket steering wheel

• Panasonic CD player

• Rockin speakers

• Front strut tower bar

• Lowered suspension

• 145R15 front tires

• Aftermarket hubcaps and trim rings

• Electric windshield washer conversion

Servicing & Documentation

• The top has been replaced

Known Imperfections

• Scratches and scuffs as shown in the gallery

Ownership History

This 1978 Volkswagen Super Beetle Cabriolet is offered from the Burnyzz Collection of May vehicles.

Additional Information

Disclaimer Provided by Seller: Seller does its best to inspect, drive, and note any known imperfections in the advertisement and pre-sale of vehicles it lists for sale. However, due to the nature of collector automobiles, seller cannot guarantee that every vehicle function, whether electrical or mechanical, will work as it originally did. These components will need upkeep and attention. In addition, often these vehicles can sit for periods of time and once you begin to drive them issues can arise without warning. Please make sure you are comfortable with this before buying a collector or vintage automobile. Seller did NOT build or restore this vehicle. Vehicles are sold AS-IS by seller, with all faults known/unknown and with no implied warranty. Pre-purchase inspections are welcome, and seller simply describes these vehicles to the best of its knowledge.