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Seller
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tampagarage
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Location
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Odessa, FL
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Vehicle Make/Model
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Volkswagen Beetle
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Vin No.
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1172091504
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Interior
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Slate Leatherette
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Mileage
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124
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Engine
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1,584cc OHV Air-Cooled 4-Cylinder
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Transaxle
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4-Speed Manual Transaxle
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Suspension
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4-Wheel Independent Suspension
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Brakes
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4-wheel Drum Brakes
1977 Volkswagen Beetle
Immediately recognizable around the world, the Volkswagen Beetle stands as one of the most iconic and impactful vehicles in automotive history. Conceived during the Second World War, the Beetle was intended as basic family transportation, being inexpensive and easy to maintain, but eventually inspired great loyalty and enthusiasm based on its practicality, reliability, and affordability. One of the highest produced vehicles of all time with over 21.5 million produced, the Beetle is a cult classic, adored by young and old alike.
This particular Volkswagen Beetle was delivered new to Los Angeles, California on June 21, 1977. Specially ordered for the wife of the original purchaser, this Beetle was finished in Bahama Blue Metallic with Slate leatherette interior and fitted with a sunroof, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio.
Records describe the Beetle as being driven twice, covering a total of 108 miles, before being placed into storage where it would remain under the same ownership for nearly 32 years. The Beetle was purchased from the first owner in 2009 by Volkswagen of Van Nuys, California. An appraisal completed in 2009 describes the Beetle in outstanding original condition throughout and accompanies the car as a snapshot of its condition after being unseen for three decades.
In recent years, this Beetle has traded hands between collectors until settling into a tasteful collection of European cars in Tampa, Florida. Under its current ownership, the Beetle has been regularly maintained in running and driving condition. The most recent mechanical work completed to the car was a fuel system cleaning and service done under current ownership in 2019.
Offered now with just 124 miles logged on the odometer at the time of cataloging, this is a rare opportunity to purchase an incredibly well preserved example of one of the world’s most iconic and beloved automobiles.
Exterior
Painted Bahama Blue Metallic, the paint finish and body of this Beetle remains in excellent original condition still wearing its factory finish, further supporting the care that has been given to this car throughout its life. Small scratches and imperfections can be seen throughout but require the inspection of a detailed eye.
A close look around the car shows minor pitting in the chrome finish on the front bumper while the car’s bright work, seals, windows, and ancillary components remain untouched and unaffected with age. The wheels are stamped with the date code 5/77, in line with the Beetle’s build date. The thin coating of paint is visibly flaking in certain areas of the wheels but overall, there are very few signs of use and age.
Interior
Trimmed in Slate Leatherette, the interior of this Beetle presents in nearly showroom fresh condition. With very few miles driven, the interior is understandably well preserved with no visible signs of use anywhere in the cabin. The dashboard, gauges, door panels, seats, headliners, and all accessory components all remain in excellent condition.
When lifting the seat bottoms, the factory assembly sheet is tucked nicely into the seat springs. Upon a closer look beneath the rubber floor mats, the body of the Beetle remains structurally sound. The only visible sign of this Beetle’s age is the minor discoloration visible in portions of the seat coverings.
Engine and Drivetrain
This Beetle retains the air cooled, fuel injected 1,854 cc flat 4 engine it was fitted with when manufactured, stamped with the engine number AJ 118610 and mated with a 4-speed manual transaxle.
As seen in a cold start video, the engine starts up quickly and runs smooth after years of regular maintenance. The seller states that the fuel system was gone through in 2019, a sign of the care taken to keep this Beetle in continual road worthy operation. A view of the engine compartment reveals a view of the dealer installed air conditioning compressor.
Trunk and Storage Compartment
A look into the storage compartment under the hood shows an untouched spare tire, original to this Beetle. In addition to excellent cosmetic condition of the spare tire, floor liner, and all other components found under the hood, the body in this area appears in new, uncompromised structural condition.
Underside
The underside of this Beetle shows few signs of the car’s age. Mechanical components that were lightly sealed with paint or left unfinished at the factory are now showing visual signs of surface oxidation, however there is no indication of rust present that would compromise the functionality of any of the car’s operations. Photos of the underside of the car show an honest representation of how the car sits today.
Documentation and Spares
Included in this auction is the Owner’s Manual, an appraisal of the Beetle completed in 2009, factory literature, original spare tire, tire iron and vehicle jack. A certificate from Volkswagen Classic Parts is also included with the sale, confirming the factory color and interior combination, build specifications, and confirming a delivery date of June 21, 1977 to Los Angeles, California.
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