Despite first rolling off the assembly line more than 50 years ago, this 1974 Volkswagen Super Beetle retains an appealing factory-style sensibility that makes you realize just how distinctive this model remained as it evolved through the decades. It's dressed in dark blue paint that suits it nicely and upon closer inspection you'll see that its collection of chrome brightwork looks clean and well-aligned. If you're wondering if this classic's "Super Beetle" designation is a mere marketing ploy, rest assured that it isn't. This '74 is a little longer and wider than the Beetles you normally see on the road, and its vented front air dam is fully functional, ushering outside air into the cabin to improve ventilation.
The black vinyl interior retains its stock configuration, with front bucket seats that are in very solid shape and a rear bench that shows only minimal wear. The surrounding steel surfaces inside the cabin look good, and the headliner above is well-fitted and free of any distraction stains or tears. A more compact aftermarket steering wheel replaces the original, and the factory gauges just beyond it are as clear as you could want, and function as intended. An added Blaupunkt AM/FM/CD stereo gives you several audio options and its shared German origin with this vintage VW is a nice added touch.
The driving experience offered by this German classic has to be experienced firsthand to be fully appreciated. Its period-correct 1600-cc engine, likely the original powerplant, fires up right on cue and idles smoother than you might expect. Put it in gear, head down the road and you'll notice it tracks arrow straight and doesn't veer off to either side when its quartet of drum brakes are called upon to stop. By virtue of its Super Beetle configuration, there's an upgraded Macpherson-style strut suspension in front, so the ride is more refined and the handling more exact and nimbler than those in its lesser-equipped counterparts. And, while rust is almost always something to be cautious of in cars more than a half century old, there's no cause for concern here, as a look below will reveal a solid undercarriage with no issues.
HIGHLIGHTS
PERIOD-CORRECT 1600-CC FLAT 4-CYLINDER
1-BARREL BROSOL CARBURETOR
4-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION
MACPHERSON-STYLE STRUT SUSPENSION
PERIOD-CORRECT DRUM BRAKES
DARK BLUE PAINT
BLACK VINYL UPHOLSERY
BLAUPUNKT AM/FM/CD STEREO
MISCELLANEOUS SPARE PARTS INCLUDED
SERVICE MANUALS INCLUDED
With its high-functioning stock drivetrain and upper tier configuration, this 1974 Volkswagen Super Beetle presents an enticing opportunity for the collector with an appreciation for originality and historical significance. Call today!
