1959 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE

This 1959 Volkswagen Beetle De Luxe is a remarkable early example of a beloved and recognisable classic, benefiting from a sympathetic restoration. It is powered by the 36hp 1192cc air-cooled flat-four engine, driven through the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. The odometer currently indicates 64,308 miles.

First registered in September 1959, this Beetle was supplied by main agent Isaac Agnew Ltd of Belfast. The original invoice on file confirms that the car was delivered in red, and was in the De Luxe specification. This Beetle saw regular use for some 35 years in single ownership, until its first keeper gave up driving. From 1993 until 2004, the car was put through a comprehensive restoration, which was well documented with photographs. It has been with its current keeper for five years.

The bodywork of this recognisable VW has been fully refurbished and resprayed with attractive red paintwork, which presents with just some minor bubbling around the front end, wheel arches and roof, as well as one or two minor stone chips in the same areas. The chrome bumpers and body trims appear to be in good shape, while the vehicle rides on a set of pristine 15-inch wheels.

Inside, the re-trimmed grey vinyl upholstery is in exceptional condition, retaining a clean and tidy appearance and presenting with minimal wear. The vinyl-clad door cards are in similar condition, while the red-painted metal dashboard is free of any scuffs or scrapes. The central speedometer has some marks on the outer glass, though the surrounding chrome trim complements the red finish very well. No electrical faults have been detected, though the vendor notes that the vehicle can be reluctant to restart when the engine is warm.

It is now around 17 years since the restoration was completed, but the car has only covered some 3,000 miles in that time, and is still in very good mechanical order. Long since exempt from mandatory testing, the most recent MOT inspection was on 5 July 2013 at 63,909 miles, which resulted in a pass with one advisory to monitor worn front suspension joints. The wheels come wrapped in a set of Federal Super Steel tyres, which are reported to be in good condition.

Accompanying the vehicle are the original handbooks, along with more than 60 restoration photographs and some invoices, and even the wonderful original new car sales invoice from 1959. An elegant vintage Sirram dining set is kept in a case in the boot, which will also be supplied.

This 1959 VW Beetle is an wonderful example of a beloved classic, which benefits from a previous restoration and which is finished in a charming colour scheme. Still one of the most recognisable cars on the road today, this Beetle is sure to get more than a few admiring glances, whether it’s used as a quirky daily driver or reserved for special occasions.

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All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.