What makes the Beetle truly remarkable is not just the impressive number of units sold, but also the fact that a car originally conceived from an idea by Adolf Hitler would go on to become a beloved icon among Californian surfers, college students, and free-spirited hippies—much as it had been desired by fervent Nazis.
Herbie, the anthropomorphic Beetle that starred in six Hollywood films starting with The Love Bug in 1968, was the same car German families had once hoped to buy, only for their dreams to be dashed by Hitler’s invasion of Poland.
The Beetle’s success can be attributed to its quality, affordability, reliability, economy, and unique design. However, its path to success had been uncertain in 1945. While the concept of the car had been in development since 1934, following a meeting between Hitler and Porsche, the Beetle had not yet entered production before the war.
The vision for the car was to create a small saloon capable of carrying a German family of five at a top speed of 100 kph along the country’s new autobahns.
It was meant to cost 990 Reich Marks, equivalent to 31 weeks’ wages for the average German worker in 1936, making it more affordable than the £100 Fords being manufactured in England.
At the time, 31 weeks’ pay for the average British worker was approximately £100. To purchase one, members of the public had to participate in a special savings program run by the KdF (Kraft durch Freude, or Strength through Joy) organization. In 1938, the car was officially named the KdF Wagen.
Listing:
1963 Volkswagen Beetle is on sale at Classiccars.com for $23,500.
This exceptionally clean and meticulously restored 1963 Volkswagen Beetle has been thoroughly updated to offer both style and reliability.
Its striking turquoise green exterior is in excellent condition and pairs beautifully with the new tan interior. The wide white sidewalls complement the painted wheels and chrome wheel covers, enhancing its vintage charm.
The Beetle has undergone mechanical restoration as well, featuring an updated engine and a rebuilt transmission. Additional equipment includes seat and shoulder belts, an original radio, and an auxiliary heater.
“Concours-level restored 1963 VW Beetle powered by a 1200cc 4-cylinder engine and a 4-speed manual transmission. Every component has been thoroughly inspected and restored, from the drivetrain to the interior. This L380 turquoise-over-beige Bug is also equipped with the optional radio.”
This VW Beetle is fully sorted, turnkey ready, and comes with a clear California title. It is also smog-exempt for easy registration.