What else can be said about the always-cute, always-reliable VW Beetle? Finding a clean one today is not all that easy, and while they're affordable at the moment, given the way VW Bus prices have skyrocketed, it's probably only a matter of time before the Beetle joins them. This 1978 Beetle convertible represents the waning days of the Beetle. Although they were technically still in showrooms into 1980, the writing was on the wall. Fortunately, VW kept the recipe the same, and it offers the same great looks and fun attitude that had always characterized the charming little car from Wolfsburg. White is a classic Beetle color, and it accents the clean, rust-free sheetmetal on this particular example. It shows some patina, but no damage or signs of neglect, and for a Volkswagen fan, the important stuff like the A-pillars and floor pans are in good condition and rust-free. Chrome bumpers, oversized parking and tail lamps, and a curved windshield distinguish the Super Beetle, but it'll never be mistaken for anything else. Inside, there's a nicely finished black interior. Perhaps it's original or it may have been fully restored a few years ago, it's hard to tell, but it's all in great shape. The seats are supportive buckets flanked by matching door panels that offer handy map pockets, a useful feature that disappeared way too soon. The single round speedometer with its integral fuel gauge is highly visible and fully functional, reinforcing the Beetle's quirky nature. A Pioneer AM/FM/CD stereo head unit has been fitted in the dash, which also features a burled walnut applique that seems a little out of place here. Overhead, VW's high-quality workmanship is most apparent in the fully insulated and lined convertible top, which folds easily and seals out noise almost as well as a hardtop would. The front trunk area is fully upholstered and there's zero rust in any of the important trouble spots. At 1600cc, the VW flat-four isn't going to win any drag races, but its peppy demeanor and legendary reliability have their own appeal which Volkswagen enthusiasts understand only too well. It's neatly maintained, and offers a carburetor instead of fuel injection, as most VW fans prefer. There are signs of regular maintenance, and if you cover the basics, these cars will practically run forever. It starts quickly with that characteristic VW whistling exhaust sound, and once you master the notoriously vague shifter, you'll discover that it's a blast to drive. The suspension is supple and the body is solid. It appears that someone has recently installed a correct replacement muffler and all the important hoses and ducts are still in place. Standard steel wheels wear brightly polished hub caps as well as correctly-sized 165/80/15 radials. Still inexpensive and fun, the VW Beetle is an iconic car that anyone can afford. Better yet, its simple mechanicals and plentiful parts mean that you can enjoy it practically forever. Call today! This vehicle is located in our Charlotte showroom. For more information, please call (704) 598-2130 or toll free (866) 542-8392.
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