This 1966 Volkswagen Beetle, said by the seller to have been restored in 2020, was imported to the U.S. from Colombia. It certainly shows the touch of a customizer, with its repaint and interior outfitted with modern, leather-covered seats. The car has in addition been equipped with the modern conveniences of power windows and door locks, a rear-vison camera, and rear speakers. The seller says the Beetle “runs and drives extremely well” and that “it was thoroughly reviewed by a mechanic who found no mechanical issues.” He does not indicate if there is documentation for inspection and service work. No claim is made for the accuracy of the odometer mileage shown.

The seller reports that this car has the “1300” engine, which increased output by 25 percent for 1966. In VW’s practice of continuously improving a car that didn’t seem to change, other improvements for 1966 included ball joint steering arm connections, torsion spring leaves increased from eight to 10, a single key to unlock and start the car, headlight dimmer switch moved to the turn signal, a half-circle horn ring, and windshield wipers that rested on the left side when turned off.

POWERTRAIN

The car wears a “1600” badge from a later Beetle (possibly the entire engine hood), but the seller affirms it has the 1.3-liter (1,285-cc) engine. The air-cooled OHV flat-four was rated at 50 horsepower by the manufacturer when new. The seller reports no issues with starting, nor any leaks or weeps. He does not indicate issues with the four-speed manual transmission. The battery was replaced in November 2022, per the seller.

EXTERIOR

The seller says there is “no rust evident” on the car and that “the body is in good condition, as it’s been kept in optimal storage conditions.” Photos show some chips in the dark blue metallic paint, as well as orange peel. He reports no cracks or scratches for the glass and says seals are good with no leaks. The lights “work as designed.” The car features chrome headlight hoods, a popular custom addition to Beetles in the past. Photos show a generally clean underside, with some spots of rust.

INTERIOR

The Beetle’s interior has been redone with modern seats covered in beige perforated leather, along with a matching headliner and door panels. The carpeting is also reportedly new as part of the restoration and shows no holes or worn areas. The Beetle didn’t have much in the way of interior trim, but the seller affirms that all original knobs and switches are present and functional. The speedometer and fuel gauge are said to work properly. Power windows and locks have been installed and have no reported issues. The seller says a rear vision camera is connected to the rearview mirror. The AM/FM stereo appears to be an old unit, and the car has speakers installed in the rear shelf. The windshield visor was tinted to match the paint, the seller states.

CHASSIS

The seller says that the Beetle’s suspension service history is unknown. The aftermarket 15-inch wheels appear to be painted steel in an older style and are wider than stock. Three tires are Hankook Optimo H415 (185/R6515) showing 2007 DOT date codes, while the right rear tire is a different Hankook Kinergy EX with a 2008 date code. All should be replaced due to age if the car is to be driven. The seller does not report issues for the steering or brakes.