1973 VW Beetle - Käfer 1300

Charming everyday classic

Extensively restored

Effortlessly cool colour scheme

Sliding sunroof

The Volkswagen Beetle 1300 belongs to the later stages in the development of the hugely successful rear-engined classic, which had been continuously refined over the years. For the 1973 model year, the Beetle 1300 was powered by the familiar 1.3-litre flat-four, producing 44 hp from 1,285 cc. Power was transmitted through a fully synchronised four-speed gearbox.

Typical of Beetles from this period was the combination of the classic body shape with the numerous technical and safety improvements introduced over the years.

Within the Beetle range, the 1300 occupied an interesting middle ground. It retained the traditional character of the model while benefiting from the level of technical development it had by then achieved. Despite the larger 1303 and the various export and special-edition models, the conventional 1300 remained an important part of the German range. Even in the early 1970s, the Beetle thus maintained its special position as a practical, robust and mechanically straightforward Volkswagen.

This Volkswagen Beetle 1300 is an exceptional example of just how appealing a supposedly simple classic can be. Originally based in Belgium, it later made its way to Tyrol, where it was granted individual type approval by the Tyrolean provincial authorities in 2024.

The combination of turquoise metallic paint and the Beetle’s familiar shape gives it a particularly attractive appearance. A sliding sunroof, second exterior mirror and period radio complete the specification nicely.

Its real highlight, however, is its condition. The Beetle has clearly been restored at considerable expense and with no obvious corners cut. Wherever one looks – bodywork, paint, chrome, interior or smaller details – the overall impression is remarkably cohesive and of a very high standard. Indeed, the quality of the work can make it seem as though the Beetle left the factory only recently.

And therein lies much of its appeal. It is ‘only’ a Beetle – but one that presents itself remarkably well. Friendly, uncomplicated and entirely free of pretension, it can simply be enjoyed without having to explain oneself. Then there is its agreeable everyday usability: get in, start it up and off you go. A charming classic that brings plenty of pleasure and presence without stirring up the slightest hint of envy. A Beetle, in other words. In this case a particularly good one.