Volkswagen Beetle

​The Volkswagen Beetle,

particularly the 1965 model, has a rich history and an iconic status in automotive culture. Here is an overview of its story and historical context:

Origins and Development

1. Early History: The Volkswagen Beetle, originally known as the "Volkswagen Type 1," was conceived in the 1930s. The project was initiated by Adolf Hitler, who wanted an affordable car for the masses, hence the name "Volkswagen," meaning "People's Car" in German. Ferdinand Porsche was commissioned to design it, and the first prototypes appeared in 1938.

1. World War II Impact: The Beetle's production was disrupted by World War II. During the war, the Volkswagen factory was repurposed for military vehicle production. However, after the war, the British Army took control of the factory and resumed the production of the Beetle, seeing its potential as an economic car for the European market.

Post-War Success

1. 1950s Expansion: In the post-war era, the Beetle gained popularity across Europe and later in the United States. It was marketed as a reliable, affordable car with a unique design. By the 1950s, it had become a symbol of practicality and durability.

1. 1965 Model Year Features: The 1965 Volkswagen Beetle introduced several significant improvements and changes:

• Increased Engine Power: The engine size was increased to 1.3 liters, providing 50 horsepower, which was a notable increase from previous models.
• Suspension and Handling: The suspension system was upgraded for better handling and a smoother ride.
• Electrical System: The Beetle switched from a 6-volt to a 12-volt electrical system, improving the efficiency and reliability of the car’s electrical components.
• Interior and Exterior Updates: The 1965 model featured a larger windshield, improved heating system, and updated interior designs to enhance comfort.

Cultural Impact

1. 1960s Popularity in the US: By the mid-1960s, the Beetle had become extremely popular in the United States. It was often seen as an anti-establishment car, embraced by the counterculture movement for its simplicity and distinctive appearance. The car was marketed with clever advertising campaigns by the agency Doyle Dane Bernbach (DDB), which emphasized its small size, reliability, and quirky charm.

1. Global Influence: The Beetle’s design remained largely unchanged for decades, which was part of its appeal. Its consistent performance, ease of maintenance, and affordability made it a beloved car worldwide.

Legacy

1. End of an Era: The Beetle continued to be produced with various modifications until 2003, when the last original Beetle rolled off the production line in Puebla, Mexico. It was the longest-running and most-manufactured car of a single design platform anywhere in the world, with over 21 million units produced.

1. Modern Revival: Volkswagen introduced the "New Beetle" in 1997, a modern reinterpretation of the classic design, and later, the "Beetle A5" in 2011. These models paid homage to the original while incorporating contemporary automotive technology and design elements.

Conclusion

The 1965 Volkswagen Beetle is remembered as a pivotal model year that combined the car's traditional design with key improvements that enhanced its performance and appeal. The Beetle’s enduring legacy is a testament to its innovative design and its significant cultural impact over the decades. It remains a symbol of automotive history and a beloved classic among car enthusiasts.

This car was German built original right hand drive car for the Ceylon market in 1965 where the car was until 2018 when it was imported to the UK, so a totally rust-free car.

The car was purchased while in still in Sri Lanka and a large amount of the restoration was carried out there and imported into the UK in 2018, where it is now UK registered and all UK taxes paid.

Details of the work carried out

1. Right hand drive

2. Electric Power Steering

3. Upgraded Four discs brakes (front and rear) with performance pump

4. New Michelin tires and white walls

5. Tubeless tires

6. Front Axle beam adjustors

7. PG paint system -Period correct colour (VW Bahama 1965 Blue)

8. Fuel tank restored with POR-15 inner coating

9. Upgraded Electric window washer (Original spec)

10. Sound proofing - Roof/Floor/Engine Bay

11. Fireproofing engine bay

12. Full re-trim interior Seats/Door cards/ Roof liner

13. Fully custom-made carpeting, including front bonnet

14. Original VW 6V radio (for display only)

15. High Powered Pioneer Sound system/DAB in Glovebox with under seat subwoofer

16. Bluetooth handsfree

17. Three Point Inertia front seat belts

18. Three Point Inertia rear seat belts with middle lap belt

19. ISO fix on rear seats

20. Reversing camera (Screen in glovebox)

21. Upgraded to 5A Alternator 12V conversion with 12V flywheel, clutch and pressure plate 22. 12 electrical wiring

23. 12V Bosch start motor

24. Electronic Distributor with vacuums advance

25. Heat Resistant Epoxy Bosch coil

26. Engine rebuilt with new Pistons, valves,etc.

27. Upgraded Oil pump with oil filter

28. E17 complaint fuel hoses, currently running BP ultimate 97

29. Reverse light with reverse gearbox switch

30. New Stainless steel bumpers front/rear

31. New Stainless-steel hubcaps/wheel covers

32. Bills/invoice for parts from WV Heritage, KJ, Custom and commercial. etc.

33. Comprehensive restoration - Fully bare metal nut and bolt restoration.

34. Original metal on the car.

35. No corrosion or rusting.

36. Full Rust protection on Chassis and floor with POR15 system

37. Birth Certificate from WV Germany (Matching Engine, chassis number confirmation)

38. Mileage 15093