1978 VW Convertible Champagne Edition II *** 51K Original Miles *** Rare Color

1978 Volkswagen Beetle - Classic

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This auction is for one 1978 VW Convertible Champagne Edition II. I bought this 51K original mile car from the third owner. An amazing survivor vehicle, survivor meaning it's never been fully restored and retains all of it's factory equipment to this day. Aside from a respray and a new top over 20 years ago, this VW is all original. Quite impressive for a vehicle that is almost 40 years old. The interior is all original, all of the body panels, all of the glass including the windshield, all of the chrome trim and bumpers, the floors and support rails, as well as the fuel injected engine and transaxle. Never any welding or cutting done to this vehicle. It stills has the original spare tire which has never been used!
The Champagne Edition II was a special edition in 78 and according to VW publications was limited to 1100 units, or about 2 for each US dealer. They were available in either Ancona Blue Metallic, or Peach Red Metallic like this one. According to online searches, there was less than 300 produced in this Peach Red which makes it quite rare today. These special edition VW's came with Lemmerz GT sports wheels, Ermine (white) upholstery, a Blaupunkt AM FM radio, quartz clock, a padded steering wheel and faux rosewood dash trim. These option set these Beetles apart from a standard convertible in 1978. Amazingly, it still has all of these factory options and the radio and clock are still working!
It was sold new in Taunton Massachusetts from Altenburg VW. Although a New England car, it was never driven in snow or inclimate weather and was always garaged. This car has had a recent freshening up to make it look and drive excellent. It recently had a full tune up, alternator and battery, tires and brakes and a shift rod bushing. All of the fuses were replaced and all of the electrical components were cleaned and checked, so everything functions as normal. All of this work translates into a car that runs, drives, shifts and brakes perfectly. There is something special about a low mileage original car that can't be duplicated in a restored vehicle, and this car has it.
Cosmetically, a thorough cleaning and detailing was applied to the entire vehicle to make it look showroom fresh.
Although the car is quite impressive, it's still almost 40 years old and shows some signs of age. There are a few scratches in the paint here and there that have been touched up. The worst being in the right rear fender by the tail light (see photos). They don't show well in the pics, but they are there. I'm just being honest and picky too. All of the touch ups were buffed out to conceal them as much as possible. Not bad for a 20 year old paint job. The top is in excellent shape for its age. It too was replaced about 20 years ago when the car was painted. It looks like it's brand new. This VW convertible is the perfect summer/beach cruising car that gets smiles, waves and thumbs up from everyone who sees it.
In closing, this car is turn key and ready to go. Needs nothing but a new driver. It even has a full tank of gas. I wouldn't hesitate to drive it anywhere. I have a very reasonable reserve set and hope it finds a great new home. I welcome any local buyers to inspect it in person, just email for an appointment. I will answer any questions or concerns, just ask. The car is registered and insured in the state of RI. It will be sold with a bill of sale and a copy of the current registration. RI doesn't title vehicles over 10 years old so check your local laws for any paperwork you may need.
Buyers are responsible for shipping costs. I will assist any transport company you hire. A $500 deposit is required through paypal within 24 hours of the auctions end. The balance to be paid within 7 days with cash or a certified bank check. Thank you.
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