1957 Volkswagen Beetle-Classic Deluxe

Ok so let me start by saying that I had NO intentions to part with this car, unless under one single condition. That being that if the time came where I could trade her for a long hood 911 or 912 I would consider it. Now.. Its not a trade I was offered exactly but I have the right of refusal on a really well sorted 66 912 that I just cant turn down So with that said, I am anxiously listing here for sale this terrifically well preserved, original numbers matching 1957 Oval Rag-Top.
I had searched quite some time to find a true to form, original bodied rag oval that was in anywhere as nice of condition as this one. If you're not new to the hunt, you know all too well how seldom they pop up for sale as original as this example. The paint of course has been redone, in a very attractive however non VW British Racing Green. Paint was done back in '86 and still holds up nicely. I would call it a very strong driver quality condition, with a few signs use but shows extremely well even up close. Tremendous color for this car, I must say. No rust, mud, or soft metal can be found on this car, from the pans, to pillars, to heater channels to window edges, rag top, and beyond. This car is ROCK solid. Only non original panel from my knowledge is the front hood, as I was told by a more knowledgeable enthusiast that the VW emblem area on a 57 is not 'raised' as seen on this one. You have to be a true nerd to know this stuff :) Consider me an aspiring nerd. Front hood crest badge is the rare original 7 color badge, no re-pop. Rear factory equipped W Deck Lid and popes nose is original. Factory fenders bumpers lights and bright work. All SS trim is in great shape. No rust or pitting really and has all been on the car for 30 years or more. This is not another freshly slapped together cheap shiny parts beetle, shes the real deal. Rag top cover was replaced when the rest of the work was done in the 80's still in great shape and the sliders function effortlessly. All lights work as they should, deck lid opens and closes in good alignment and doors shut exact with that German humidor like thump. Front hood catch needs alignment as it is 50/50 at times. I'll tinker with it some more before pickup. No accidents or bodywork from anything like that anywhere on the car. Careful restoration back in 1985 still stands tall today. Tires are in good shape, and they are real whitewall's none of that floppy insert stuff. Moving to the interior, the seats were redone in a complimentary color to the exterior BRG paint. All upholstery is in great shape, no tears or cracks throughout. Headliner is showing a little age as the glue has stained through in some spots, but is still certainly presentable. It is the cream mohair headliner. The carpet is the premium optioned German square weave and OEM rubber floor mats. Original Bat-wing steering wheel, and this is a fuel reserve car. Start running out of gas, reach down and switch to the reserve tank and on ya go! Pretty cool. Radio not installed, but have one in the parts box. 'block off' was taken out and hole was made for radio unit. Add a radio or repair and replace delete plate, had yet made that decision. Horn does not work. Have not tried the actual horn hot wired to see if that is it as of writing this, but I'll have a go at it in the next day or two and update. Otherwise all other electric equipment works as it should, still boasting its 6 volt battery (just replaced with new also). The car is as mentioned, largely left original when they most often are not. Still running strong on its stock 1200 and 6 volt system. Motor is strong and the rest of the mechanical elements work just as they should. Starts right up, even in this dreadful cold we're having here in New England, idles beautifully, shifts with precision, tracks true, stops in a straight line, and looks like pure class doing it. This car was always cherished for what it was built to be, vs modified like many are, and the 'time machine' feel you get from it is tremendous. the last time this car was bought was in 1985 and I have every piece of history and paperwork dating back to that date INCLUDING the want-ad page from which the car was found over 33 years ago! Anything that was taken off the car and or parts purchased for future maintenance etc will be included in the sale. As well, of course the folder and paper trail of this cars history to date.Overall its a great experience to drive, an heirloom investment, and a car truly worth preserving while enjoying, that will undoubtedly continue to appreciate as the years roll by. This was supposed to be one of my 'retirement garage' cars but my holy grail car has presented itself unexpectedly and thus I'm listing it for a quick sale to make the move. I'm anxious to let her go, but only so many spots in the garage at this stage in my life so I'm hoping it finds itself under the care of one of our air-cooled communities true enthusiasts out there.
As these things go, some key points to make and understand before bidding. Given the age of the bug and the venue in which it’s being listed, I am offering this sale AS-IS, no warranties outside of my word on the items mentioned above, and no refunds of any kind once the deal is done. This said PLEASE ask any and all questions, come and see/inspect/drive the bug if you’re able, and get all of your own permissions/financing/space cleared in your garage BEFORE you bid. As mentioned above, I am selling the car to fund another purchase, to which these proceeds are required for so I would like not to list more than once which is reflective in my price. BUY IT NOW can be agreed on at $24,500 or upon discussion, so please reach out if this is of interest. The bug is also going to be listed elsewhere and for sale locally, first to pay is the new owner. Otherwise, bid what you can afford to and are committed to pay, and we’ll see from there! PayPal for deposit is OK, the rest will have to be wire, cash, or certified bank check (PP Fees too high for full payment). Nothing gets handed over till funds clear. Pick up here at my house in Barre MA is expected within 5 business days of end of auction. Shipping is responsibility of the buyer, but I will of course do anything I can on my end to help get that sorted. I’ve both shipped a car home and away so I’m happy to lend my experience onto whomever might not have before to make it go smoothly. I have all the paperwork, MA Title, clear open and ready for new owner to register in their name etc, all will be sent certified mail once funds are cleared.
In closing, my reputation on here means a lot to me, and my enthusiasm for these cars and the people that enjoy them is my favorite part of the hobby. If there is anything you’d like to know or share in regard to this awesome little Oval, I’d love to chat. Please feel free to consider my feedback, and or speak with anyone that has purchased a car from me in the past if you have any concerns. Thanks again for the interest in this awesome little bug, and good luck with the bidding :) Cheers, Brando

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