During VW's Type-1 production years they built three basic
models in the sedan, sun-roof sedan (rag-top) and of
course the cabriolet (convertible). As with most high
production cars, there are always those cars that are
uniquely rare and attract serious collectors. The 1948 to
1952 beetle's are very respectable in this category
because of their unique spilt rear window. But the "Zwitter"
(German Zwitter Kafer and/or hybrid beetle) tops the
charts for the October of 1952 to March of 1953 time
period, a short 5 month model transition period and/or
changeover that produced these special cars...
The Zwitter variant was built on the old split window
48-52 body with the new dash of the oval window models,
chrome trim was used instead of aluminum, vent windows in
the doors, unique bumpers/headlamps/tail lamps &
featured many Zwitter only interior components. As for
this example, it goes without saying, that even fewer were
produced as a Rag Top and/or sun-roof sedan with tri-fold
canvas roof. Now that we have brought you up to speed,
let's talk about this fine example...
The current caretaker purchased this vehicle in Northern
California with prior known 100% original show car
restoration history. The body, paint and interior was
excellent in presentation but the level did not meet his
high standards of ownership, presence and overall
functionality. The entire near perfect black exterior body
with basecoat/clearcoat finish was completely
disassembled, properly prepared and professionally
finished in a stunning but proper $12,000 single stage
black re-finish...
During this process, the interior of the car received the
same level of attention by a well known premier VW
restoration facility, Lenny Copp's "West Coast Classic
Restorations". Where it received all new correct striped
cloth upholstery, door panels, pillows & headliner ($7K).
Other noted items addressed included repairing/replacing
some of the Rag-Top slide back mechanism, refurbished
Kilometer speedometer, refurbished working clock, show
quality jack and new OEM style tires...
While this unit represents itself as factory in appearance
and presence, it's original beauty is not lost with very
tasteful but subtle mechanical updates that allow you to
actually drive/enjoy it safely, at todays road speeds.
Updates to it's functionality include the replacement of
the current non-original engine with a complete 1915cc
engine rebuilt by well known So-Cal VW engine specialist
"Old Speed" of Paramount, CA., fully synchronized "Freeway Flyer"
manual transmission, 12V electrical system and 4 wheel
Disc brakes fitted to accept factory wheels. We think you
get the idea...
In closing, the current caretaker has presented/prepared
an exceptionally nice example that can be admired for it's
original beauty with the ability to actually drive it. Of
which, it has been tested and enjoyed with just over 1,600
easy miles and no disappointments. The end result is a
subtle and very captivating re-fined original and/or
resto-mod. We say "Drive it Anywhere and Enjoy"! (see HD
video)
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