RESERVE LOWERED – 1978 Volkswagen Beetle Karmann Convertible |

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RESERVE LOWERED – 1978 Volkswagen Beetle Karmann Convertible

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Mileage~46,278 on clock
TransmissionManual
Engine1.3-litre
LocationRickmansworth

AUCTION CLOSED

RESERVE LOWERED – 1978 Volkswagen Beetle Karmann Convertible

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Introduction

Dom Ginn

Professional Consigner

Iconic, charming, and effortlessly fun, with timeless VW style that never goes out of fashion.

The Volkswagen Beetle Karmann Convertible stands as a true icon of open-top motoring, blending the unmistakable charm of the classic Beetle with the craftsmanship of Karmann-built coachwork.

As one of the final evolutions of the original Beetle, it marks the end of a remarkable era - refined, characterful, and instantly recognisable around the world. Its timeless silhouette, rounded lines, and simple detailing capture everything that made the Beetle so beloved, while the convertible form adds an extra sense of freedom and occasion to every drive.

Built with durability and usability in mind, it remains a classic that can still be enjoyed with ease today. With its air-cooled heritage and laid-back driving character, the Beetle Karmann Convertible isn’t about speed, it’s about experience.

This charming, left hand drive, import model comes from just over 4 years with our vendor and has benefitted from over ~£7,800 worth of previous restoration works in 2000, covering off: a new exhaust silencer, air filter system, carburettor set, front disc conversion, lowered suspension, ignition distributor, and updated rear brake drums.

The car has received a new coat of paint over its years, changing from black to grey, and has had interior works undertaken to complete its restoration.

The Karmann represents a simpler, more joyful approach to motoring, where every journey feels special and every mile is taken at your own pace. Take a look over the quality on offer here with this example.

This listing was written from information supplied by Dom after meeting Philip the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

It's all about the charm and open-top freedom with the Beetle: every drive feels relaxed, nostalgic, and full of character.

Philip, the current owner, has always been a fan of all things Beetle. He told us, “I wanted a new Volkswagen Beetle for as long as I can remember from my youth but never got round to buying one. My brother in law had this one before me and it was an easy choice to take the Karmann on as my own.”

The Beetle has been tastefully updated since its import to the UK from overseas, and one of the aspects the drew Philip to his purchase. He goes on to say, “I’ve always liked the stylish and quirky look of the original Beetle, but wanted one that took it up to the next level in terms of quality and finish.”

Having owned the car for the last ~4 years and having less time on his hands to drive it now, Philip wants to find his VW a new home. He adds, “I’d like the car to go to someone who will really cherish it - it’s been a great car and will be sorely missed".

If you have any questions about the car, Philip would be more than happy to respond in the comments section below.

Philip

Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER

Exterior
Interior
Mechanics
History
All Images

EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

Classic Beetle styling with laid-back convertible appeal - rounded, cheerful, and instantly recognisable from every angle.

Wheels and Tyres

This Beetle is fitted with 15" split-spoke alloy wheels with solid black centres and SSP centre emblems. All appeared to be in great condition, and we noted no real concerns with them.

The front of the Beetle is fitted with Firestone tyres and a spec of 165/65 dated 2019. To the rear, the car was also fitted with Firestones with a spec of 185/65, dated 2020.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

Bodywork

The bodywork of the Beetle showed in lovely overall condition. Looking over the exterior, the panel lines looking straight and well-aligned.

Bodywork repairs, welding, and stone guard panel fitment was actioned in August 2020 costing over ~£3,000. We didn't really spot any areas of the main body that posed a concern: overall the VW was in great shape.

We’ve highlighted our observations in more detail through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer and to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The Beetle was originally finished in black. The updated grey paint coat showed well in its finish, adding a more modern touch to a classic model.

The coverage is even across the car with no noted imperfections to colour. We didn't note any real concerns with the paint; it was clear the car had been well respected and looked after.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there yourself. Please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car to form your own opinion about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The windscreen, side windows, front and rear lights all appear in great condition, and we could see no signs of concerning scratches on the glass.

VW and Karmann badges are present and look smart.

Chrome trim showed well, although there were signs of corrosion to the bumper fitments and windscreen wipers. There was also some pitting to the chromed quarter panel trim edges and rear bumper sections.

The interior cabin trim sections showed well, with just a couple of very minor marks to the roof lining which was replaced in 1993.

We've taken you around the car in greater detail in our exterior review video, please take the time to look over the video and see how the glass and trim look from different perspectives.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Simplicity meets charm, with a clean, airy cabin that captures the timeless spirit of classic motoring.

Seats and Carpets

The seats looked very presentable and we barely found any issues with them - a smart looking seating area. Both front and rear seats showed limited use, displaying well.

Black carpets show in respectable condition, with just some slight wear to the passenger side footwell carpet. We had no concerns with the front boot section, although it would benefit from a clean.

We've captured high-resolution photos and a full interior video tour through the car. This covers off the angles inside the car for you to review and appreciate the condition of what's on offer here in our interior review section.

Dashboard

The black dash across the centre console appears in reasonable shape, although there were a few signs of age to the finish and a small hole in the top section above the dashboard. Nothing really concerning here though.

Simple but efficient, the single dash dial was functioning as expected, providing the fuel and speedometer readings. The odometer showed ~46,278 miles at the time of our visit.

The switches and controls all appear to be in nice condition, with surfaces free from fogging.

We noted no issues with any warning lights and the gauges were all functioning without concern when starting up the car.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

Equipped with a 'Flat 4 GT' wood trimmed wheel, we found no issues to report beyond a few signs of age to the metal spoke sections.

The cleanly-designed gear stick looks to be in good condition, with no wear that stood out.

We've captured high-resolution photos for you to review and appreciate the condition of the interior in our gallery section.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

At its heart sits a simple, characterful air-cooled flat-four with a soundtrack that defines the Beetle experience.

Engine and Gearbox

We noted no trouble starting the car. Out on the road, the Beetle also performed without issue when running and driving.

The car idled smoothly and its engine was easily capable of getting up to speed in no time at all.

We took the car out around some local roads with Philip to get a better feel for what this vehicle is all about. Take a look at the mechanical video to see the car starting up and more detail in the engine bay.

Suspension and Brakes

The Beetle was lowered as part of the restoration works completed in September 2000. We noted no knocks, bangs, or other issues from the suspension when we were on the road, and it gave us no concerns over its performance or handling.

Looking over the underside of the car during our visit, we noted no issues and the car felt solid on the road.

The front brakes were converted to disc brakes and the rear drum brakes were replaced in 2000. The brakes had no pull or vibrations that stood out to us when on the journey. These brought the car to a stop without a problem, and with the kind of stopping power you'd expect.

Please take a look over the mechanical videos and photographs to see close-up images from under the car.

The Drive

The VW Beetle Karmann offers a relaxed, characterful driving experience rooted in simplicity and charm. Its light steering, soft suspension, and distinctive air-cooled engine create an easy-going, unhurried feel that encourages you to slow down and enjoy the road.

With the roof down, it becomes even more engaging - every journey feels open, nostalgic, and full of personality. It’s not about outright performance, but about connection, enjoyment, and the timeless pleasure of classic motoring.

Electrics and Other

The VW features a Pioneer CD stereo player. A matching spare wheel is located in the boot.

A quirky note, and one that keeps the spirit of the Beetle alive, was the vase on the dashboard!

During our time with the vehicle we noted that all switches, dials, and gauges appear undamaged and are in good overall condition.

We weren't able to fully test all of the functions when visiting the car, although Philip told us everything was in working order.

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History and Paperwork

With relatively low mileage for its age, and tasteful restoration, this import model Beetle is worthy of serious consideration.

Imported from Italy in 1986, this lovely left hand drive VW is a classic in every sense. It's a well equipped, smartly-specced little runner that's perfect for the warmer months ahead.

Originally finished in black, this updated grey Beetle Karmann has seen a good amount of restorative work to bring it up to the quality on show today. In 2000, over £7,800 was spent, which included upgrades to the exhaust silencer, air filter system, and carburettor set.

Works continued with a front disc conversion, lowered suspension, pulley kit, ignition distributor, updated rear brake drums, and fuel hoses. The headlining was replaced in 1993.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
27.08.2020	MOT	45,473
04.05.2012	MOT	42,717
14.05.2010	MOT	42,557
07.04.2009	MOT	42,404
21.05.2008	MOT	42,016
14.04.2007	MOT	41,642
11.04.2006	MOT	40,310
23.03.2005	MOT	39,845
13.04.2004	MOT	38,587
09.04.2003	MOT	38,303
17.04.2002	MOT	38,065
18.05.2001	MOT	37,747
26.04.2000	MOT	37,330
01.04.1999	MOT	37,130
20.02.1998	MOT	36,141
04.10.1996	MOT	33,981
27.07.1995	MOT	32,426
08.06.1993	MOT	19,780 (Inaccurate Reading)
15.07.1994	MOT	28,158
16.05.1992	MOT	15,963
25.05.1991	MOT	15,963
02.05.1990	MOT	97,032
11.02.1989	MOT	55,276
07.12.1987	MOT	38,736
02.12.1986	MOT	37,999

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Key Details

Year1978
ModelBeetle Karmann Convertible
TransmissionManual
Reg. Date1978
First UK Reg. Date04.12.1986
CC1,300
Mileage~46,278
ColourGrey
Interior ColourCream
Interior TrimLeather / Vinyl
Chassis #1592002261
Engine #D1431311
RestoredYes
MOT ExemptYes
Road Tax ExemptYes
HPi ClearYes
Former Keepers4
Tyre BrandFirestone
Tyre Age2019 / 2020
LHD or RHDLHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Owned~4 years, 3 months
Key FeatureLeft Hand Drive, Great Condition and Restored
Vehicle RegistrationKGN 672T
Fuel TypePetrol
Body TypeConvertible
Auction ID3572

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All Images

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Vehicle Location

Rickmansworth

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Seller : PhilipB

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2 Comments

andrewpowling

5 days ago

Good morning Philip. Please can you confirm condition of both cills. Photographs are unclear whether surface rust or holes present. Grateful for your help. Regards. Andrew

PhilipB

Seller

andrewpowling

4 days ago

there is no rust or holes in the cills
or anywhere underneath the car
thanks for looking

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