1978 Volkswagen Beetle (Last Edition) |

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1978 Volkswagen Beetle (Last Edition)

Sold Price

£7,800

Mileage~25,923 on the clock
TransmissionManual
Engine1.2-litre
LocationRetford, Nottingham

SOLD

1978 Volkswagen Beetle (Last Edition)

I WANT ONE

Introduction

Ashley Dawson

Professional Consigner

The Volkswagen Beetle remains one of the most recognisable and beloved cars ever produced, a design icon that transcends generations.

From its humble origins as the “peoples' car” to its global cult status, the Beetle’s charm lies in its simplicity, reliability, and unmistakable shape. By the late 1970s, production of the classic Beetle in the UK was coming to an end, marking the close of an extraordinary chapter in automotive history. To commemorate this, Volkswagen released a final batch of 300 “Last Edition” Beetles for the UK market, each individually numbered and finished in Silver Metallic — a fitting send-off for one of the world’s most enduring designs.

Coming from ~9 years with our vendor, this “Last Edition” example is number 65 of 300, retaining its matching numbered plaque and presented in lovely, original condition. Having been stored, it remains a fine representation of the Beetle’s lasting appeal, a piece of motoring history preserved for future generations. It is MOT and road tax exempt.

This listing was written from information supplied by Ashley after meeting Adele 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

I’ve really enjoyed owning this Beetle, it such an iconic car.

Adele has owned this wonderful “Last Edition” Beetle for ~9 years and has kept it well stored. She’s now offering it for sale as she doesn't have the space for it, and is hoping it goes to someone who’ll continue to enjoy and preserve it.

Adele will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Adele

Vehicle Owner

Adele saved £1,260* when they
sold their VW with us.

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EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

An icon in every sense, unmistakable curves, period detailing, and the purity of the last edition.

Wheels and Tyres

The original silver-finished steel wheels with chrome hubcaps remain in great condition, presenting nicely all around with only minor age-related wear visible on close inspection. The hubcaps retain a good shine, complementing the Beetle’s classic look.

The 5.60-15 tyres appear to have ample tread remaining, but there was some noticeable cracks in the walls of the tyres, most notable on the nearside rear tyre.

Please take a look at the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior of the VW and a closer look at the wheels and tyres to make your assessment of their condition.

Bodywork

The Beetle’s bodywork presents very well, with panels appearing straight and even throughout. The panel gaps look consistent and doors, bonnet, and engine lid all open and close cleanly, with no evidence of structural corrosion.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations 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 for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

Finished in the correct 'Diamond Silver' paint unique to the Last Edition cars, it retains a deep shine and uniform finish across the body.

A few small age-related imperfections can be found on close inspection, but overall, the finish presents to a high standard and highlights the car’s well-maintained nature. It’s clear this Beetle has been cherished and kept in good cosmetic order.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

All glass appears clear and free from major scratches, chips, or cracks, maintaining good visibility.

The chrome trim, bumpers, and brightwork present nicely with only slight pitting.

Rubber seals and window surrounds appear intact and in good order, completing a tidy exterior presentation.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

The interior of this Beetle presents very well and reflects the car’s careful ownership.

Everything appears tidy, original, and true to the model’s charming simplicity, offering a bright and inviting space that’s stood the test of time.

Seats and Carpets

Both seats and carpets are in good condition, showing no signs of damage or noticeable wear.

The upholstery remains firm and clean, consistent with a well-cared-for example that’s been used lightly and maintained properly.

Dashboard

The dashboard is neat and free from cracks or marks.

All switches, dials, and trim pieces appear intact and functional, retaining the characteristically simple yet iconic Beetle layout.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The steering wheel and gearstick both present in great shape, with no noticeable wear or damage.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

Mechanically, this Beetle appears to be in good order and has been kept in running condition.

Engine and Gearbox

The familiar 1.2-litre air-cooled engine starts willingly and idles smoothly, with no unusual noises reported.

Power delivery feels steady and reliable, while the four-speed manual gearbox operates cleanly, engaging gears without issue.

Suspension and Brakes

The Beetle’s suspension provides that characteristic comfort and compliance expected of the model, with no knocks or rattles reported.

Brakes are said to perform as they should, offering consistent stopping power but Adele mentions the pedal feeling a touch soft.

The Drive

On the road, the car drives exactly as you’d hope for a well-preserved late-model Beetle – light steering, a willing engine, and a smooth, enjoyable ride.

Adele notes that it feels solid and dependable, making it a delightful classic to take out on fair-weather trips.

Electrics and Other

All electrical systems, including the lights, wipers, and indicators, are said to be in good working order. Adele reassured us there are no known faults, and everything appears to function as expected.

Looking at the mileage of the MOTs it would seem like the odometer is not working, this may need some investigation.

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History and Paperwork

While no documentation or service records were present at the time of our visit, the Beetle presents well and appears to have been cared for in recent years, showing signs of careful maintenance and thoughtful ownership.

This example stands as a collectible piece of Volkswagen history in its own right. The current condition of the car suggests it has been kept with attention and respect, and with further investigation, it’s possible that historic paperwork or provenance could still be sourced from previous ownership.

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, 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 of 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 bids, 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
10-09-2020	MOT	25,925
26-11-2017	MOT	25,923
09-03-2017	MOT	25,923
03-08-2016	MOT	25,923

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Key Details

ModelBeetle
TransmissionManual
Reg. Date01-01-1978
CC1.2 Litre
Mileage~25,923 on the clock (stopped)
ColourDiamond Silver
Interior ColourBlue
Interior TrimCloth
Chassis #1182007168
Engine #D1417276
MOT ExemptYes
Road Tax ExemptYes
HPi ClearYes - All Clear
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Owned9 Years
Key FeatureOriginal Car
Vehicle RegistrationTKY 302S
Driver’s SideRHD
Fuel TypePetrol
Auction ID3262

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Vehicle Sold

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Ask Questions

Seller : AdeleD Sale Date 05.02.2026

Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.

9 Comments

Adam Purrier - Trade Classics

Admin

1 month ago

***RESERVE MET**** Reserve has now been met.

Adam Purrier - Trade Classics

Admin

1 month ago

***RESERVE LOWERED*** Adele has significantly reduced the reserve this evening – bidding isn’t far away. Good luck, Adam

ricky

1 month ago

Was the car ever patched r welding done

Herbie

1 month ago

Hi Adele wondering if I could come to Retford to have a look at the Beetle?

ColinB

Admin

Herbie

1 month ago

Hi,

We can help arrange a viewing for you, if you could send an email to [email protected] first, we just need to do some checks.

Thanks,
Colin.

SRG1966

1 month ago

Can you advise on how long the current owner has had the car as V5 shows purchased in 12.05.2025?

AdeleD

Seller

SRG1966

1 month ago

It was bought as a gift for me in 2017 and transferred into my name in 2035 during divorce.

SRG1966

1 month ago

Can you let me know if there is any paperwork with the car apart from the V5.

AdeleD

Seller

SRG1966

1 month ago

No other paperwork.

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Vehicle Location

Retford, Nottingham

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