by Unique Volkswagen Beetle Limousine is Being Auctioned
The Monterey Car Week auction features rare and restored cars, but this 1969 Volkswagen Beetle limousine is one of the most unusual. The client was John von Neumann, the Volkswagen distributor for the West Coast. The cost of the conversion at the time was $34,499.95, while the original Beetle cost only $2,063.
The modification was performed by Troutman-Barnes, a company known for building race cars. The limousine retained the Beetle’s style but received a 40-inch longer wheelbase, additional doors, and a luxurious interior with a mini-bar, table, and sound insulation. The engine was replaced with a more powerful 1.6-liter one to compensate for the increased weight.
The Car’s History and Future
This limousine, known as the Rollswagen, became a celebrity—it was used at shows, in advertisements, and even to transport John Wayne to the Oscar ceremony in 1970. It will now be sold with no reserve price, and experts estimate the lot at $150,000–200,000.
Despite its unusual appearance, this Beetle remains a part of automotive history. Its uniqueness is emphasized not only by its design but also by its connection to famous personalities of the past. Similar specimens rarely appear on the market, making them particularly valuable for collectors.
