by It is important to realize how significant Volkswagen’s influence on the American market was. Only in the peak years of the late 1960s – early 1970s was the Type 1 model sold in volumes of about 400 thousand units per year – that’s more than the modern VW sells in the US for its entire lineup.
However, Beetles were built to be driven, not collected, so most surviving examples are either heavily worn or have undergone thorough restoration. There are almost no original cars like this one – with only 104 miles (167 km) on the odometer, which can now be purchased through an online auction.
This is a special Baja Champions version from 1972, created to celebrate the model’s successes in the 1967-1971 races. The car received the signature Marathon Blue color, black leatherette interior, 15-inch Lemmerz alloy wheels, as well as special “Baja” decals, additional lights on the hood, and a commemorative plaque.
Technically, it is a modification of the 1302 Super Beetle, which was an attempt to update the outdated design in response to declining sales and competition from American and Japanese models. The car received McPherson suspension instead of torsion bars, an increased fuel tank and trunk, as well as a 60 hp engine.
BaT Photos
According to the original price list, the additional Baja SE equipment cost $65 with a total car cost of $2,261 (equivalent to $17,298 today). This particular unit was not sold but remained at the Chick Iverson VW dealership in Newport Beach until 1996, after which it became the property of the founder of West Coast Metric.
Although models from the 1970s do not have the same charm as earlier versions, the opportunity to purchase an almost new Beetle is extremely rare. Detailed auction information can be found on Bring A Trailer.
