Lot 30: 1971 Volkswagen 1300 Beetle at the Mathewsons December 2026 auction

What to check on any Volkswagen Beetle (1953 to 1980 in the UK)

• The body bolts to a separate platform chassis, so a rotten floor can be replaced, but the sills and heater channels are the critical area.
• Ask for the engine to be started from cold and watch the exhaust.
• Ask whether the car jumps out of gear on the overrun. A vague or obstructive change is often just the linkage, but it can disguise worn synchromesh.
• Standard cars use torsion bars at both ends with a swing axle at the rear.
• Wiring is simple, so faults are usually down to age, corroded connections or poor additions.
• Check that the chassis number on the car agrees with the V5C and that the year and specification fit the details of the body.

Full Volkswagen Beetle (1953 to 1980 in the UK) buyer's guide →

Checks for this car

• This is a modified car, so ask about any insurance and MOT implications of the modifications.
• Inspect the welding of the roof chop.
• Check the custom wiring and the suspension clearance.