1973 Volkswagen Beetle - Classic

Sedan

4 - Cyl.

Manual

1132632940

Clear

Gasoline

I bought this VW a few months ago to use as a light weight vehicle to tow behind my motor home. Health issues, the absence of air conditioning, and ownership of two other towable, air conditioned vehicles finally convinced me that's not a good option for me. The car looks good from 10' away; the recent paint job is not of very good quality. The previous owner had fairly recently replaced all of the upholstery, including seat covers, head liner, and carpets. They're all in good condition but need cleaning. The under-hood carpets have been removed but are all included. Some new weatherstripping and bright trim pieces are included. The floor boards are in good condition with no obvious rusting through except, as usual, in the battery box. That box has been well repaired with a new metal floor. The engine was reportedly rebuilt, with 1800 cc cylinders, within the past couple of thousand miles. It runs good and strongly, but sometimes smokes on first start up of the day. I've repaired a leaking carburetor float and replaced the plugs, points, and distributor cap and rotor. The PO also installed a new clutch which operates smoothly and positively. The transmission shifts nicely with the aftermarket short-throw lever; I've noticed no unusual sounds from the drive train. All new brake shoes, cylinders, and master cylinder were installed shortly before I bought the car, but it had NO brakes at that time -- they'd failed to replace 3 plugged flexible hoses. I've now replaced all hoses and some hard lines; the brakes are good. The car steers well but the front suspension needs attention; it knocks badly over bumps. All of the tires are in good condition with excellent tread but may be out of balance since the front end tramps badly at about 45-50 mph. The PO replaced the radio with a nice Kenwood AM/FM/CD unit, including new front kick panel speakers and a rear package shelf mounted pair of speakers. With my poor hearing, I haven't even turned it on. The older radio is included. In the back seat is a box of miscellaneous parts, including a Haynes service manual. I'd like to return the car to original condition and add air conditioning, but my age and physical condition make that an irrational option.