2003 Volkswagen Beetle-New

"New Beetle GLX," not the "Classic Beetle" Convertible, four seat

1.8L 150 HP 5800RPM 19/23mpg

Automatic six-speed

3VWDD21Y33M333636

Clear

Gasoline

’03 VW Turbo Super Beetle Convertible GLX. Rare, short-lived opportunity, ends Mar 17. The turbo engine on this beloved sleek black chariot smoked out a month ago. No fire, just black smoke—plenty of it—suddenly, while driving on the freeway. “Oil mixes with coolant, pressure builds in the cooling system,” says the mechanic. No prior accident reported. The engine starts, the vehicle moves. But we make no guarantees and offer it for sale only as is. Mileage is 105,055, with 1626 miles on two new rear tires replaced in November 2014. Too expensive to replace the motor (“About five thousand dollars”). So it’s ready for some knowledgeable mechanic or venturesome entrepreneur to buy very cheap. Fix to resell or keep. Or maybe buy to part-out (which we can’t take time to do). Nearly $1,000—receipts available—spent on repairs (brakes, cooling system), before pronouncement of the death knell. Some fading paint on the hood. Some deterioration where the convertible top meets the windshield, right side. Plastic body parts show deterioration or cracks, including the glove compartment area. See the photos for the worst cases. “Too much sun exposure,” says the automotive coroner (whose vehicular death pronouncement you can see for yourself). No serious dents. Ready for a discerning buyer of a mechanically, but not aesthetically, damaged classic auto. Included: $250 custom front seat covers to hide cracked leather. Offered to the highest bidder over $750. Cash or bank cashier's check only, with a joint trip to the bank and to AAA. Goes to the highest bidder by noon, Tuesday, March 17, 2015. After that date, lacking a buyer, this black beauty will be handed over to a junk dealer we’ve already identified. For any questions or to see it in Southern California, Orange County, before its funeral, call 626.318.2003. We transfer the custom plates. You get the clear, unbranded title. You tow or ship: we’d help.