1959 Volkswagen Beetle - Classic

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1959 Volkswagen Beetle 1959 Volkswagen Beetle - Beautiful Properly Restored Example One Owner Southern California Car Fully Documented Black Plate Car Including All Delivery Documents! Factory Original Color & "Numbers Matching Engine / Chassis!! ___________________________________________ NOTE: Our listings sometimes get rather lengthy. However, we continually hear from out of state / out of country buyers (many of our clients) that they prefer the level of detail that we provide. However, if you are not prepared to read multiple pages of description, we ask that you review the "Specifications" on the car along with viewing the photos. Also, if you'd prefer, please call us at 925-846-1451 and we'll gladly discuss the VW and answer any questions over the telephone, including about our Buy it Now policies. Yes, the Volkswagen can be purchased prior to the end of the eBay auction. Again, please give us a call for details. ALSO, PLEASE NOTE: EACH TIME WE LIST A VEHICLE ON EBAY WE RECEIVE COMMENTS THAT THERE ARE NO PHOTOS OF THE INTERIOR, ENGINE, UNDERCARRIAGE, ETC. OF THE CAR. THERE ARE 100 PHOTOS OF ALL AREAS OF THE CAR BUT, WHEN YOU REACH WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE LAST PHOTO, YOU WILL NEED TO SCROLL TO VIEW THE REMAINING PHOTOS. IF YOU ARE STILL UNABLE TO SEE THE PHOTOS, PLEASE CALL US AND WE WILL PROVIDE A LINK FOR THE PHOTOS (IT IS A VIOLATION OF EBAY POLICY TO LIST THE URL ON THE EBAY LISTING). All of our photos are taken in natural light and we do not "Photo-Shop" or touch-up the photos in any way. The cosmetic quality of this 1959 VW (both inside & out) is exceptional and the photos accurately reflect the condition of this rare late 50's VW. The "madness" will soon be underway at the various auction venues around the country. We often times see a wide range of collectible cars / special interest cars sell for inflated amounts in the "heat of the moment." However, this VW is offered at a VERY realistic price and, unlike bidding on cars in an auction environment, you will have the benefit of extensive information & history on the car prior to making a buying decision. Equally as important is the fact that Classic Cars Ltd. has been in business for close to 20 years and enjoys an excellent national / international relationship with 690+ positive eBay feedback items. We can provide references in addition to those left by customers at Yahoo Reviews, Classic Cars Ltd. Pleasanton, CA. (Please enter this information in Google to read our reviews). THANK YOU! CLASSIC CARS LTD. 925-846-1451 HISTORY OF THE VOLKSWAGEN "BEETLE" The Beetle is perhaps the best-selling car of all-time. Truly, a recognizable shape that has stood the test of time. In the 1940's, Adolf Hitler was searching for a people's car that was capable of transporting three children and two adults at speeds of sixty miles-per-hour. The car was to be inexpensive, costing the same as a motorcycle. Ferdinand Porsche was commissioned to produce such a vehicle. There are many theories as to where the designs originated from. Some believe Hitler designed the vehicle. Some theorize that it was Joseph Ganz's 1920 design that was the true inspiration for the Beetle design. Porsche had created designs for the Mercedes-Benz 170H, which played into the design of the Beetle. Inspiration for the Beetle had been drawn from the Tatra vehicles, mainly the T97, that had been designed by Hans Ledwinka. Due to the similarities, Tatra launched a lawsuit which never really materialized due to Germany invading Czechoslovakia. The lawsuit was later re-opened after World War II and Volkswagen was forced to pay Tatra 3,000,000 Deutsche Marks. This left Volkswagen with little money for development of new Beetle models. The Volkswagen Beetle first came on the scene in 1947, but they were known by a different name. KdF, short for Kraft durch Freude meaning 'power by joy', was designated to these small, gas-friendly vehicles. In English, the name Beetle was used. In German, they were known as Kafer, and in French they were called Coccinelle. These little bundles of joy featured mechanical drum brakes and a gearbox void of synchromesh. In 1949 the Volkswagen logo was placed on the rims. The engine was expanded to 1131 cc and was capable of producing 25 horsepower. The models that were produced after October of 1949 could be started without a 'starting crank'. Over the years improvements and "refinements" were added to make the VW's more comfortable, safer and to improve performance. In 1950 the mechanical, cable-driven brakes were replaced with hydraulic brakes. During the 1950's the Beetle saw exterior and interior improvements. 1951 saw the addition of arm-rests which were discontinued just a few months later. In 1952, 2nd-4th gears became synchronized. The dashboard was redesigned with a glove compartment. In 1955, the bumper was improved and electrical direction-indicators were installed. A second tail-pipe was added. The front seats became wider and could be moved to three different seat-back adjustable positions. In 1956, the tires became tubeless. Near the end of '56, a driver's side view mirror became standard on all Beetle models. In 1957 the front window was increased by 17 percent while the rear window received a 95 percent increase. A new dashboard, rear view mirror, radio, and a speaker appeared. The turn signals would now turn-off automatically. Up to this point, a roller pedal had been used to initiate acceleration. This was the year that the gas pedal replaced the roller pedal. In 1958, ivory disc wheels were offered. In 1960, an engine capable of producing 34 horsepower was offered. The speedometer was increased from 74 mph to 87 mph. A windshield-wiper washer system became available. The front directional light was changed from white to amber. A gas gauge was added in July of 1961. The Beetle continued to be sold in the United States until 1978 with the convertible version was sold until early 1980. Sales continued in Europe until 1985. Developing countries, such as Mexico, have been developing the Beetle since 1964 and the vehicles have remained in production much later than in Europe. By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2006 Specifications 1959 Volkswagen Beetle Specifications Engine Location: Rear Drive Type: Rear Wheel Body / Chassis: Steel Body Production Years for Series: 1938 - 1980 Coach Work: Karmann Price: $1,550-$2,730 Weight: 1600 lbs. | 725.748 kg Light alloy finned cylinders; cast-iron cylinder liners Engine Type : 4 cylinder / 1192 c.i. 36 BHP @ 3700 RPM 56 Ft-lbs. @ 2000 RPM Bore : 3.0 in | 77 mm. Stroke: 2.5 in | 64 mm. THIS PARTIUCLAR 1959 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE For close to 20 years, Classic Cars Ltd. has specialized in offering a wide range of unique / collectible vehicles. While we take considerable pride in the quality of our vehicles, occasionally, we come across a vehicle that is very special as a result of a combination of originality, quality restoration, California lineage and lineage / history. This is one of those rare vehicles that we are proud to offer to our loyal eBay customers. So, that is it that makes this W Beetle so very special and separates it from so many others? Some restorers are criticized for completing restorations that resemble virtually new cars by taking every nut and bolt and making them "like new." When it comes to restored VW's we often see examples of these "restored" cars complete with "new" engines from Mexico, inexpensive replacement fenders, inexpensive aftermarket trim and a host of lower quality trim and other components. The beautify of this VW lies not only in its amazing history but in the judgment that was exercised to restore the car but retain essential components that simple cannot be duplicated in a complete "frame off" restoration. Specifically, the following are examples of what separates this VW from so many of the other "Pretty faces" that have been restored: - Inner front trunk retains original correct paint in matching factory color - Totally straight damage free front end / nose (refer to photos) - Original build chalk marks in front compartment - Original factory jack properly mounted and never removed from the car! - Original tool roll - Original spare wheel with whitewall tire - All original wiring in excellent condition - Correct and original paint and behind dash wiring - Original glove box in excellent condition - Original dash in factory color with original trim - Correct numbers matching engine - Correct Non-Synchromesh transmission However, make no mistake, the restoration that was performed was not done in this manner in order to short-cut or reduce the amount of work but to create one of the finest "original/restored" early VW's that we have seen. The paint work is truly exceptional and was completed with all of the trim removed. There is not overspray and as many of the cars original components were utilized in the restoration and replated / restored if necessary. Inside and out this car is a "no excuses" show quality car that Consider the following: NOTE: The roof rack and surf board are from our personal collection and are for display ONLY. They are not for sale and are not included with this VW. Thank you! Classic Cars Ltd. - Delivered new to Mr. & Mrs. Edwin F. Branesky on 6-13-59 1959 in Southern California - Includes a copy of the original Dealers Report of Sale & Application for Registration dated 6/13/59 supporting delivery date and delivering dealer as Competition Motor Sales, Inc. 1219 N. Vine Street, Hollywood, 38 California - A copy of the ORIGINAL registration slip indicating the "Date Issued" of 7/7/59 and documenting the car has remained in California its entire life ALL of the original VW dealer delivery documents / equipment including: - Original Owner's Manual form 1959! - Original Sales Brochure on the 1959 VW as given to its new owner when the Beetle was purchased! - Original Service Booklet including service stamps at the delivering dealer - Note: Even the business card of the Service Manager, Al Harmon, is in the booklet! - Factory battery booklet and folder (in German) - Original California black & gold license plate on the rear reading "JOE 412" and consistent with early registration documents - Original Spare, jack and factory VW pouch/tools In addition to some of the best original delivery documentation that we have ever seen on a 53 year old vehicle, the car also comes complete with something that we cannot remember seeing even with the most original limited owner car. This VW's new owner will receive: Repair receipts that date back to 1959 when the car was brought to the delivering dealer for the initial servicing under the warranty including: - The 300 mile service completed on 6/24/59 (including repair of the dome light) - The 1,500 miles service receipt dated 8/24/59 - Total charge $5.87!! - The 3,000 mile service receipt from the delivering dealer - $3.06 repair - A receipt from Competition Motors (the delivering dealer) for installation of the sway bar (still in place on the car!) - Multiple other receipts as shown in photos Listed below are some highlights of the Volkswagen followed by a brief narrative describing the condition of the car cosmetically and mechanically. CONDITION SUMMARY 1959 VW BEETLE EXTERIOR PAINT / BODY / TOP - Finished in spectacular factory color believed to be "Diamond Gray" - Beautiful "Oatmeal" interior - Laser straight body - NO signs of previous damage or repairs. - Excellent panel gaps / fit - Trim removed with exceptional paint quality - Virtually perfect exterior trim - Factory correct driver's side mirror - All original dash including factory trim and paint! - Original blank out plate for radio opening (radio never installed and no antenna) - Chrome VW hubcaps - Beautiful chrome bumpers - Replacement but period style "Coker" wide whitewalls - Restored proper 1959 VW wheels - Excellent glass with correct markings on side windows - Functional locks including trunk INTERIOR - Originally configured - no changes from stock - Beautiful upholstery (front & back) - Factory steering wheel - Original and functional speedometer with current reading of 35,697 - Factory style carpet - All original dash in factory matching color - Excellent headliner (sun visors misplaced during restoration and not on car) - All windows operate perfectly - No seat belts as delivered new in 1959 (Can be installed at buyer's request) ENGINE / DRIVE-LINE / WHEELS & TIRES - "Numbers matching" factory rebuilt engine - Proper non synchromesh 4 speed transmission - Extremely clean engine bay & front trunk - Factory correct wheels - Dual exit exhaust system (as factory equipped) - 100% stock configuration - no modifications or changes from stock - Runs and drives extremely well MISCELLANEOUS - VIN plate & engine match proper Volkswagen production / manufacture dates - Passed California safety inspection (fully functional lights, turn signals, etc.) - Smog exempt in California (vehicles 1975 and older are exempt) DRIVING THE VW The VW starts immediately under all conditions and is reliable, fun to drive and economical. We are unable to find any issues with the engine, transmission or major systems (brakes, suspension, rear transaxle, electrical system, etc.) and the car is easy to drive. It has good power and can be driven at highway speeds without a problem. It does not leak significant fluids or smoke. The engine is very clean and has reportedly been rebuilt relatively recently. The Beetle steers straight, stops straight and has excellent brakes. The underside of the car is clean and free from damage, rust and any signs of previous repair of accidents. We encourage a review of the photos as the old adage "A photo is worth a thousand words" clearly applies in this instance! All of the electrical components are functional and the car passed California's strict safety inspection for lights, turn signals, wipers, within the previous week. The car is licensed and registered in California and, of course, has a free and clear title. When it comes to the cosmetic condition of the Volkswagen, the car is in absolutely beautiful condition. The body, paint and exterior trim are very hard to find fault with. It is apparent that considerable time (and expense) was spent on the paint work resulting in a finish that is as smooth as glass. Additionally, the panel fit is excellent with solid closing doors, trunk hood. The exterior trim including the bumpers, stainless and lenses are also in excellent condition. The quality of the work is very high and the car is fresh and ready to be enjoyed. The trunk and engine bay are spotless and consistent with the condition of the car's exterior and interior quality. It is apparent that no short cuts were taken in the building / restoration of this desirable 1959 California Beetle. The interior is in its stock configuration including the factory correct bucket seats, manual shift (floor mounted), steering wheel, center mounted speedometer and other stock (but minimalist) switches / controls. The seats are in beautiful condition (front & rear) and free from any signs of wear or damage. The carpet is excellent as is the headliner. The dash is free from any damage and the gauge / instruments are clear. All of the electrical systems and the original radio blanking plate remain in place. There is no indication that the VW has ever been fitted with a radio, speakers or antenna. We often times receive questions that go something like: "Does the car really look as good as it does in the photographs"? The answer in this case is a definitive NO. In this case, the VW looks better in every respect!! Perhaps most important, this is an opportunity to own a piece of history that has everything collectors look for; rarity, good looks and documentation that exists only in a car that has been acquired from and original or very long term owner. This car is a perfect show car for the upcoming season and would also make a perfect collectible, "high end" driver that will attract attention in virtually every venue. If you're not prepared to be noticed, this may not be the car for you. Due to the uniqueness of this car and the extensive list of build details we encourage that serious, prospective buyers contact us at 925-846-1451 to discuss the VW. We also encourage inspections and would welcome the opportunity to meet you and show you this rare and unusual Pontiac. MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL INFORMATION - We have been shipping vehicles for years and have established excellent contacts that are not only high quality but very price competitive. We do not use brokers, terminal shipping or other discount methods. Call us or email for a quote directly to your home or office. We are often able to obtain quality enclosed transportation (the kind of travel this car deserves) for the cost of open shipping. - As with virtually all collector/specialty vehicles, we find that parts and resources are readily available for this (and most every vehicle), thanks in large part to the Internet! - In addition to the purchase price of the vehicle, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, documentation fee, DMV transfer fees and license/registration. Out-of-state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle and any local taxes/fees will be the purchaser's responsibility to pay in their respective state. IMPORTANT NOTE: if the vehicle is delivered or driven in California and driven on California roads, sales-tax, license registration and transfer fees will be assessed per California law. - As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd. - Please keep in mind that minor cosmetic issues/flaws may be present on every vehicle (regardless of cost) including small chips, nicks, scratches, etc. that can be seen on even the best restoration, or even a relatively new, used "pre-owned" vehicle. Also, ownership of a collectible / specialty vehicle is more enjoyable if the owner is familiar with the "realities" of these unique cars. Unlike more modern day vehicles, these cars require regular, ongoing care/maintenance and some mechanical knowledge, patience, and understanding can make the experience considerably more pleasant. That said, collector / "specialty" car owners will tell you (emphatically) that they love their cars and wouldn't trade them for anything!! - The information contained in this description is believed to be accurate but, in some instances, has been provided by the car's owner / owners or outside sources. As a result, we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of the information. We encourage verification of "numbers" and significant data prior to the purchase of any collector vehicle that you are considering. PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER - As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background of any collector car being sold over the Internet. We believe that it is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to: - How long have they been in business? - How much experience do they have with collector cars? - How many positive collector car vehicle sales have completed (positive eBay feedback)? - How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle? - Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "Glamour Shots" taken from a distance? - Does the seller have a Surety Bond to protect the financial transaction? - What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license? - Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances? - Does the seller enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation? - Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales? ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD. - Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for close to 20 years. We operate a small "brick & mortar", indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles. - The majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair. - Please review our feedback on eBay (user name Never22Many) representing over 680+ positive transactions to buyers all over the United States / World. - We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World. - Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions - We enjoy excellent relationships with a number of transport companies and, as a result, can often times obtain preferred pricing for vehicle shipping. Please give us a call and we will be glad to refer you to suitable transport companies. Needless to say, we would recommend a quality, enclosed transporter that is experience with moving high quality, collectible cars. - We frequently sell vehicles to out of State / out of country buyers, and will be glad to provide references for buyers in your area. Thank you, Classic Cars Ltd. 925-846-1451 MyStoreMaps improve local and international eBay sales. Specifications: Body Type / Style:Coupe Exterior Color:Diamond Gray Metallic Interior Color:Oatmeal Engine:4 Cylinder Transmission: 4 Speed Manual Mileage:35703 Drive:Rear Doors:2 Equipment: Factory 4-Speed Factory Bucket Seats Fresh Engine Heater / Defroster Metallic Paint No Rust CA. Body Numbers Matching Car Original Owners Manual Terms & Conditions Buyers outside of California will be responsible for a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd. The vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere. We reserve the right to end the auction at anytime. We will be glad to discuss details of a "pre-auction" purchase (925) 846 1451. Inspections of vehicles are encouraged but (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction. Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California. We mail, via Priority Mail, transferable documents within 48 hours of the transfer of funds to out of State buyers. While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location. We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at 925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear from you, we reserve the right to delete your bid. Thank You & Happy Bidding Classic Cars Ltd. On Nov-30-12 at 12:45:29 PST, seller added the following information: Our description of the as 'original' did not include the fact that the original knobs were retained in addition to the ash tray, glove box and, as we mentioned, the original paint on the dash. Of course, as is evident from the photos, the seats and headliner received the benefit of being restored with new materials so as to be consistent with the beautiful exterior of the Volkswagen. It was not our intent to suggest that this 50+ vehicle has the all of its original interior components. The appeal and uniqueness of this particular Beetle are in its absolutely perfect blend of originality, fascinating documentation and appropriate restoration. Classic Cars Ltd. 925-846-1451On Jan-10-13 at 11:36:30 PST, seller added the following information: The reserve on the 1959 Volkswagen has been met and the car will sell to the interested party with the highest bid / offer. We have dramatically reduced the price of the car since we will be traveling as of 1/17/13 and our offices will be closed for 1 week at that time. We would like to finalize a sale and delivery (if appropriate) by that time. We have had considerable 'off-line' interest in the car both locally and from long distance prospective buyers and many of our cars do sell prior to the end of the eBay auction. As a result, we ask that you contact us at 925-846-1451 if you have an interest in this very unique early VW Bug. We encourage a review of our eBay feedback on 700~ items (100% feedback) as support of our accurate and complete vehicle representations. Thank you, Paul Wankle, Pres. Classic Cars Ltd.