2021 Market Review - Volkswagen Beetle/Karmann 1954-1980
Old Beetles, so it seems, never die they just keep getting rebuilt into something more enduring.
| Buyer’s Guide: VW Superbug 1600
Few models can claim the same levels of survival as early Volkswagens, yet even with plenty available, the values of 1950s-70s cars continue to increase. Very early split and oval rear window Beetles have become expensive – over $50K for a pre-1954 ‘splittie’ – and no longer practical for frequent use.
Later Beetles, especially the Superbugs, cost less than $20,000 and certainly can earn their keep as regular transport. Karmann-bodied VWs and their derivatives can get expensive, especially Type 1 K-G Cabrios that will be ex-USA arrivals.
Based on their US values, these cars are headed for $100,000, with 1960s Cabriolet Beetles not far behind. Don’t confuse a genuine Karmann-bodied car with cheap local chop-tops.
1954-57 Beetle $37,000 [5]
1958-67 Beetle $34,025 [25]
1968-73 Beetle $23,730 [17]
1971-76 Superbug 1600 $17,045 [9]
Karmann Cabrio 1962-80 $38,990 [5]
Karmann-Ghia T1 Coupe $44,800 [8]
Karmann-Ghia T1 Cabrio $69,850 [4]
[*] = number of recorded sales
(Note: concours & special cars may demand more.)
Numbers from our 2021 European & British Value Guide.
| 2019 Market Review: VW Beetle/Karmann 1954-1980
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From Unique Cars #456, Aug 2021