Volkswagen Typ 1 Open Air — 1997

This Mexican-built Volkswagen Open Air has a history that is every bit as special as its condition. The current owner first bought the car in 2008 from an elderly couple who had imported it to Sweden. After the husband passed away, the widow no longer wished to keep the car. At the time of purchase, it had covered only around 600 kilometres.

Before coming to Sweden, the car had reportedly been displayed in a museum abroad, although it is not known where. When it came into the current owner’s care in 2008, it was still in factory-delivered original condition. The registration plates were still unpacked on the parcel shelf, and there were not even any holes drilled in the engine lid or bumper for mounting them. To avoid altering the car, the owner therefore chose to use adhesive number plates.

After three years of ownership, the car was sold when a move and house construction became the priority. But the story did not end there. In April 2025, the current owner was given the opportunity to buy the car back, and he did not hesitate. It was a welcome reunion, and the car had still covered just under 14,000 kilometres.

Today, the car is about as close to new condition as one could reasonably expect. It has never been repainted or touched up, and both the bodywork and paint remain entirely original. The overall impression is further enhanced by the fact that the car still retains its documentation and original books.

A particularly unusual feature is the electrically operated folding roof, which was a factory-fitted option. It appears to be a relatively rare feature on these cars.

The car has received a few period-style and fully reversible modifications. The rear wheels have been widened and fitted with brand-new tyres, while the original front wheels have also received new tyres. It is also fitted with dropped spindles, alternative side mirrors, different rear light lenses and a different steering wheel. For anyone wishing to return the car to completely original specification, all of the original parts are included loose with the car, including four original wheels with tyres, although only one is shown in the pictures; see pictures.

Mechanically, the car has been inspected and serviced. Among other things, the engine oil and filter, air filter, fuel filter, spark plugs, gearbox oil and brake fluid have been replaced.

The drivetrain remains in original specification and consists of a 1.6-litre fuel-injected engine with electronic ignition and hydraulic valve lifters. The engine starts easily and runs very well, with no unusual noises or noticeable play.

This Volkswagen Open Air stands out even among well-preserved examples. Its very low mileage, untouched original paintwork, unusual electrically operated folding roof and complete documentation make it a rare and highly distinctive collector’s car.

• Zustand technisch

  Nothing to remark on. Technically, the car functions as it should.

• Zustand Interieur

  Nothing significant to remark on, although there appears to be a small mark on the rear seat backrest above the centre seat belt. Otherwise, the interior is about as close to new condition as one could expect. Very fine!

• Zustand Exterieur

  The original paintwork is in like-new condition. No scratches or dents were found. The body lines are straight and even, with no notable blemishes. An exceptionally well-preserved and cared-for exterior.

• Zustand gesamt

  There is not much more to say – this is about as close to new condition as one could reasonably expect. A true time warp.
  
  The car is ideally suited to a collector, but would be equally enjoyable for someone who wants to attend shows and display what is essentially a “new” Volkswagen Beetle.

Fordonsstatus: Itrafik 2025-04-26
Ursprungsbesiktning: 2007-08-17 (regbes)
Datum i trafik första gången: 2009-06-17 (970610)
Senast godkända besiktning: 2026-04-09
Besiktigad tom: 2028-04-30
Årsskatt: 913 Kr
Körförbud: Nej
Antal ägare: 5

When Volkswagen production got properly underway after the Second World War, it quickly spread around the world. The Type 1 – commonly known as the Beetle – came to be built in many different countries. As early as 1950, Volkswagen had an assembly plant in Ireland, soon followed by Brazil, South Africa and several other countries.

In Mexico, assembly began in 1955. Later, around 1964, full-scale production started there instead of cars being assembled from imported parts shipped in crates.

Production of the Type 1 ended at different times around the world. In Germany, production stopped in 1977, with the exception of the Cabriolet, which remained in production until 1979. In South Africa, production continued until 1979.

In Brazil, production first ended in 1986, before being restarted between 1993 and 1996. In Mexico, however, the Beetle remained in production all the way until 2003.

During the 1990s, the Mexican-built Beetle was modernised to better suit contemporary requirements. Improvements included fuel injection, a catalytic converter, automatic seat belts and front disc brakes. From 1995 onwards, most of the chrome trim was replaced by black-painted details.

Location: Upplands Väsby

For viewing the vehicle, contact the inspector/case manager:

Nisse Brandt
+46 707 50 89 99
nisse@bilwebauctions.se

Collection must take place before: 2026-09-23.

NOTE! Payment (deposit to our account) must be made within 5 days and before collection.