1969 Volkswagen Beetle Karmann Convertible

09/3/2026

$34,500

SOLD ON 09/03/2026

DETAILS

GALLERY

Make

Volkswagen

Model

Beetle Karmann Convertible

Year

1969

VIN

119983061

Odometer

79,071 Km* Indicated

Lot Number

23969

Location

Lancefield, VIC

This 1969 Volkswagen Beetle Karmann Convertible has been with its current owner for over 26 years and is finished in Guards Red over a cloth interior with Recaro seats. It is powered by a 1916cc air-cooled flat four-cylinder engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels, and the odometer displays an indicated 79,071 kilometres.


The Karmann-built Beetle Convertible represents one of the most distinctive evolutions of the Type 1 platform, combining the durability of the Beetle with reinforced cabriolet construction by Karmann. With its strengthened body shell, folding soft top and unmistakable silhouette, the Convertible remains one of the most recognisable and enduring variants of the Beetle lineage.


The vehicle was purchased in Sydney in 1999 from its previous owner and has remained with its current custodian ever since, representing over 26 years of continuous ownership.


Shortly after purchase in 1999, the original 1600cc engine was replaced with a mildly modified 1916cc unit built by respected Volkswagen engine builder Stan Pobjoy. The upgraded engine is described as improving drivability, particularly for highway use and hill climbing.


Additional modifications include a Momo sports steering wheel, supplementary instrumentation comprising a tachometer, oil pressure gauge, oil temperature gauge and clock, a battery isolator switch, car alarm and a Gene Berg quick-shift gear lever. While the Gene Berg shifter may resemble an automatic-style “T” bar, the vehicle remains a manual transmission.


Servicing has been undertaken by the owner, with the most recent oil change and front-end greasing completed in January 2026.


Mechanically, the vehicle is described as operating well. The only noted issue relates to the rear passenger windows, which require careful operation when winding up or down as they can dislodge from their runners. This has not been rectified, as the rear windows are seldom used.


The paintwork is described as excellent, with no noted stone chips, dents or scratches. Alloy and chrome trim present well. The vehicle has been repainted at some stage, though the original factory colour is unknown. The interior presents in very good condition overall, with the Recaro seats a notable feature.


Included in the sale are a Volkswagen jack and a spare windscreen, noting that cabriolet-specific windscreens differ from standard Beetle items and can be more difficult to source. No service books or owner’s manuals are supplied.


As per Trading Garage Terms and Conditions, although Trading Garage has completed the following checks, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description and conduct any research they feel necessary prior to bidding. All listings are sold in Australian dollars. This vehicle is registered in Victoria until 10 April 2026. A PPSR search confirms it is not recorded as written off or stolen and no security interests are registered.

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