Details
1950 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
Chassis No. 10185180
Maroon with beige cloth interior
Engine: four-cyclinder air-cooled, 1,131cc, 25bhp at 3,300rpm; Gearbox: four speed; Brakes: four wheel drum. Left hand drive.
The Volkswagen Beetle was designed before World War II by Dr. Ferdinand Porsche as instructed by Adolf Hitler, around 50 prototypes being made, the aim being to sell complete cars for under 1000 marks ($240 in those days). It was used in various guises during the war, and when that was over, the British Army ran the factory, producing vehicles for use by the armies of occupation, 1,785 being built in 1945; Germany took control in 1949. After 19 million had been built through-out the world, production of the Beetle ceased in 1978, though some are still being made in Mexico. It was originally known as the K.D.F (strength through joy.)
This car is one of the first Beetles to arrive in America, only two being imported in 1949, followed by 4.5 million in the next 21 years; it is fairly rare, being one of the split rear window models. It was acquired in Farmington, Pennsylvania around November 1980, with funds donated specifically for this purpose by a friend of the Museum. At the time of the donation the Volkswagen was driven from Pennsylvania to San Antonio.
The maroon paint is flaking. The car overall is in sound condition and the cloth interior appears to be original, and in good condition.
Chassis No. 10185180
Maroon with beige cloth interior
Engine: four-cyclinder air-cooled, 1,131cc, 25bhp at 3,300rpm; Gearbox: four speed; Brakes: four wheel drum. Left hand drive.
The Volkswagen Beetle was designed before World War II by Dr. Ferdinand Porsche as instructed by Adolf Hitler, around 50 prototypes being made, the aim being to sell complete cars for under 1000 marks ($240 in those days). It was used in various guises during the war, and when that was over, the British Army ran the factory, producing vehicles for use by the armies of occupation, 1,785 being built in 1945; Germany took control in 1949. After 19 million had been built through-out the world, production of the Beetle ceased in 1978, though some are still being made in Mexico. It was originally known as the K.D.F (strength through joy.)
This car is one of the first Beetles to arrive in America, only two being imported in 1949, followed by 4.5 million in the next 21 years; it is fairly rare, being one of the split rear window models. It was acquired in Farmington, Pennsylvania around November 1980, with funds donated specifically for this purpose by a friend of the Museum. At the time of the donation the Volkswagen was driven from Pennsylvania to San Antonio.
The maroon paint is flaking. The car overall is in sound condition and the cloth interior appears to be original, and in good condition.