During VW's Type-1 production years they built three basic models in the sedan, sun-roof sedan (rag-top) and of course the cabriolet (convertible). As with most high production cars, there are always those cars that are uniquely rare and attract serious collectors. The 1948 to 1952 beetle's are very respectable in this category because of their unique spilt rear window. But the "Zwitter" (German Zwitter Kafer and/or hybrid beetle) tops the charts for the October of 1952 to March of 1953 time period, a short 5 month model transition period and/or changeover that produced these special cars...
The Zwitter variant was built on the old split window 48-52 body with the new dash of the oval window models, chrome trim was used instead of aluminum, vent windows in the doors, unique bumpers/headlamps/tail lamps & featured many Zwitter only interior components. As for this example, it goes without saying, that even fewer were produced as a Rag Top and/or sun-roof sedan with tri-fold canvas roof. Now that we have brought you up to speed, let's talk about this fine example...
The current caretaker purchased this vehicle in Northern California with prior known 100% original show car restoration history. The body, paint and interior was excellent in presentation but the level did not meet his high standards of ownership, presence and overall functionality. The entire near perfect black exterior body with basecoat/clearcoat finish was completely disassembled, properly prepared and professionally finished in a stunning but proper $12,000 single stage black re-finish...
During this process, the interior of the car received the same level of attention by a well known premier VW restoration facility, Lenny Copp's "West Coast Classic Restorations". Where it received all new correct striped cloth upholstery, door panels, pillows & headliner ($7K). Other noted items addressed included repairing/replacing some of the Rag-Top slide back mechanism, refurbished Kilometer speedometer, refurbished working clock, show quality jack and new OEM style tires...
While this unit represents itself as factory in appearance and presence, it's original beauty is not lost with very tasteful but subtle mechanical updates that allow you to actually drive/enjoy it safely, at todays road speeds. Updates to it's functionality include the replacement of the current non-original engine with a complete 1915cc engine rebuilt by well known So-Cal VW engine specialist "Old Speed" of Paramount, CA., fully synchronized "Freeway Flyer" manual transmission, 12V electrical system and 4 wheel Disc brakes fitted to accept factory wheels. We think you get the idea...
In closing, the current caretaker has presented/prepared an exceptionally nice example that can be admired for it's original beauty with the ability to actually drive it. Of which, it has been tested and enjoyed with just over 1,600 easy miles and no disappointments. The end result is a subtle and very captivating re-fined original and/or resto-mod. We say "Drive it Anywhere and Enjoy"! (see HD video)
