1952 Volkswagen Split-Window Beetle

The story of the Beetle is well known; it was designed to provide cheap transport for the hard working German masses. Initially they were built in very small numbers before and during World War II, later the Beetle literally rose from the ashes of Volkswagen's bombed-out Wolfsburg factory to become an instant success across Europe, Britain, America and virtually every other country in the world.

The model evolved through various facelifts and numerous mechanical changes - there were more than 70,000 identifiable modifications - and it also provided a platform for other models, including commercial vehicles and sporting derivatives such as those by Karmann-Ghia. It was this constant development and attention to detail which allowed the Beetle to maintain its remarkable sales success , and as production raced past the 15,000,000 mark, the Beetle went on to be known as "The Best Selling' car of all time. But this record was eventually superseded by the VW Golf.

However, it is the early "split rear window' Beetles that are most sought after amongst collectors. The first Beetle prototypes were built in 1938 and in very small numbers. It wasn't until after the war, in 1946, that production started again at the Volkswagen factory and by 1949 the very first American imports began to leave Germany and they caused a sensation with the American public, who, until this time, had never fully embraced the idea of small, economic, foreign cars. The 'split-window' continued until March of 1953 and is still regarded today as 'the' Beetle to own.

This very rare 'Zwitter' model ( apparently a nickname given to these cars as they have a combination of both spilt and oval windows) was discovered by the current owner in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 2009 and sent off for a three year restoration. Pictures show the car in a complete, but sorry state as work started in October 2009. A full folder of bills and receipts (totalling over $30,000) can be found in the history file along with pictures of every stage of the restoration. All of the work was carried out by marque experts Motorkars of Columbus, Ohio.

Finished in the original colour of Mittelblau Blue and having covered only running in mileage since completion, this beautiful Beetle is on the button and ready for extended use.