1996 VW Beetle with folding roof

The last rear-engined, air-cooled Beetle, number 21,529,464, left the production line at Volkswagen de México in Puebla in2003, destined for its maker's museum in Wolfsburg. Up till 2003 Mexico was the only country in which the legendary Beetle, affectionately known as the "Vocho", was still in production. The Beetle has been produced or assembled in more than 20 countries worldwide and, in Germany alone, where production ceased in 1978, more than 16.2 million were built. In Mexico, where production of the "Vocho" had continued uninterrupted for 39 years, almost 1.7 million have been made.

There is something unmistakeable about the way Beetles drive, and you can tell a good one almost instantly. This car certainly falls into that category with light precise steering and pedals. The flat four engine starts easily and pulls well through all the gears. To say this little Beetle is unique would be somewhat of an understatement, not only is it a latter Mexican built car but benefits from a very unusual folding roof, folded back there is excellent all round visibility, making you feel very connected to your surroundings.

We are informed by the vendor that this particular car was actually converted to RHD by VW UK; the silver bodywork is in good order throughout bar a small ding to the OSR wheel arch. The interior is classic VW and really looks the part, the dashboard is simplicity itself and is complimented by the grey cloth interior and also benefits from electric windows.

A Mexican built Beetle is a rare site nowadays, a folding roof model such as this even more so. Arriving in time for the summer weather, this is the ideal warm weather classic to enjoy with both friends and family. Mechanically simple, reliable, who needs air conditioning when you have a car like this.