Mercedes Benz : Hemmings Find of the Day

Unrestored 1959 Volkswagen Beetle for sale on Hemmings.com. From the seller’s description:

Up for sale is my incredibly original time capsule 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. This car was original purchased at United States Motors, INC. in Brooklyn, NY and spent almost its entire life there. It was subsequently sold to a fellow in Kentucky and then out to CA where I purchased it. I believe I am the 3rd owner of this car. Original sales documents included with sale as well as original owners manual and service booklet.

The car is still wearing its original L335 Capri Blue paint inside and out. The outside has faded over time but there are areas of polishing started to show that it can come back to what it was originally. I have not polished any further. Under the lids (truck and engine) as well as inside shown no wear on the paint and it is as-new condition. Front and rear aprons are in perfect condition. It does not appear that the care was ever in any accidents but there are bumps and bruises on the car. The rear fenders look to possibly have had some paint work done. Otherwise, super straight. There is no rust what so ever on the car. There is surface rust underneath but the pans are solid as are the spare tire well, doors, etc.

The car still has its numbers matching 36hp engine and crash box transmission. The car is 6V. There are 5 new white wall tires. Clutch and brakes have been gone through.

As for the interior, it is all original. The front seats have split at the seams on both seats but not torn up. I don’t know if they can be re-sown and reinstalled. This would be my next step. They have broken apart at the piping. The rear seat is excellent and the headliner is original. There is staining and some tears but overall very nice. Dash is perfect and speedo looks like new with clear needle. Factory radio delete. The car shows 48k miles and it could be original. There is no documentation of this though. Looking at the overall condition of the car as well as the motor and bits and pieces I think it could be true. As far as paperwork goes though I only have the original purchase receipts. All other documentation was lost along the way.

The car is currently registered in my name with YOM CA plates. If the car stays in CA the plates will go with the car, otherwise I will keep them. Car is stored in San Francisco.

I would be happy to answer any questions I can on the car. It is an absolutely beautiful original ’59 and you would be hard pressed to find another in this condition as this price.