it looks like a twin port so better to get parts for than a single port, get yourself a copy of volksworld and look in the ads to see what others are going for and it contains information on specialist parts suppliers etc.
Glass size, tail lights etc tally with the J suffix reg plate making it a 1970/71 standard Beetle origionally. 1600 dual port would suggest 1971 if it's the origional engine- could just as easily began life as a 13 or 1500. Can't see it being an investment personally... not early enough and it's been cut about to make a Baja which = smaller market
The classic UK market version was called the "HUMBUG".
Should be possible to revert back to standard with repair panels for front spare wheel well and bumper mounts with similar panels for rear.
Standard would be worth more than current specification (plus you could resell the fibreglass bits). Was it the seller that told you they fetch good money IMO the £750 is about what it's worth, in current body state, repaired and on the road so don't expect any profit if you plan of reselling. ie it isn't worth sellers asking price of £750 - especially without MOT.
Thanks for the help guys, thats why i love this place, theres such a selection knowlegable folk.
So it said its a `HumBug`
Was there a few different types about or did they change the design, i ask as the bonnet on the `HumBug` is different, as it wraps around the headlights, unlike the one in the OP.
Oh yes it was a 1300cc ( still on logbook) but now 1600cc, so its not original engine.
I am liking it more now, if not any money in it aslong as i get back what i spend on it i will be happy, i know it always doesnt work that way, but i will see i can knock him down to maybe £650.
Know thats the same style init, same bonnet aswell, i mite have to buy the Tamiya version aswell a sit looks the same and as you say colour, i can go on the beach and play with them together lol
I am liking it more now, if not any money in it aslong as i get back what i spend on it i will be happy, i know it always doesnt work that way, but i will see i can knock him down to maybe £650.
Why not ask seller if you can take it for an MOT (at your expense) before you commit ? That way you will have a better idea what, if anything, needs doing . Better to know before hand that it needs, say, £500 of work so you can adjust your offer accordingly rather than after you've paid the £650.
Hi Paul, yes thats a good idea mate, i need to find what value they are first though really. I have jusy joined a VW forum to see if they can help with that, a few say if the engine and box is sound and the neater channel and floor is not rotten its a good buy, plus other body work, i can do all the repairs myself, but if its in need of a engine rebuild or the like i am not sure on the cost of parts or finding them yet to get a price sorted.
I know the chap selling it and i ahve bought a lot of things of him in the past and made good money, but these cars are new to me, never even been in one, but always wanted one.
I will go back up to his place and give it a good looking over asap. he isnt in a big rush which is a good thing.
One of the problems with VW kits including the Humbug is they rarely were built on sound, solid, cars. Normally it was a "way" of keeping a rotten car on the road.
Everything is repairable on VW's and prices aren't too bad but whilst you can dismiss a few items as "expected for age" be careful you don't buy something that needs 100% restoration unless very cheap.
Beetles can be addictive - I've had two.