Turbo Rat Bug

Here we have an interesting, rat rod-inspired ’61 Beetle.  If you look at some of the images, along with the all-new interior, you’ll see that the vehicle was gone through and the rusty patina is intentional.  More significant here is the turbocharged 2.3L four with dyno results showing 213 HP in this tiny beast.

Beetles bring out a lot of feelings in people, but most enthusiasts I know have a strange attraction to them.  Many have memories from growing up with Beetles in the family, but almost all appreciate the simplicity and genius of a design that not only lived on for decades but also put Porsche on the global map.

Personally, I love the idea of the power level in this car, but I’d like some way to hide the engine for at least some level of sleeper feel.  I’d also like to ‘destance’ it and put some steelies on it.  Of course, if I’d built it, I also might not have gone with the patina look.  A nice, 60s tan would suit this well.  Okay, so I’m picking it apart, but I’m still interested.

Anyway, given the intentional patina, this car seems to be much better than it appears at first glance. Supposedly, the seller has a top ready to go on.  Of course, one always must wonder why it wasn’t installed – other problems or just lack of time?

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Miami, FL
$5,000 with ZERO bids and reserve not met

The engine is a bit hard to hide…

Aside from aggressive wheels, the front looks pretty much stock.

Interior is claimed to be all-new and I love the green.  Under-dash shelf is a cool period touch.

Interesting stereo!  At least they didn’t cut holes…

Again, here’s the engine. I wonder how well it cools…

Here’s a shot of what’s underneath, sans patina.

Ad text:

DETAILED PICTURES OF THIS VEHICLE ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

OVERVIEW

The item currently for sale is a 1961 VW Beetle convertible.  This is as unique as they come people!  This car has the best of everything including the famed rat rod looking rust patina!  This vehicle come with a 2332cc motor that produces a whopping 213HP backed by a 4 speed rancho super diff.  The interior has been redone in TMI with a banjo steering wheel and new tan canvas convertible top kit is complete and ready for install.  It’s definitely a head turner wherever it goes!  This vehicle come with a State of Florida clean title.

EXTERIOR

For starters, the exterior of the vehicle was done in rust patina and is in great condition except for a little hole on the left side quarter panel.  The rest of the body and pan are solid and it’s a 1961 matching body and pan, original heater channels, original floors, never had any metal work done to it.  The front suspension is a 6 inch narrowed beam, brand new steering box, brand new tie rods and brand new king pins.  The transmission is a rancho super diff with a 388 pinion and an 82nd fourth.  The motor is a 2332 with a CB performance fuel injection system (a 4 knob).  The dyno sheet shows 213hp…pretty impressive for a beetle convertible!

INTERIOR

As for the interior, it’s got a new TMI kit installed.  I have a brand new canvas top kit in the box.  The kit comes with the top, moldings, headliner, rear window parts and rear window.  the top is complete ready to install.  Car comes with a banjo steering wheel, Gene Berg shifter and a bamboo package tray under the dash.  The interior is wired in for a sound system including an amp, speaker and iPod connection.  The original metal paneling inside the car was untouched to keep the genuine 61 feel.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, this 61 convertible is something different, unique, a true head turner and definitely worthy of your consideration!  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.


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