1974 Volkswagen Super Beetle Sunbug Convertible
This is our 1974 Volkswagen Sunbug convertible. Jim purchased it about 1976 from his son-in-law's father.
Using Imron paint and a clearcoat, Jim painted his bug the present color in his driveway sometime in the late 1970s. When we get the time and a place to do it, we will have it restored to the original gold color.
The most common Sunbugs were made with a hardtop with sunroof. All were painted gold with clear coat. Other than the gold color, they also had distinguishing parts such as SunBug logo on rear, unique plastic gearshift knob, center console, and leather-looking seats and door panels.
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The engine was professionally rebuilt about 5,000 miles ago. The entire top was replaced and new upholstery was installed about the same time.
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New fabric was placed on the seats rather than vinyl to make them more comfortable and that may also be considered a no-no by perfectionist restorers.
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At one time, Jim considered giving the vehicle to a granddaughter, but thought better of the idea because the car is very fragile and not particularly a safe vehicle for a new driver. In addition, one needs to be a shade-tree mechanic to properly maintain older German technology including regular tune-up, valve adjustment, and brake adjustment. These tasks are no longer required on modern vehicles.
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VW of America made Sunbug series for two years (1973 and 1974). Volkswagen made only 300 Sunbug convertibles in 1974 making it very rare.
This is a picture of an advertising brochure for the Subbug. We were able to buy an original one on the internet.
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Volkswagen used two colors of paint for SunBug. Hellas Beige (L98C-W4) was the first color, but the production line was changed to Harvest Gold Metallic (L99B). When we got the car the earlier color was marked inside the front bonnet.
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When our VW was inspected for 2006-7 the inspector told Jim this was the last year he would approve it in its current condition. According to the state inspector, there was too much rust on the fenders that could cause injury to pedestrians if hit. That is pretty good motivation to finally work on it. Jim recently installed a complete new brake system (lines and wheel cylinders). It needs all four fenders replaced.
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Sunbugs have a distinguishing logo on their rear. The one pictured is a reproduction which we purchased at a VW gathering in Tennessee.
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We considered selling the VW on E-bay several years ago but when Elizabeth's son remarked that if it were his, he would be buried in it rather than sell it, we chose to keep it for a while. It didn't venture out of the garage during 2008. After owning the bug for over 30 years, we are now again thinking of selling it and would do so to the right buyer.
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