1974 Volkswagen Beetle 1303 Karmann Cabriolet – Beautiful, Low-Mileage Example Few cars have achieved the cultural status of the Volkswagen Beetle. Originally conceived in the 1930s under Ferdinand Porsche’s engineering direction, the Beetle was designed to be affordable, practical, and easy to maintain — a true “people’s car.” After World War II, production flourished under British control, and over the following decades, the Beetle evolved while retaining its unmistakable shape. By the time production ended in 2003, more than 21 million examples had been built, making it one of the most recognisable and best-loved cars in the world. The Cabriolet version of the Beetle, produced by Karosserie Karmann from 1950 to 1980, added a touch of open-air charm to the classic silhouette. By the early 1970s, the 1303 series offered significant improvements — a curved windscreen, rack-and-pinion steering, and the most powerful engine yet: a 1600cc unit producing around 50 bhp. This 1974 Volkswagen 1303 Karmann Cabriolet is an original right-hand drive example, first registered new in Australia and equipped with its original 1585cc fuel-injected engine and 4-speed manual gearbox. It was imported to the UK in 1989 by its then owner, Mrs Noreen Bridges of Bedfordshire, and has had just five owners in total. The current owner acquired it in July 1999, later gifting it to his wife for their wedding anniversary — at which point the car was repainted from grey to pink in December 2000, giving it a distinctive and charming appearance. Lovingly maintained for the past 26 years by the same local garage - Mastercar in Kew, Richmond, Surrey, this Beetle has been serviced and MOT’d annually, with its current MOT valid until August 2026. Having covered a believed genuine 53,000 miles from new, it remains in exceptional condition throughout, both mechanically and cosmetically. It drives beautifully and comes with a comprehensive history file, including full MOT history from 1999 and numerous service invoices and maintenance records since its arrival in the UK. Upon sale, the car will receive our 55-point pre-delivery inspection and come with a 3-month mechanical warranty, extendable at additional cost. A delightful example of the iconic Beetle Cabriolet — and a rare chance to own a beautifully kept, low-mileage classic with genuine character and charm. On display at our showrooms in Mortlake, South West London.