Volkswagen Beetle Type 1
The air-cooled people’s car that became a worldwide cultural icon.
- Power
- 34 bhp
- Top speed
- 74 mph
- Est. value
- $10k–$26k
About the Volkswagen Beetle Type 1
The Type 1 Beetle’s rear-mounted air-cooled engine and simple construction helped make it one of the world’s most recognisable cars. Volkswagen’s 1965 1200 A received a 34 PS engine, while larger-engined versions also joined the range. Light steering, a characteristic flat-four sound and unhurried pace define the experience. Rust, originality and engine specification matter much more than outright speed to collectors.
Volkswagen Beetle Type 1 specs
The Volkswagen Beetle Type 1 produces 34 bhp (25 kW) and 82 Nm (60 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 74 mph (119 km/h).
| Make | Volkswagen |
|---|---|
| Model | Beetle |
| Generation | Type 1 |
| Trim | 1200 |
| Years | 1938–2003 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | 2-door saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 1.2L naturally aspirated flat-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,192 cc (1.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 34 bhp (25 kW) at 3,600 rpm |
| Torque | 82 Nm (60 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 74 mph (119 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Volkswagen Beetle Type 1 worth?
A typical Volkswagen Beetle Type 1 is estimated to be worth $10,000 – $26,000 (about £7,500 – £19,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Volkswagen Beetle Type 1 rarity in CarSpot
The Volkswagen Beetle Type 1 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Volkswagen Beetle Type 1 fun facts
- Volkswagen began officially using the Beetle name only in 1968.
- The Type 1 continued in production in Mexico long after German manufacture ended.
