1951 Split Window Deluxe VW Beetle
Saw this listed in the local classifieds mistakenly as a
1949 VW Beetle body/chassis. Found in a barn here in Northern New
Hampshire, this '51 beetle shell has been kept by the same owner for the last
30-something years, many of which in the top of his barn. Initially he was
going to make it a dune buggy or hot rod, then wanted to restore it to original
for his daughter. As life would have it, he just never got around to it
and decided to sell it. Unfortunately, as much as I really want to, I
think too many of the parts are gone to restore it back to its original 1951
glory- but amazingly the body is very solid.
The original heater channels are still fully in
tact. All glass is present with the "SEKURIT" logos on every one, and the
door glass rolls right up and down! This beetle was a deluxe export model
as it has chrome trim around the windows, and the correct ribbed chrome side and
hood moldings. The front and rear of the car were clipped way back when,
and require replacement. The body does have "crotch coolers"- very
'cool' vents that open in the front quarters and allowed ventilation into the
vehicle. I'm not sure on the route I'm going to take with this one.
I could make it a 'rat rod' and find a decent chassis with a running
engine/transmission to bolt the body on and go... not sure yet. Too much
of it is gone to get all the way back to original (without tremendous cost), but
what is left is an extremely solid start. Any input/suggestions/comments
greatly appreciated. Just
Email me!
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Here is a picture when I picked it up from the prior owner's barn (pictured)
back in October, 2004:
Got it back to my garage, and steamed off the exterior to get rid of some of the
bird poop and other droppings that had accrued on the body over the years.
Rear clip gone, what's left is a little rough.
Above: I got the original fenders with the correct horn grills, and the original
hood with the correct trim and three bolt attaching area.
Below: Love that split window dash, all aluminum trim in place, semaphore switch
and starter button.
Came with a pan, but unfortunately it is a 1956 pan.
Below: Inside looking out!
We'll see where this one goes. I'll be sure to post updates
as I get going on this project!
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