Here is a 1969 Volkswagen Beetle 4-Speed Manual, finished in pale blue, over a black interior. Power comes from a 1,500 cc rear-mounted flat four-cylinder engine, paired with a four-speed manual transmission. This Beetle underwent a comprehensive multi-year restoration at the seller’s licensed shop, where no expense was spared to return it to factory specification. Soon after, it became the first item we have ever auctioned, though we were not ready for primetime, improved later that first year, though the auction for this item suffered. We think we are doing better now! The repaint is a period-correct Volkswagen shade, a tribute to 1969’s chrome blue (Volkswagen paint code 51-K). This Beetle is offered by the owner, with two keys, restoration documentation (please see our Gallery) and parts invoices.

The exterior features a completely resprayed body over a restored chassis, complemented by chrome brightwork. The 1969 model is regarded as desirable, being the first to feature independent rear suspension (IRS) and a remote fuel door release, while also marking the last year for the teardrop-shaped front indicators. Exterior equipment includes “pea shooter” twin exhaust outlets, a driver’s side chrome-capped mirror, running boards with ribbed rubber overlays, and a rear “VOLKSWAGEN” badge in familiar company script. As shown in the gallery, glass mostly shows the VW emblem. Minor imperfections include a few hints of weathering on the the mirror caps, condensation visible within the left front indicator, small blemishes on the mirror cap and a few paint chips on the driver’s side rear rim.
This Beetle rides on black-painted 4 x 130 mm steel wheels with original-style chrome covers. All four Steel Belted Metric Radial tires are sized 165R15. , tires that were installed as part of the restoration and have rolled under 1,000 km since. Amber taillights are a European market part while the black headliner is also aftermarket, having replaced a white liner.

The cabin is upholstered in black vinyl with matching front bucket seats, door cards and headliner. The dash face surrounding the instrumentation is finished in the original exterior colour, chrome blue, providing contrast to the black surfaces. Seat belts were replaced during the restoration, with stock items for a later model Beetle. A wood-look glove box door offers additional visual stimulation. The adjustable front seats provide easy ingress and egress, and passengers are protected by three-point seatbelts in front and lap belts in the rear. This was the final model year for the wide headrests. Other features include crank-operated windows, vent windows and VW-branded petals. Minor interior imperfections include a small perforation near the fold lever on the driver’s seat, and unadhered carpet in the rear of the cabin/parcel shelf. Please note that the driver’s seat bottom is covered in a consistent colour of vinyl, in a contrasting pattern.

The two-spoke steering wheel incorporates a period horn control on an inner half-rim and bears a centrally-showcased Volkswagen Wolfsburg crest. Instrumentation is basic, including a 90 MPH speedometer, a fuel gauge and several knobs and warning lights mounted on the dashboard. The five-digit odometer displays under 39,000 mi; true mileage is unknown.

The 1500 cc flat-four carbureted engine was standard for the North American market in 1969. The seller notes that the engine starts readily and runs smoothly. While the engine shows natural signs of age, the air and oil filters are clean, and belts, hoses and ignition wires remain flexible. The distributor cap also presents minimal wear, though new-in-box replacement by Bosch is included, in the glove box. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission, which has been upgraded with a short-shift kit installed by the seller’s shop to modernize shift feel and ease gear engagement.

This 1969 Volkswagen Beetle 4-Speed Manual is offered with two keys, restoration documentation, and an invoice for an in-restoration extensive parts order by the seller in Toronto, Ontario.