Description

Brighton Motorsports is pleased to present this rare, fully-restored, period and type-correct 1956 Volkswagen Type-1 Karmann Kabriolett – an early and prime example of the “Beetle Convertible” that is as close to perfect as we’ve ever seen.
 
The history of the Beetle Kabriolett is part of Volkswagen lore from day one. Right from the Beetle’s early beginnings in the late 1930’s, a cabriolet, or convertible was planned. Developed straight from the early war-era Volkswagen KDF-Wagen, by the design and engineering of Dr. Ing. Ferdinand Porsche, the post-War era Karmann cars are as near to the original idea of the “People’s Car” than any VW models that followed. This car is the pure embodiment Volkswagen history, and it is among the ultimate for Volkswagen enthusiasts and collectors.
 
Aside from the singular rarity and specialty of this car – it is also a favorite for a wide variety of collectors for its absolute joy to behold and drive; its timeless and storied industrial style and design, its mechanical simplicity and above all – its presence as a social icon and cultural art form.
 
Professionally restored to a very high standard, the intent was to preserve this car as it was meant to be. This fine example is very likely better today than when it was a new car, with no detail overlooked. Its bright white paint scheme, with matching white wheels and wide white wall tires are a striking contrast against the black canvas convertible top, and black interior leatherette seats and trim. The rear window is glass, and the convertible top is of the highest quality German canvas with dove-grey headliner. All of the chrome, glass, trim, and accessories are in excellent condition – everything works perfectly, including the semaphores!
 
This car is equipped with the standard, correct 36-horsepower, normally-aspirated 1192-cc rear-mounted 4-cylinder horizontally-opposed air-cooled engine, 4-speed manual transmission, and 6-volt electrics. The car has excellent road manners – the power, shifting, clutch, braking and steering are all well sorted and functioning as they should.
 
This rare, collectible two-owner jewel has for many years been part of a prestigious private collection, and it’s now available for your inspection on our Scottsdale, AZ showroom. If you are seeking a car that is among the best 1956 Volkswagen Karmann Kabriolett “Beetle Convertible” cars available, this car should be on your list of considerations.