The Volkswagen Beetle 1600 S is one of South Africa’s most beloved and recognisable air-cooled classics. Produced at Volkswagen’s Uitenhage plant from 1975 to 1979, it represented the final evolution of the Beetle before local production came to an end.

This particular example enjoys long-term ownership, having been a gift from father to son, and has remained cherished ever since. It retains its original curved windscreen, 1600 cc twin-port flat-four engine, and four-speed manual gearbox. The 1600 S featured subtle styling and mechanical refinements over earlier models, improved ventilation, updated trim, and a touch more performance at around 50 hp (37 kW).

She wears her years with pride, showing beautiful patina in the paintwork that tells her story honestly. The interior remains pure 1970s nostalgia, factory-correct and full of that unmistakable Beetle charm. It’s a solid, running example that could be enjoyed as-is or lightly refreshed while preserving its originality.

With over 285 000 Beetles assembled in South Africa, few long-term survivors carry stories as personal as this. The 1600 S stands as a reminder of when simplicity, durability, and design purity made the Beetle a household name, a delightful classic to drive, preserve, or enjoy as part of any air-cooled collection.