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Volkswagen - Classic Beetle (1973)
Discover the timeless appeal of the Volkswagen Classic Beetle. The 1973 model, famous for its distinctive rounded shape and playful personality, remains a prized choice for enthusiasts worldwide. While the Volkswagen Classic Beetle price can vary widely depending on location, mileage, and condition, this iconic car offers a unique blend of nostalgia and practicality. Below we break down the essential details, ideal maintenance insights, and a realistic depreciation look so you can understand what to expect when exploring this beloved model.
Featured in countless classic car shows, the 1973 Beetle is prized by collectors and casual drivers alike. Anyone asking, “what is a 1973 Volkswagen Classic Beetle worth?” should consider the car’s history, rarity, and care status. In the United States, prices for comparable examples often range from used Volkswagen Classic Beetle price inquiries of about $2,000–$5,000, but due to the highly diverse internal and exterior conditions, values can be higher or lower. In European markets, the scale tends to align similarly, with occasional outliers for pristine restorations.
- Engine: 1.2‑litre air‑cooled flat‑four, 38 hp at 5,200 rpm.
- Transmission: 3‑speed, non‑synchromesh (often upgraded to a 4‑speed STF or Torsion‑Clutch for modern users).
- Fuel Type: Gasoline (spark‑ignition). Ideal fuel economy can reach 20–25 mpg.
- Dimensions: Length = 3,750 mm; Width = 1,355 mm; Height = 1,364 mm. Wheelbase = 2,070 mm.
- Body Style: 2‑door sedan with iconic rounded body; optional coupe or van variants.
- Weight: 690–730 kg, depending on trim and optional equipment.
- Suspension: Front MacPherson struts; rear leaf springs; subframe-mounted engine.
- Brakes: Drum brakes on all wheels (modern owners often install disc brakes for safety).
- Top Speed: Approximately 65 mph (105 km/h).
- Production Year Range: 1938‑1993, with the 1973 model marking a late‑golden era before the 1‑3‑4 lineup.
Understanding the Volkswagen Classic Beetle depreciation is key for buyers and sellers. Historical data shows a typical first‑year loss of about 15 % to 20 % of purchase value. Across a five‑year span, depreciation often stabilizes, losing roughly 30 %–40 % overall, depending on mileage and overall restoration. In niche markets, a well‑maintained 1973 Beetle can retain 50 % of its original retail value after a decade, especially if promptly restored.
When comparing to similar classic vehicles, the Volkswagen Classic Beetle 1973 price sits just below certain displacement‑constrained models. For example
Last 20 car trackeds
| Last tracked date | Status | Price | Price rank | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 years ago | used | £18,975.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £18,975.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £10,750.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £10,750.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £10,750.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £10,750.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £10,750.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £10,750.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £10,750.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £12,750.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £12,750.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £8,495.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £8,495.00 | Unlock all links |