Chris Evans (EVO) 1960 Beetle.

Many years have passed since I ‘owned’ my last VW.  My first car was a 1964 Beetle, followed by a ’71S/Bug and finally a ’73 curved window.  I sold that back in 1979.

For years I have always thought that one day I would like to get my hands on a good, straight, rust free Beetle that I could play with on week-ends (so long as it was OK with the other half!!!) Well, many years on, (after pestering the other half for many years) I have just purchased my long awaited week-end driver. I was going to buy the usual beat up Beetle and commence restoration over the next several years or so, however with not a lot of time on my hands most weekends and none during the week, I thought that I would start searching the classifieds for an already completed project.  Well, I finally found my ‘new love’ at Collaroy Plateau, a fully restored 1960 Beetle.  The previous owner was a member of Club Vee Dub and Pittwater Car Club.  I am the third owner of my Beetle, the first residing in Bathurst and owning it from 1960 – 1993.  The motor is a 1640cc and the interior has been fully re-trimmed retaining most of its original look.  It has an adjustable front end, with 195 x 15 front and 215 x 15 rear.  Since its restoration, (predominantly undertaken by Peter Munn) the engine has travelled a mere 1600 miles. A speedo from a ’68 Beetle has been installed that makes it easier understanding fuel levels. The original radio still works, but is a little wanting compared to my recently installed Alpine CD running 6 x 9 speakers.

I promised the previous owner that I wouldn’t change a thing as the restoration was exactly to my tasting. I enjoy taking the car out on weekends and recently drove to the Central Coast for a test run.  The car purred all the way.  It takes pride of place in my garage (under a car cover) and is religiously washed and detailed each week-end. I look forward to meeting other members who have a common interest and just enjoying my days out cruising.