1956 VW BEETLE

MODEL OVERVIEW

The 1956 Volkswagen Beetle is a cherished model year that retains the iconic oval rear window, a feature unique to Beetles built between 1953 and 1957. This model is also distinguished by its pop-out semaphore indicators—thin, illuminated mechanical arms that extend from the B-pillars when turning. Featuring a charmingly simple interior with ivory bakelite knobs, a two-spoke steering wheel, and minimal instrumentation. The 1956 Beetle combined mechanical simplicity with durable engineering and period styling that has since become deeply emblematic of the Volkswagen brand.

AUCTION CAR:

This Australian-delivered 1956 Beetle is presented in a nice two-tone combination of Beige Grey over Savannah Beige, with a lightly aged patina that reflects its classic appeal. While visually styled with various enhancements, the car has also undergone mechanical updates to ensure it performs reliably in modern traffic, including a more powerful twin-port engine, 12-volt electrics, and upgraded braking.

Under long-term enthusiast ownership, this car has been maintained with care, with all major suspension components, bushings, and driveline items refurbished or replaced in recent years. Importantly, the body, floor pan, and spare wheel well are free of visible rust, making this a structurally sound and dry example ready for immediate enjoyment. With its well-balanced blend of originality, performance upgrades, and period details, this Beetle is a true turn-key cool classic.

DRIVE-LINE:

The car sits on its original numbered 1956 Chassis and is powered by a strong 1600cc AD-code twin-port engine, a common and well-regarded upgrade over the original 1200cc powerplant. The engine has just had a full service, including the installation of a new carburettor, and it runs cleanly with excellent throttle response. A 12-volt alternator conversion has been fitted, bringing improved electrical and starting reliability, and the car features an entirely new engine wiring harness, professionally installed for modern safety.

Braking has been significantly upgraded with four-wheel disc brakes, giving the car excellent stopping power and confidence in traffic. The front end features a narrowed, adjustable-height king and link pin beam, allowing the ride height to be tuned to suit the driver’s preference without compromising ride quality. The full suspension system has been renewed over the past few years, with bushings, dampers, and components refreshed to ensure tight and responsive handling.

EXTERIOR:

Finished in Beige Grey over Savannah Beige, this Beetle’s paintwork has a mild weathered patina that enhances its vintage character. The body panels are straight, panel fitment is good, and the overall appearance is honest and inviting. The Floor pans are very clean with no signs of rust. Chrome bumpers, window trims, and lighting bezels remain bright and in good order, with only light wear consistent with use.

The car rides on 15-inch Porsche-style Fuchs wheels, offering a subtle performance flair that complements its stance and visual presence. The roof is fitted with a rare and high quality stainless steel and timber slat roof rack, adding a classic surf-era look and enhancing practicality for weekend getaways. Factory style rear pop-out quarter windows are fitted and are functional, providing extra ventilation and a desirable period detail. This Beetle retains its original semaphore indicators, which extend from the B-pillars and illuminate — a signature factory feature of early Beetles, in full working condition.

INTERIOR:

The interior of the car is bright, clean, and includes cleverly styled items. Professionally upholstered in cream vinyl, the seats and door cards along with headlining and carpets present in very fine condition, with no major marks or wear visible. Rubbers and door seals have been replaced for a solid feel. The dashboard is finished in beige grey and retains the correct gauge cluster and interior chrome detailing, all of which presents with a soft shine and minimal signs of age.

Instrumentation is clear, functional, and correct for the model year, with no aftermarket modifications detracting from the factory look. Added additions of a wicker dash shelf and fantastic little Venetian blind for the rear window add character. The feel of the cabin is both welcoming and authentic, combining 1950s simplicity with thoughtful preservation.

SUMMARY:

This 1956 Volkswagen Beetle is a beautifully presented oval-window model that blends period charm with well-considered mechanical enhancements. Retaining its original factory semaphore indicators, a rust-free structure, and lightly patinated two-tone paint, it maintains its visual authenticity while offering real-world usability thanks to a 1600cc twin-port engine, 12V electrics, disc brakes, and a renewed suspension setup.

With highlights such as Porsche Fuchs-style wheels, pop-out windows, and roof racks, this Beetle is ready for club runs, Sunday cruises, or simply admired as a stylish and functional icon of 1950s automotive design.

For the collector or enthusiast looking for a turn-key classic with real personality, this example is hard to overlook.

VIN: 1121461

ENGINE: AD753495

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Inspection:

• Inspection is advised and welcomed at our Showroom by appointment.
• Inspection times: Monday – Friday 10:00 am – 4:30 pm & Saturday 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Professional inspections are advised and welcomed by appointment.

Contact Us:

• Please contact us with any questions on (03) 9580 7369 or email: [email protected]

Buyers Premium & Payment:

• Buyers Premium is 8.8% of Winning Bid Amount. (GST Inc.) Debited from Auction Winners Bank Card as deposit.
  Example: $50,000 Winning Bid + Buyers Premium $4,400 (8.8%) = $54,400 AUD Total Amount.
• The Winning Bidder will be sent an Invoice to be paid within 5 Days. Payment is by EFT Bank Transfer.
• All Vehicles must be collected within 7 days of the Auction close, unless otherwise agreed.

How to Bid:

• Register & become a Verified Bidder. Follow these easy Steps on the – BUY – page!
• Bids must be at least $250 higher than the current bid. You may enter a higher bid at any time
• When placing a Bid, do not use a ‘comma mark’. (Example $10000 equals $10,000)
• If Reserve Price is Met, a yellow banner will say “Reserve Met” on the Lot Auction Page.
• Auction will extend by another 2 Minutes, if a bid is placed within 2 minutes of Auction End.
• If the Reserve Price is not met, the highest bidder has first right to negotiate purchase.

Transport:

Estimate costs for Enclosed Transport from Chicane Auctions Melbourne Showroom to:

• SYDNEY – $1,600+*
• COFFS HARBOUR – $2,000+*
• BRISBANE – $3,000+*
• ADELAIDE – $1,600+*
• PERTH – $4,500+*

*Prices are indicative estimates, pending final delivery address.

The buyer is responsible for arranging with transport company & all costs.

Conditions of Sale:

• VEHICLE INFORMATION AND CONTRACT OF SALE:
  All information provided regarding each vehicle has been supplied by the vendor. Chicane Classic Cars Pty Ltd acts solely as an agent and does not warrant the accuracy of this information. The contract of sale is strictly between the buyer and the seller.
• VEHICLE INSPECTION AND VERIFICATION:
  Bidders are strongly encouraged to personally inspect each vehicle at our showroom to verify its condition, description, and authenticity. Alternatively, bidders may arrange for an independent professional inspection prior to placing any bids.
• VEHICLE REVIEW:
  Chicane Classic Cars Auctions conducts internal reviews to determine the suitability of vehicles for auction. These reviews are not undertaken by qualified inspectors, mechanics, or engineers. Any commentary or opinion provided regarding a vehicle’s condition is subjective and should not be relied upon as a professional assessment.
• CLASSIC CARS DISCLAIMER:
  Classic vehicles inherently carry flaws and imperfections, some of which may not be readily apparent. Vehicles older than 25 years may have inaccurate or unverified odometer readings. Bidders are strongly advised to conduct a comprehensive mechanical inspection and service prior to operating any classic vehicle.
• DESCRIPTION ACCURACY AND RESPONSIBILITY:
  While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of vehicle descriptions provided in catalogues or at auction, Chicane Classic Cars Pty Ltd and its agents accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions. Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the condition, authenticity, and suitability of any vehicle prior to bidding.
• DISPUTES BETWEEN BUYER AND SELLER:
  Any disputes arising in relation to a vehicle (referred to as a “Lot”) are strictly between the buyer and the seller. Chicane Classic Cars Pty Ltd acts exclusively as the vendor’s agent and is not a party to the sale contract.
• INDEMNITY AND RELEASE:
  By registering and bidding under these terms and conditions, the buyer irrevocably releases Chicane Classic Cars Pty Ltd, its auctioneers, and agents from any claim, demand, or legal action arising in relation to the Lot. The buyer further agrees to fully indemnify Chicane Classic Cars Pty Ltd against any and all liability, costs, or expenses incurred in relation to such claims, on a full indemnity basis. Participation in the auction constitutes acceptance of these terms and conditions.

• All cars are checked on the Personal Property Securities Register – PPSR, and are sold without finance owing or appear on the Written Off Vehicle Register. GST will not be added to, or included in, the final bid price of this item. GST is only included in the buyers premium.

• Items are sold as is, without warranty or registration, under VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT Auction Guidelines – CLICK HERE TO VIEW.

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