A rare gem is hitting the auction block: a 1972 Volkswagen Beetle with just 104 miles on the odometer. This isn’t just any Beetle; it’s a Baja Champions Special Edition, a model that celebrates the Beetle’s triumphs in off-road racing. If you’re a car enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a slice of automotive history, this is a moment worth paying attention to.
What Makes This Beetle Special?
The 1972 Baja Champions Special Edition is one of only 1,000 units produced to commemorate the Beetle’s success in off-road racing from 1967 onward. It’s based on the European-spec Marathon Beetle, which was itself a nod to the production of VW’s 15 millionth car. This special edition features a striking Marathon Blue paint job, black leatherette seats, and 15-inch Lemmerz pressed-steel sports wheels. The U.S. version stands out with “Baja” lettering, stripes, and unique driving lights mounted on the frunk lid, along with a commemorative plaque that adds to its allure.
Underneath the stylish exterior, this Beetle is built on the 1302 Super Beetle platform. VW made several updates to keep the Beetle competitive against rising rivals like the AMC Gremlin and the Toyota Corolla. The 1302 introduced McPherson struts, a larger fuel tank, and a more powerful engine, boosting output to 60 horsepower. These changes were crucial as the Beetle faced increasing competition in the automotive market.
The Impact of the Beetle on American Car Culture
It’s easy to overlook just how significant the Volkswagen Beetle was in the U.S. market. At its peak in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the Beetle sold around 400,000 units annually. To put that in perspective, that’s more than the total sales of all VW models combined in 2024. The Beetle wasn’t just a car; it was a cultural icon, symbolizing freedom and the spirit of the open road.
However, most surviving Beetles today are either well-used or have undergone extensive restoration. Finding one as original as this 1972 model is a rarity. It’s a testament to the car’s legacy that even after decades, enthusiasts still seek out these classics, not just for their nostalgic value but also for their unique engineering and design.
A Look at the Auction
This particular Beetle has an interesting backstory. Originally sold in 1972 for $2,261 (which is roughly equivalent to $17,298 today), it was retained by Chick Iverson VW of Newport Beach, California, until 1996. It then found a new home with the late owner of VW parts specialist West Coast Metric. This history adds to its appeal, making it not just a car but a piece of automotive history.
For those interested in owning a piece of this legacy, the auction is live on Bring A Trailer. It’s a rare opportunity to acquire what is essentially a brand-new Beetle, a vehicle that has been preserved in time and is ready for a new chapter.
The big takeaway? This 1972 Volkswagen Beetle isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a celebration of a car that has left an indelible mark on automotive history. If you’re considering making a bid, remember that owning a classic like this is about more than just the car itself—it’s about becoming part of a story that spans generations. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.