1953 VW Beetle Canadian Standard Model For Sale
Here we have a really fun and quite rare 1953 model Beetle that was originally
delivered to Canada. It is a "Canadian Custom" model (or Canadian Standard to some..), which is a unique set of options
that were not found on other market cars. Not a whole lot of these were built and very few remain today.
The Canadian Custom models are a bit of a mix between the European standard and the Deluxe models
that we saw here in the US most often. As a result you see a bit of both when you look around the car.
The other fun part about this particular car is that it truly is one of the earliest Ovals.
1953 was a year of change at the factory that started in October of 1952 with the "Zwitter",
the last of the split rear window cars that had the new style bumpers , 15" wheels and the
Oval window style dashboard with the central speaker grille.
This ended in March of 1953 when the Oval rear window was introduced forever changing
the "architecture" of the original design.
The "early Ovals" have a lot of unique details that make them stand apart from the
55-57 models, and the earlier you go in the Oval range, the more special little items you find.
The car is located near Edmonton Alberta Canada and the known history is that it has been there since at least
the 1970's. It was driven regularly up until the late 90's. It has made many long distance
runs to events in the area including a trip to the GCVW event that was around 900 miles through
the mountains of Canada.
It has been with the current owner for about 10 years .
During his ownership he has maintained it mechanically and replaced
all the window rubber and body seals, new tires, re-chromed the bumpers
and added the super cool fender skirts.
It is an older restoration, but is still quite presentable.
There is room for improvement in the interior and engine detailing perhaps
but just as it is, it is a very fun and attractive car.
Lets hop down underneath the car first and then work our way up.
Of course one of the big concerns with these vintage VWs is rust or rust repair.
Im happy to report that this one is really solid and looks like it always has been.
Heater channels look very solid, as does the body itself.
No signs of panel replacement or spooky stuff.
The only spot that shows any sign of repair is a rectangular patch directly under the battery that was done
decades ago, but is still solid and strong.
Jacking points are firm with no issue
So...there...good solid car to start with.
The engine is all stock and runs sweet.
This is looking like a slightly newer engine to me than the original 25hp.
I will have to have the owner send me the numbers to check dates.
Looks decent in the engine compartment, but certainly some detailing
would improve it greatly.
The owner did just recently buy a new copper fuel line for the car which will come with it.
Semaphore turn signals
Fully functional
One of the "Standard" details on these cars is the painted posts and just the simple headliner
covering the center of the roof.
The three spoke steering wheel is also a standard model detail that is pretty cool to see.
Being a 53, this does have the push button starter on the left of the dash.
The speedometer is a later model unit, in Kilometers.
The ashtray is the correct "ringless" version but it has had a handle added to it
(which makes it much easier to use)
Great vintage radio in the dash, but again...perhaps a bit newer than the car.
The fender skirts are an awesome addition and with the whitewalls and two tone
painted wheels it really gives the car some class and style.
Cool
Looks like there is a little seam pull on the headliner.
Otherwise looking good
Nice early H logo heater knob
Headlight rings have faded a bit but the lenses and reflectors look awesome.
The interior was redone in the 80's and it shows.
Still in nice condition, but obviously incorrect.
This car would truly transform itself with a fresh correct interior in it.
Correct original chassis
A peek under the battery.
Steering wheel cover is pretty neat
So pretty!
I love the color and the way the car sits.
Looks like a proper hood from here with no bump under the VW logo.
Nice gaps and fit to the doors, hood and fenders.
The heart taillights of course are a mega cool early Oval detail
Front spare tire well looks solid
Pretty straight and clean in here.
Detail of the taillights
Alberta 53 plate is nice to see as well
Carpet is showing its age a bit as well.
Matching spare wheel with a blackwall tire.
Fuel tank is a slightly newer wide mouth cap tank.
On the rear seat down at the bottom right of this images you can see a tear.
I loved the painted posts and of course the ribbed door design that the early Ovals have.
In closing this is really a very good car that with a little attention could be
a great car. Detail the engine, install a fresh correct interior and perhaps chase a few proper 53 parts
just for the sport of it, and each and every effort will give you a sense of accomplishment.
Fun to drive and enjoy just as it is, with just enough little stuff to do to make it feel like "yours"
as you enjoy it over time.
Asking
$18,950
For More Info...CALL
951 767 1600
or email oldbug@earthlink.net