What is the cheapest Classic Car Insurance for a Volkswagen Beetle?

The decades may have come and gone, for the Volkswagen Beetle continues to be a popular classic choice for many petrolheads both young and old. Die hard fans will always be precious about the earliest models, but there's a lot to be said for the more safety-focussed 1303 from 1972 with its padded dash and wraparound windscreen. As always, a Beetle's power comes from the air-cooled units of 1285cc and 44bhp, and 1584cc and 50bhp... both of which will get expensive if you go hunting for more horses. It was in this form that the Beetle remained in production in Mexico until 2003.

Can I get it on a classic policy?

The classic Volkswagen Beetle is considered historic by insurers.

What are the benefits?

As well as being with a specialist insurer, a classic policy will often offer benefits such as limited mileage discounts, free European cover, agreed valuation and club member discounts

How much are they worth?

Go for an early cabriolet and you'll be looking at spending £35k for one of the very best examples, while a down at heel 1970s example could easily be bagged for not much more than a grand. About £6k should get you a good example of a late model Bug.

What to look for when buying one?

Rust, rust and more rust. Beetles can (and do) rust everywhere, although pretty much all panels are available. Well-looked after engines can go for many miles, but watch for issues caused by overheating.

How can I lower the cost of my insurance

Insurers often offer discounts if you’re a member of a classic car club. When it comes to the Beetle you have a few clubs to choose from, including the Volkswagen Owners' Club of Great Britain. You could also get yourself a discount by keeping the miles down. If you've recently passed your test, consider taking a PassPlus, IAM or other driver qualification - some insurers will chip a bit off your premium if you do. Keeping your car garaged is also another good idea.

What about modifications?

Always tell your insurer about any modifications to the vehicle - some modifcations such as security systems or tracking devices can reduce your premium. But if your insurer knows your car is modified, you'll most likely get like-for-like cover so you won't be out of pocket if you need to make a claim.

Insurance quotes

The following fully-comprehensive insurance quotes are based on insuring a Volkswagen Beetle Cabrio 1302S for a 40-year-old Cambridgeshire-based man in full-time employment. He is named driver on another car and has clean UK licence. Mileage is limited to 3000 a year and the car is kept garaged overnight.

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