Today’s small cars—particularly the European imports—are like coffee. You can’t just order a cup of black joe anymore. As at Starbucks, the options seem unlimited. At Fiat, the 500 Pop, Sport, Lounge, Turbo, and Abarth (not to mention the Gucci edition) were not enough. They recently introduced wagon, electric, and high-performance convertible models. Meanwhile, Mini offers its cars in “10 million” variations, due to all the available options and color schemes. And at the recent LA Auto Show, Volkswagen introduced its new line of Beetle Convertibles, which includes a whopping 11 trim levels.
The tastiest Beetle Convertible flavors are the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s editions, which we showcase below. Surprisingly, the differences between the three are not just cosmetic. Witness:
2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Makes LA Auto Show Debut
Special Edition Beetles
’50s Edition Beetle
MSRP: $28,595
Powertrain: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, automatic
Special Features (compared to base model): leather upholstery, center console, unique interior and exterior trim
Color: Black
’60s Edition Beetle
MSRP: $32,395
Powertrain: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, automated manual (dual clutch)
Special Features (compared to base model): unique interior and exterior trim, center console, keyless access and starting, Fender sound system, satellite radio, high-definition radio, steering-wheel radio controls, navigation system, leather upholstery, fog lights, sport suspension, 18-inch tires
Color: Denim Blue
’70s Edition
MSRP: $28,595
Powertrain: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, automatic
Special Features (compared to base model): center console, keyless access and starting, satellite radio, high-definition radio, steering-wheel radio controls, unique interior and exterior trim, navigation system, Fender sound system, 18-inch tires
Color: Toffee Brown
Quick Spin: 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Dune
