1979 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible with Only 1,800 Miles Joins Ron Sturgeon Collection

The 1979 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible, a symbol of automotive freedom and simplicity, has found a new home at the DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas. With just 1,800 miles on the odometer, this pristine example from the Ron Sturgeon Collection represents the final chapter of an iconic production run that began in 1949 with Karmann, the renowned German coachbuilder.

This particular Beetle is part of the evolved VW 1303 series, which introduced MacPherson strut front suspension and a curved windshield, offering improved comfort and stability while retaining the car's charming character. The convertible top folds neatly at the rear, inviting open-air cruising just as it did when it rolled off the line. Its exceptional condition, with a 'very solid' body and 'good original floor pan,' speaks to careful preservation over the decades.

Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the rarity of this vehicle: 'The Beetle is the people's car in every sense, but this one is especially rare. With fewer than 2,000 miles, it's as close as you'll get to stepping back in time. It's not just a classic—it's a time capsule.'

The 1979 model year marked the end of Beetle convertible production, with over 330,000 cabriolets built by Karmann. The last one was completed in January 1980, making this glossy black convertible one of the final expressions of a design that captured hearts worldwide for decades.

The DFW Car & Toy Museum, formerly known as DFW Elite Toy Museum, was founded by Ron Sturgeon in the 1980s. It now occupies a 150,000-square-foot facility at 2550 McMillan Parkway in North Fort Worth, featuring over 200 rare vehicles and 3,000 vintage toys and collectibles. The museum offers free parking and admission, and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Visitors can explore the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com for more information.

Sturgeon's passion for automobiles began in his teenage years when he taught himself to repair Volkswagens, eventually building one of the largest auto salvage operations in the country. His collection has grown to include classic and exotic cars, but this Beetle holds a special place as a testament to the enduring appeal of the 'people's car.'

For enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, this Beetle offers a rare opportunity to witness a piece of automotive history in near-original condition. It is not just a car; it is a time capsule that transports viewers back to an era when driving was about simplicity and joy.