A Time Capsule on Wheels: Unrestored 1952 VW Pretzel Beetle at fahr(T)raum

The Ferdinand Porsche Worlds of Experience, fahr(T)raum in Mattsee, has been enhanced by an automotive sensation: a 1952 VW Beetle with 25 hp, in its completely original, unrestored condition. Such a vehicle is an absolute rarity among collectors today and offers visitors the unique opportunity to experience authentic automotive history up close. 

Why is the Pretzel Beetle Called a “Pretzel Beetle”?

The classic car owes its charming nickname to its rear window. The two small, oval panes, separated by a central bar, are reminiscent of the shape of a pretzel. However, what is considered an iconic design feature today was not a creative choice at the time, but purely an economic necessity. A single, large, curved pane of glass would have simply been too expensive to produce for the budget-friendly Volkswagen. 

The Birth of a Legend: From Ferdinand Porsche to Global Success 

The story of the VW Beetle begins in 1934. Ferdinand Porsche was commissioned by the Reich Association of the German Automobile Industry to develop an economical car that was affordable for everyone—a “people’s car” or “Volkswagen.” The first pre-production vehicles, then known as the “KdF-Wagen” (Strength through Joy car), were presented in 1938. However, with the start of the Second World War, deliveries to private customers came to a halt. 

After the war ended in 1945, the Volkswagen factory was under British administration. Mass production of the “Type 1” resumed, with the first vehicles being delivered to the occupying forces and the German Post Office. From 1948 onwards, the Beetle was also available to the civilian population. Technically, it was identical to the pre-war models: 

• Central tube frame with a base plate 

• Torsion bar suspension 

• Air-cooled four-cylinder boxer engine 

• Top speed: 100 km/h (62 mph) 

• Curb weight: 750 kg (1,653 lbs) 

The export to the USA, beginning in 1950, became a huge success. There, the nicknames “Beetle” or “Bug” became firmly established. In Germany, the term “Käfer” (Beetle) only caught on from 1961 onwards to distinguish it from the newer VW 1500 Notchback (Type 3). 

The Evolution of the Beetle’s Rear End 

The iconic pretzel window was replaced as early as 1953 by a one-piece oval window, which offered 23% more visibility. From 1957, the Beetle was fitted with an even larger, rectangular rear window. Interestingly, owners of older models could have the new windows retrofitted. Today, the trend is reversed: out of nostalgia, many collectors are converting their Beetles back to the split pretzel window by welding the once-removed central bar back in place using conversion kits. 

By the time production ceased on July 30, 2003, a total of 21.529.464 VW Beetles had been built, making it one of the best-selling cars in the world. 

Experience Automotive History Up Close at fahr(T)raum 

At fahr(T)raum in Mattsee, you can now admire the untarnished charm of an unrestored 1952 Pretzel Beetle. Embark on a journey back in time and experience a piece of automotive history that has defined generations. In addition to this highlight, fahr(T)raum regularly hosts changing special exhibitions and events dedicated to fascinating aspects of automotive history. Visit us at the Ferdinand Porsche Worlds of Experience and discover milestones of technical history. 

 

 

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