1954 Volkswagen Beetle Deluxe Sedan

Lamborghini Paramus is proud to present our 1954 Volkswagen Beetle De Luxe Sedan.


A competitive racer and award-winning show car, this 1954 Beetle is a purpose-built homage to the Porsche-powered Beetles that competed in period events such as the Mille Miglia. Delivered new in May 1954 by John von Neumanns Competition Motors of Hollywood, California, our Euro-spec De Luxe blends early Volkswagen character with extensive Porsche 356 performance upgrades.


Finished in period-inspired livery reminiscent of the Strahle Dapferle Beetle, it retains semaphores, 7-inch reflector headlights with fluted Bosch lenses, single blade bumpers, twin sun visors, passenger grab handle, and upgraded 1.2-liter engine specification. Factory options included laminated windshield, MPH speedometer, larger brake light reflector, heavy-duty shocks, warning triangle, wiper motor interference suppression, and leatherette upholstery. It is accompanied by its Volkswagen Certificate of Authenticity, original tool kit, jack, spare, racing seat, roof rack, and additional period accessories.


Built as a tribute to 1954 Mille Miglia racers, our Beetle underwent an extensive mechanical transformation using genuine Porsche 356 components between October 2023 and June 2025 by the owner with Dugans Classic Car Werks and Garibaldi Imagineering. Upgrades include 356 Speedster torsion bars and spring plates, 356 brake drums with Carrera studs and spacers, correct 356 wheels with roller bearing front axles, 356 king and link pins, 356 steering box and damper, dual-circuit master cylinder with ATE wheel cylinders, and proper 356 parking brake cables, delivering sharper handling and stronger braking with a competition-focused character.


Power comes from a later dual-port engine from 19731974, bored and stroked with an upgraded camshaft. Under current ownership it received Kadron carburetors with Vintage Speed linkage, Bosch 009 distributor, blue Bosch coil, rebuilt alternator, Gene Berg pulley, custom Sebring-style exhaust, new wiring harness, new starter, and 12-volt conversion, yielding sharp throttle response and abundant torque well beyond stock.


The adjustable front suspension features Koni shocks and a 19mm sway bar, while 356 wheels wear 165SR15 Michelin XZX radials with 2022 date codes. A matching 356 spare with proper bracket and leather hold-down sits up front. Lighting upgrades include blinking semaphores, H4 halogen headlights, and 356-style running lights.


A lifelong California car, it retains original rust-free floors and solid spare wheel well. Glass is largely original Sekurit, and the hood still wears its original crest. Paint presents in driver-quality condition with patina consistent with its competition theme, featuring hand-painted Competition Motors graphics.


Inside, the cabin is restored in period-correct fashion with reupholstered seats and panels, mohair headliner, restored batwing steering wheel, Kafer center grille with 8,000 RPM redline tachometer, VDO temperature gauge, and 356 alloy column clamp. Original dash knobs, ribbed window winders, and trim remain. Safety upgrades include a Halotron fire extinguisher and AGM battery with external Bosch cut-off.


Performance is proven: a 6-minute 30-second run at the Mount Equinox Hillclimb outperformed several Porsche 356A examples. It earned Peoples Choice at the 2024 Flanders VW Show and is widely event-eligible, including VSCCA hill climbs and preservation class competition. With installation of a period-correct Porsche or VW 1300cc or 1500cc engine, it may qualify for Mille Miglia consideration.


Structurally sound, mechanically sorted, and uniquely executed, our Beetle is a rare opportunity to acquire a vintage example equally at home on the show field or charging up a mountain stage. Usable, eligible, and unforgettable.