Apal Classic Cars for Sale

History of Apal

Apal is a niche automobile manufacturer from Belgium, best known for its imaginative use of fiberglass bodies and Volkswagen Beetle mechanicals. Founded in the post-war era, Apal focused on producing lightweight sports cars and buggies for enthusiasts looking for an alternative to mass-produced classics. Their ability to transform humble VW platforms into charismatic road-ready cars enabled Apal to carve out a loyal following among collectors in Belgium and beyond.

Model History

Over the decades, Apal developed several notable models. The Apal Buggy, built on VW Beetle chassis, epitomises the fun and freedom of 1970s motoring, intended as a street car rather than an off-road sand buggy. Another striking offering, the Apal Speedster, pays homage to the Porsche 356, delivering vintage looks with user-friendly Volkswagen technology. Small numbers were produced, giving each car a degree of exclusivity. The Corsa and Horizon models, though rarer, showcase Apal’s continued innovation in sports car design. Today, with Speedster and Buggy models representing around 66% and 24% of listings respectively, these cars dominate supply and demand within the Apal lineup.

Highlights and Unique Features

The Apal Buggy stands out through its use of an original Volkswagen chassis (notably 1976 examples), concours-level restorations, and unique details such as custom vinyl softtops. Most buggies come with full documentation and the possibility of an official conformity certificate. The Speedster, meanwhile, features high-end touches like leather-trimmed interiors, toneau covers, and period-correct split hoods. Unlike many kit cars, factory-built Apal vehicles are fully road-legal and can be registered as series-production classics. Attention to paint, wheels (such as new Mangels), and interior finishes (leather, velour, or artificial leather) reflect the brand’s craftsmanship.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Some Apal Buggies have been specifically restored for museum display or concours use, such as examples retained by VW Classics in Wolfsburg and showcased in the Zeithaus collection. These represent the peak of Apal quality and historical value. Every Speedster is essentially a special edition due to its hand-built nature and low production numbers, particularly those with unique colour schemes, luxury interiors, or rare matching documentation.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No information on common weak spots or maintenance issues is available in the provided data. Based on component origins, standard Volkswagen Beetle mechanicals make parts and servicing straightforward for most Apal models.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Paired with the lightweight Apal body, VW’s traditional 1600cc atmospheric engine delivers lively performance and dynamic handling, particularly in Speedster and Buggy configurations. The manual gearboxes are praised for their reliability, and upgrades like dual Weber carburettors further enhance responsiveness. The focus is typically on street usability and engaging everyday driving rather than outright speed. Handling benefits from the rigid yet light bodywork and low centre of gravity. - Apal Speedster: Replica of Porsche 356, known for its refined interior, dual-carb 1600cc engine, and high-quality build.

• Apal Buggy: VW-based fun machine with unique vinyl top, often restored to concours standards.
• Apal Corsa & Horizon: Rarer sports coupés, each offering a taste of Belgian small-series manufacturing and individualistic styling.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Apal aesthetic is strongly influenced by contemporary sports and leisure culture. Interiors may feature custom re-trimmed leather or velour, often in striking colours such as cream, while special-order carpets and split tonneau covers reflect attention to detail. Externally, features like two-part soft tops, special paint (including wraps for protection), classic wheels, and signature body lines distinguish each Apal model. Factory options and owner upgrades contribute to the notable variety among surviving examples. Accessories like tailored hoods, period-accurate dials, and removable door panels also highlight the brand’s blend of practicality and customisation.

Other Features

Some Apal models are offered with a conformity certificate for registration as a series vehicle. Complete documentation is often available, and vehicles may be configured either for regular classic use or added to private collections.

Summary

Apal stands as a testament to Belgian small-series automotive engineering, known for quality restorations, creative use of VW technology, and unique design. From the roadster-style Speedster to the characterful Buggy and rare coupés, each car promises individuality. With strong supply and demand for the Speedster and Buggy, Apal’s classics remain sought-after choices for enthusiasts who value originality, craftsmanship, and a distinctive take on classic motoring.