1950 | Volkswagen Beetle 1100 Standard (Brezel)

Volkswagen Beetle 1100 Standard “Split Window” (1950) – The Portuguese Treasure with a Soul

There are cars that changed the world – and then there’s the Volkswagen Beetle. And if you happen to find one from 1950, with a “split rear window” and a Portuguese history, you’re no longer talking about a car. You’re talking about rolling heritage.

This Beetle is no ordinary example. It’s a witness of the early post-war years, when mobility was still a privilege and cars had names instead of chassis numbers. Built in Portugal and preserved there for decades, it belongs to a rare species – a Standard model that has almost never survived in such remarkable condition.

Mechanics – Less is more

Under the hood works an air-cooled 1.1-liter flat-four with 25 horsepower. It may not sound like much, but it drives like a mechanical poem. No ABS, no ESP, no nonsense – just you, the steering wheel, and the pure feeling of moving real metal.

The gearbox? A non-synchromesh 4-speed, making every shift a small ritual. Clutch, double-clutch, gear in. For people with feeling in their hands, not for automatic drivers.

The suspension? Soft as a Portuguese pillow fight. Comfortable, charmingly swaying, and with a turning circle that makes any modern parking system look obsolete.

Design – Split window, full heart

The “split window” isn’t just a design detail – it’s a statement. Chrome highlights, slender fenders, semaphore indicators instead of blinkers – this Beetle is design history you can touch.

The interior? Minimalist but soulful. A large Bakelite-style steering wheel, simple yet charming seats, and a speedometer that stops at 120 km/h – as if someone said: “That’s all you’ll ever need.”

Personal Story – Loved by Grandpa

This Beetle wasn’t a barn find or a catalogue restoration project. It was part of our family. My grandfather, a passionate collector and gifted mechanic, personally maintained and lovingly restored it. Every detail speaks of dedication. Every chrome strip shines because he polished it by hand.

This car isn’t a museum piece – it was driven, cared for, and above all, cherished.

Conclusion – A Beetle with Character, History and Style

If you’re looking for an automotive unicorn with more heart than horsepower, you’ve found it. This 1950 Volkswagen Beetle 1100 Standard “Split Window” isn’t just a car. It’s family, history, and a rolling statement.

And if you wonder whether such an old Beetle can still bring joy: turn the key, hear the soft purr of the boxer, and try not to smile. Spoiler: you won’t succeed.