Chassis: 1352234186
Restored by Harbor Auto Restoration in 1993
Excellent Example of the Rare “La Grande Bug” Edition
Finished in the Desirable Color of Topaz Metallic
Fitted with Factory Sunroof and Air-Conditioning
Awarded the AACA First National Senior Prize in 2010
1,585 CC Air-Cooled Flat 4-Cylinder Engine
Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection
48 BHP at 4,200 RPM
4-Speed Manual Transaxle
4-Wheel Drum Brakes
Front Coil-Spring Suspension with MacPherson Struts
Rear Semi-Trailing Arm Suspension with Torsion Bars
Introduced in 1975, the “La Grande Bug” was a limited-edition Volkswagen Super Beetle which, like previous versions, benefited from decades of development in performance, comfort, and reliability. In addition to having a slightly wider and longer body, which provided more room for passengers and storage, Super Beetles featured an upgraded front suspension with MacPherson struts and rack and pinion steering for improved handling and a tighter turning radius. Incorporating electronic fuel injection, the La Grande Bug also exhibited greater acceleration and better fuel economy.
As a special-edition vehicle, the La Grande Bug also offered several features not found on other Beetles, including three metallic paint options, including Topaz, which can be seen on this example. Each color came with a special interior that combined a grained leatherette upholstery with corduroy insets and rosewood trim. A sliding sunroof and air-conditioning were also standard equipment.
This Super Beetle was first registered by Norman Kassoff of Miami, Florida, in 1975. After nearly two decades of ownership, Mr. Kassoff had the Beetle restored to concours condition in 1993 by Harbor Auto Restoration, according to an appraisal on file. Following completion, the Bug reportedly received top honors at significant marque events, including Best of Show at the 2001 Miami International Volkswagen Show, and in 2010, it earned an AACA First National Senior Prize.
