Ray Black's 1952 Beetle

This car was found in Austria in 1986 and brought back to Australia to complete its restoration and remove the under-bodt sealer which Nothern Europeans use to deter the ravages of snow, mud and salt Apart from the sourcing of a few missing parts, such as the "Pope's Nose" number plate light, only a clean up was required to bring the car to this standard. The car still has its original paint!

The bat-wing steering wheel, Rosenthal bud vase and white wall tyres on 16 inch wheels give it an elegant style.

The unsuccessful factory "rheumatism flaps" on the front quarter panels make the car a little unusual as splits go. They are also an abject failure as "air conditioning" in the 100F degree heat here in Australia.

The skinny cross-ply Semperit tyres give the car that correct 1952 look and are really exciting during 20mph cornering.