The Beetle may be one of Volkswagen’s signature models with a history of over 70 years, yet the automaker has decided it is time to say goodbye to it. The last Beetle will roll off the production line coming summer, entering two vintage Beetles at the Mille Miglia which could be the best homage and farewell to classic “round Volkswagen”.
The history of Mille Miglia dates back to 1927. Often dubbed as the “most beautiful race in the world,” it was in hiatus starting from 1957 and resurrected in 1977. For this year around 430 vintage cars are running on the 1,000-mile route started from Brescia to Rome and back from 15 to 18 May.
To be eligible to take part in the events, the entry cars have to demonstrate that they were involved in the Mille Miglia between 1927 and 1957, and with parts all in accordance with the originals. The two participating Beetles this year channel the spirit of “Dapferle”, which was a 1948 Beetle with modified parts driven by Paul-Ernst Strähle in the 1954 Mille Miglia, claiming victory in the 1300cc class and third place in the 1500cc class. The first entry is the Diamond Green Ovali Beetle authentic replica built by Volkswagen Classic, generating 74hp from the rear-mounted engine. The second Reseda Green Beetle has been modified with various parts and assembled according to the original “Dapferle” documents from 1954.
