Volkswagen Super Beetle Paint Info
The Color Breakdown
Between 1971 and 1979, the Volkswagen Super Beetle didn't just join the traffic; it brightened it up. Volkswagen recorded 41 distinct colors for this era, and they certainly weren't shy. They gave us everything from the punchy Senegal Red and the electric Miami Blue to the "you-can't-miss-me" Cliff Green. Whether your Beetle is a classic Black or a groovy Texas Yellow, it's clear the designers at Wolfsburg really went for it. They treated the car like a canvas for the 1970s, and honestly, we're all better for it.
What to Watch For
Finding your paint code on a Super Beetle is a bit of a scavenger hunt. Check the spare tire well first-look for a white paper sticker or a metal plate on the front apron near the hood latch. If it's not there, peek at the driver's side strut tower inside the trunk. These codes usually start with the letter "L" (like L30A or L63K).
In terms of wear, these cars are known for "sun-loving" paint. Because many were finished in single-stage paint, colors like Phoenix Red or Bright Orange tend to get a little thirsty and "chalky" over time. You'll also want to keep an eye on the front apron and the leading edges of those iconic curved fenders; they're absolute magnets for stone chips. If you see a little spot of grey or metal peeking through, it's time to step in before the elements do.
Driveway Repair Tip
When you're using your touch-up bottle, remember that vintage VW colors have a lot of personality. Since your car has likely spent a few decades in the sun, the original color and your new paint might have a slight "generation gap." This requires patience.
Instead of trying to fill a chip with one big glob, use the "less is more" approach. Dab a tiny amount of paint into the center of the chip and let it flow to the edges. If it's a metallic shade like Marathon Blue, give that bottle an extra-long shake-at least two full minutes-to make sure all those tiny metallic flakes are awake and ready to shine. Build the color up in thin layers, and you'll have those fenders looking factory-fresh without ever leaving your driveway.