VW Bids Farewell To The Beetle By Racing It In The Mille Miglia

Volkswagen has entered two classic Beetles in the 2019 Mille Miglia. “The most beautiful race”, as it’s often regarded to, has been chosen by the automaker to send off the iconic car for good, as the last one will roll off the assembly lines this summer.

The auto brand’s involvement in the Mille Miglia dates back to the 1950s, when the Beetles that competed made a name for themselves by beating more powerful rivals.

‘Dapferle’, a 1948 Beetle modified with parts sourced from a Porsche 356, was driven by Paul-Ernst Strahle in 1954 to victory in the 1,300cc class. He also obtained the bronze medal in the 1,500cc class.

Also Watch: A VW Beetle Will Always Be The Perfect Daily Classic

The historic ‘Dapferle’ has been replicated for the 2019 edition. The 1951 Pretzel Beetle has a Roseda Green look, uses different Porsche parts and a 60 PS (59 hp / 44 kW) engine. The other one is a 1956 Ovali Beetle authentic replica, built by Volkswagen Classic that’s powered by a rear-mounted Porsche engine making 75 PS (74 hp / 55 kW).

In order to be eligible to take part in the historic event, all cars need to demonstrate that they were involved in the Mille Miglia between 1927 and 1957. They also need to have parts in accordance with the originals.

Now, while the Beetle is getting axed, you can still get one. |Right now, in the U.S. it undercuts the Golf Mk7 by nearly $1,000, with an MSRP of $20,895. As for the Beetle Final Edition, which is the swansong of the iconic model, it starts from $23,045 and is limited to our market.