The Classic 1963 Volkswagen Type 3 Notchback: A Rolling Project Waiting to Shine
Picture this: a vintage car enthusiast’s dream project, birthed from the golden age of automobiles. What we have here is a 1963 Volkswagen Type 3 Notchback, a vehicle that’s seen its fair share of highway adventures and is now patiently awaiting its next chapter. Acquired by the current owner in 2016, this gem is armed with a robust 1,493cc flat-four engine and a four-speed manual transaxle. It’s dressed in a cloak of gray primer, a proud testimony to its recent bout with sandblasting and body repairs. Though the interior is a bit on the minimalistic side at the moment, it comes with assorted spare parts and a California title under the seller’s name, making it ready for a new owner to step in and create a masterpiece.
Body and Soul: The Exterior Condition
The seller has ensured that the car’s outer shell, after a thorough sandblasting treatment, has received some essential TLC. The front end, roof, trunk lid, and rear quarter panels have all been subjected to adept bodywork.
The final product? A disassembled body coated in gray primer, a canvas ready for artistic hands.
The seller advises that there’s still more rust repair and bodywork on the horizon. So, if your soul yearns for the satisfaction of restoring vintage steel to its former glory, this is your calling.
Wheels and Suspension: The Foundation of the Ride
- 15” Fuchs-style wheels
- A mixed set of tires, just waiting for uniformity
- Aftermarket suspension components to make your drives a little less bumpy
Consider it an invitation to delve into the world of VW Eos enthusiasts, who equally cherish performance improvements.
The Interior: A Blank Canvas
Within the shell of this iconic vehicle, you’ll find that the interior has been stripped down. The instrumentation has been removed, leaving the mileage a delightful mystery, much like a classic detective story waiting to unfold.
The cabin, now just a memory of its former self, begs for a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of personalization.
Under the Hood: What Powers This Beauty
Now, let’s talk heart and muscle—because this classic beast isn’t just about looks. Nestled under its hood is a diligent 1,493cc flat-four engine, paired with a four-speed manual transaxle. This combo promises the kind of driving experience that conjures memories of bygone road trips, complete with wind-in-hair moments and the hum of robust machinery.
For those intrigued by the art of manual driving, akin to aficionados of Mazda MX-5, this engine is your siren song.
The Extra Bits: Spare Parts to Fuel Your Restoration
Dotted around the garage or perhaps carefully cataloged in boxes are various spare parts. They hold the potential to transform this car from a gray ghost into a vibrant flashback from the 60s. A selection from the spare parts is showcased in the gallery below, ready to be included in the sale.
Registration Status: Planning Ahead
Currently, the ’63 Volkswagen Type 3 is registered with a Planned Non-Operation status in California. This means it’s waiting patiently (as all good cars do) for someone to take charge, turn the ignition, and breathe new life into its history-laden frame.
So, there you have it: a dialogue between past and present, encased in metal, rubber, and possibility. This rolling project is more than just a car; it’s an adventure waiting to happen. All it needs is a guiding hand to steer it toward its next grand journey.

