1968 Volkswagen Type 3 Squareback

While the Beetle was lighting up the sales charts in the 1960s, Volkswagen had a whole other range of products that got a bit overshadowed by that post-war wonder. One of my favorites is the Type 3 Squareback. Two door estate vehicles have seemed to peter out in recent years, one of the few holdouts still hanging around being the MINI Clubman. But even that car has a third door on one side to assist with rear seat access.

Volkswagen developed the Type 3 to give buyers of the marque a larger choice before they decided to skip the brand for another manufacturer. These cars still carried VW’s famous rear engine layout and came in three body styles, a two-door sedan known as the Notchback, the 2-door Fastback and 2-door Squareback that we see here. Only the Fastback and Squareback were sold in the US, but many Notchbacks have made their way here in previous years. This Squareback for sale in Washington has 74,000 miles and was repainted in its original color seven years ago.

Year: 1968
Model: Type 3 Squareback
Engine: 1.6 liter flat-4
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: 74,010 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1968 Volkswagen Type 3 Squareback on eBay

This is an excellent example. This is a 2-owner car. 74,000 actual miles. Purchased new @ Riverside Motors, Longview, WA. Engine gone through by Auth. VW Mechanic(Dealer). this car was painted in 2006. It is the original color and is NOT clear-coated nor cut & buffed. It looks as original paint did! No rust anywhere. Never wrecked. Bumpers are original/never been re-plated, if re-plated the car would be a #10. Original fuel injection–runs as new. New headliner, OE style seat covers, carpet, etc. Chrome wheels & 165×15 Michelin XZX tires. The runs, drives, & looks new. Not over-restored or accessorized, just a great example. Call with questions if needed. 360-430-0143. Will help arrange shipping. Full payment required within 3 days of auction close.

If air-cooled Volkswagens appeal to you but the Beetle is a bit too proletariat for your tastes, these Type 3s make a great argument for joining that club. This car looks especially tidy with the chrome rims and seemingly unmarred carpeting inside. The front cabin is quite a departure from any interior you would see today with multiple airbags and higher up sight lines. The slim dashboard and bright colors lend a pleasant, airy touch. For a good Squareback like this that has been mildly refreshed, I’d suspect the reserve is set somewhere around $7,000 to $9,000. That gives you a bit more space than a Bug without the cost that comes with a T2 Transporter of the era.

-Paul