1979 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible with 1,800 Miles Joins DFW Car & Toy Museum Collection

FORT WORTH, TX – A 1979 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible with just 1,800 miles from new is now part of the Ron Sturgeon Collection at the DFW Car & Toy Museum, providing visitors with an exceptional look at one of the final examples of the iconic Beetle Cabriolet. The car, built by Karmann, the renowned German coachbuilder that crafted open-top Beetles since 1949, represents the end of an era for a production run that saw over 330,000 cabriolets produced. The last Beetle convertible was completed in January 1980, making this glossy black model one of the last expressions of the timeless design.

This particular Beetle is part of the evolved VW 1303 series, known for its MacPherson strut front suspension and curved windshield, which offered improved comfort and stability while retaining the car's charming simplicity. The convertible top folds neatly, inviting open-air cruising just as it did when it rolled off the line. Its exceptional condition includes a “very solid” body and a “good original floor pan,” with ultra-low mileage that makes it a rare opportunity to experience a Beetle Cabriolet almost exactly as it would have been in 1979.

“The Beetle is the people's car in every sense, but this one is especially rare,” said Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum. “With fewer than 2,000 miles, it's as close as you'll get to stepping back in time. It's not just a classic—it's a time capsule.” The car is displayed alongside over 200 rare vehicles and 3,000 vintage toys and collectibles, making the museum a must-see for enthusiasts of all generations.

The DFW Car & Toy Museum, formerly known as DFW Elite Toy Museum, was founded by Ron Sturgeon in the 1980s and was recently relocated to North Fort Worth at 2550 McMillan Parkway. The new facility spans 150,000 square feet and offers free parking and admission, along with secure climate-controlled car storage and event spaces. The museum is dog-friendly and encourages photos, with hours Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information, visit the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.

Ron Sturgeon's passion for automobiles began in his teenage years when he taught himself to repair Volkswagens, eventually leading to a successful career in the automotive industry. His collection, now housed in the museum, reflects decades of dedication to preserving automotive history and sharing it with the public. The 1979 Beetle Convertible is a centerpiece that not only highlights the enduring appeal of the Beetle but also the museum's commitment to showcasing vehicles that have made a significant cultural and economic impact.

For Texas residents and visitors alike, the museum offers a unique opportunity to see this rare piece of automotive history up close, emphasizing the importance of preserving classic cars for future generations.