VW Beetle "50th Anniversary Edition"
VW Beetle "50th Anniversary Edition"
The 1999 VW New Beetle – often referred to simply as the "Beetle" internally – is considered a modern reinterpretation of the legendary Volkswagen Beetle. With its retro design, intentionally reminiscent of the VW Type 1, Volkswagen has been able to combine tradition and modernity in a unique way.
The special edition presented here, "50th Anniversary Edition", also has a special historical value: it was presented in 1998 by Volkswagen AG to André Losch, on the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of the import contract between Volkswagen and Luxembourg.
Origin and design concept
1. Du concept-car à la production en série
The idea for the New Beetle was born with the VW Concept One study, presented in 1994 at the Detroit Motor Show, where it aroused great interest.
Its design took up the rounded and sympathetic shapes of the classic Beetle, but in a modern and emotional interpretation.
The positive reception quickly led to the decision to start series production.
2. Production and commercial launch
Start of production: 1997, at the Volkswagen plant in Puebla (Mexico).
European launch: from 1999, especially in Germany.
Target audience: young buyers, retro enthusiasts and enthusiasts looking for a car with an authentic character and a lot of history.
Technical basis
Modern technology under a retro body
• Platform: VW Golf IV, guaranteeing high reliability and a modern safety concept.
• Mechanical architecture:
- Front Engine, Front Wheel Drive
- Independent front and rear suspension for added comfort
This technical basis made the New Beetle much more suitable for everyday use than its air-cooled rear-engine ancestor.
Engines and transmission
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Petrol engines
• 1.4 liters – 75 hp
• 1.6 liter – 101 hp
• 2.0 liters – 115 hp
• 1.8-litre Turbo – 150 hp (for sporty versions such as the Turbo S) -
Diesel engines (TDI)
• 1.9 liter TDI – 90 hp
• 1.9 liter TDI – 110 hp -
Gearboxes
• 5-speed manual gearbox
• 4-speed automatic transmission
• Later: 6-speed gearbox for more powerful versions
Equipment, interior and special features
1. Retro meets modernity
• Iconic rounded design, domed fenders and a highly advanced roof.
• Unique element: the small flower vase on the dashboard, a charming nod to the accessories of the old Beetles.
2. Special Editions & Variants
• Dune Edition: Rugged off-road-inspired styling.
• Cabriolet (from 2002): strong aesthetic resemblance to the classic convertible Beetle.
History of the model and evolution
Restyling 2005 | Production period & volumes |
Restyling 2005 • New headlights | Production period & volumes • Production of the New Beetle: 1997–2010 |
The New Beetle was later replaced by the VW Beetle (A5), with a sportier design and lower lines, continuing the retro theme in a more modern way.
Importance today
- The New Beetle is now considered an icon of retro design from the late 1990s and early 2000s.
- Special models, well-preserved first series and convertible versions are particularly sought after.
- Thanks to the Golf IV's technology, it remains reliable, easy to maintain and durable.
The 50th Anniversary Edition – A one-of-a-kind example
The Beetle presented here is a special edition, presented in 1998 by Volkswagen AG to André Losch, in recognition of 50 years of collaboration and import history between Volkswagen and Luxembourg.
This context gives the vehicle not only an aesthetic value, but also an exceptional historical value.
Contact & Opening Hours
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Losch Collection GRIDX
4-6 Rue des Trois Cantons
L-3980 Wickrange -
Contact
Phone: +352 56 79 32 8937
Email: Collection-Losch-UCBL@losch.lu -
Sales
Monday to Saturday: 9:00 – 12:00 & 13:00 – 18:00
Sunday: Closed