Post-war Europe saw Volkswagen refining a compact lineup that balanced economy with everyday utility, and 1957 is a tidy snapshot of that era — from solo city cars to people- and cargo-haulers. These models were practical workhorses that also set the template for later VW designs.
There are 8 1957 Volkswagen Car Models, ranging from Beetle to Transporter (Microbus/Kombi). For each entry you’ll find below the information organized as Type number,Body style(s),Key specs (cc,hp) so you can quickly compare chassis IDs, body variants and engine figures, and you’ll find below.
How can I tell a 1957 Volkswagen model apart from other years?
Look for period-specific cues and factory plates: the Type number stamped on the chassis or plate, body details (window shape, trim, bumpers) and the engine displacement/hp. Cross-check those marks against production references or club guides to confirm year and model.
Where are the best sources for accurate Type numbers and engine specs?
Official factory data sheets, marque club archives, period sales brochures, and VIN/flat-plate records are the most reliable; many clubs and registries publish transcriptions that match Type number,Body style(s),Key specs (cc,hp) so you can verify what each 1957 entry represents.
1957 Volkswagen Car Models
| Model | Type number | Body style(s) | Key specs (cc | hp) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beetle | Type 1 | two-door sedan, sunroof | 1,192 cc | 36 hp |
| Beetle Cabriolet | Type 1 | convertible (factory Karmann) | 1,192 cc | 36 hp |
| Karmann Ghia | Type 14 | coupe | 1,192 cc | 36 hp |
| Karmann Ghia Convertible | Type 14 | convertible | 1,192 cc | 36 hp |
| Transporter (Microbus/Kombi) | Type 2 | microbus (Kombi), passenger van | 1,192 cc | 30 hp |
| Samba (Deluxe Bus) | Type 2 | deluxe multi-window microbus (Samba) | 1,192 cc | 30 hp |
| Panel Van | Type 2 | panel van (cargo) | 1,192 cc | 30 hp |
| Pickup | Type 2 | single-cab pickup, double-cab pickup (crew) | 1,192 cc | 30 hp |
Images and Descriptions
Beetle
Compact rear‑engine Volkswagen sold worldwide from Wolfsburg; 1957 Beetles used the 1,192 cc flat‑four with modest trim and export-option changes. ID by its rounded teardrop silhouette, rear engine lid, small taillights and classic chrome bumpers.
Beetle Cabriolet
Factory Karmann‑built soft‑top based on the Type 1, offered by Volkswagen in 1957 for export and European markets. Recognize it by the folding cloth roof, reinforced sills and Beetle proportions; same 1,192 cc engine as the sedan.
Karmann Ghia
Italian-styled, German-built sporty coupe with body by Ghia and final assembly by Karmann; sold widely in Europe and the U.S. in 1957. Notable for low, flowing lines, chrome trim and shared Beetle running gear for easy ID.
Karmann Ghia Convertible
Low-volume Type 14 convertible variant available through Karmann and VW dealers in some markets in 1957; shares the Karmann Ghia’s styling with a folding top. ID by its open‑top profile, distinct nose and VW mechanicals.
Transporter (Microbus/Kombi)
Split‑windshield Type 2 passenger van produced in 1957 and exported globally; known for boxy, utilitarian body and rear air‑cooled engine. Identify 1957 models by the split front window, flat face and simple steel wheels.
Samba (Deluxe Bus)
Factory deluxe Type 2 produced for export markets in 1957 with many roof windows and optional sunroof panels. Recognize a Samba by its extensive roof glazing, extra chrome and upscale interior compared with standard Kombi.
Panel Van
Closed-cargo Type 2 offered in 1957 for commercial markets; same rear‑airbox chassis but with sealed cargo bodywork. ID by solid side panels, rear cargo doors and utilitarian fittings aimed at delivery and trade customers.
Pickup
Light-duty Type 2 trucks sold in 1957 with open cargo beds (single- or double-cab). Identify by the exposed bed and truck chassis, split front windshield and typical VW rear‑engine layout; popular for small commercial use.
