If you stroll through a weekend car show or through faded dealership brochures from the swinging sixties, you’ll notice Volkswagens everywhere — simple, practical shapes that defined an era on city streets and country roads alike. Those models still spark conversations among collectors and drivers who appreciate straightforward engineering and wide availability of parts.
There are 10 1960s Volkswagen Car Models, ranging from 411 to Variant / Squareback (Type 3). I’ve organized each entry with Type code,Production years (yrs),Body styles so you can compare details at a glance — you’ll find below.
How can I verify a model’s Type code and production year?
Check the vehicle’s ID plate (often on the heater channel, door jamb or engine bay) where the Type code and serial numbers are stamped; cross-reference those with factory build records or trusted model guides and online registries to confirm production years, especially since some models had different run dates by market.
Are parts and restoration resources available for these 1960s Volkswagens?
Yes — parts availability varies by model: common cars like Beetles have abundant repro and NOS parts, while rarer models (for example early 411s) rely more on specialist suppliers, salvage finds, and enthusiasts’ clubs; online forums, vintage parts dealers, and dedicated VW restoration shops are good starting points.
1960s Volkswagen Car Models
| Model | Type code | Production years (yrs) | Body styles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beetle | Type 1 | 1938-2003 | sedan; convertible; coupe |
| Transporter (Split-window) | Type 2 | 1950-1967 | microbus; camper; pickup |
| Transporter (Bay-window) | Type 2 | 1967-1979 | microbus; camper; pickup |
| Notchback (Type 3) | Type 3 | 1961-1973 | sedan |
| Fastback (Type 3) | Type 3 | 1961-1973 | sedan; coupe |
| Variant / Squareback (Type 3) | Type 3 | 1961-1973 | wagon |
| Karmann Ghia (Type 14) | Type 14 | 1955-1974 | coupe; convertible |
| Karmann Ghia (Type 34) | Type 34 | 1961-1969 | coupe |
| 411 | Type 4 | 1968-1973 | sedan; coupe |
| Thing (Type 181) | Type 181 | 1968-1983 | convertible |
Images and Descriptions
Beetle
The iconic Volkswagen Beetle (Type 1) was sold worldwide in the 1960s as a compact rear‑engine sedan and convertible. Known for its rounded shape and simple air‑cooled engine, it became one of the best‑selling cars ever and a cultural icon of the era.
Transporter (Split-window)
The Type 2 split‑window Transporter (T1) was VW’s multi‑purpose microbus, camper, and crew carrier widely sold in Europe and North America during the early 1960s. Its split windshield and versatile interior made it a symbol of 1960s counterculture and family travel.
Transporter (Bay-window)
The Type 2 bay‑window (T2) replaced the split screen in 1967 with a single curved windshield and updated suspension. Sold globally in the late 1960s, it continued VW’s microbus/camper tradition and offered improved comfort for families and tourers.
Notchback (Type 3)
The Type 3 Notchback was VW’s mid‑size two‑door sedan sold from the early 1960s, offering more trunk space and a modern profile than the Beetle. Marketed in Europe and North America, it delivered a more refined ride and a larger flat‑four engine.
Fastback (Type 3)
The Type 3 Fastback combined a sportier roofline with the Type 3’s rear‑engine layout, sold in the 1960s as a stylish alternative to the Notchback. It appealed to buyers wanting sleeker looks with practical performance and easier cargo access.
Variant / Squareback (Type 3)
The Type 3 Variant, often called the Squareback, was a 1960s station wagon offering practical cargo space and family transport with rear‑engine packaging. Sold widely in Europe and North America, it was prized for versatility and surprisingly large load capacity.
Karmann Ghia (Type 14)
The Karmann Ghia Type 14 was a hand‑built sporty coupe and convertible blending Volkswagen mechanicals with Italian‑styled coachwork. Sold globally through the 1960s, it offered a stylish, affordable GT alternative that showcased VW’s flair beyond economy cars.
Karmann Ghia (Type 34)
The Type 34 Karmann Ghia, produced from 1961–1969, was a larger, more luxurious coupe built on Type 3 underpinnings and sold in select markets. Nicknamed the “Razor Edge,” it featured distinctive styling and limited production, making it collectible today.
411
The Volkswagen 411 (Type 4) debuted in 1968 as a larger, more upmarket sedan with improved comfort and handling compared with earlier models. Sold in Europe and North America in the late 1960s, it aimed to compete in the midsize executive segment.
Thing (Type 181)
The Type 181 “Thing” was a utilitarian open‑top convertible built from 1968 for military and civilian markets; in the U.S. it became a quirky beach/off‑road vehicle. Based on Beetle mechanicals, it was simple, rugged, and easily adapted for fun or utility use.
