Classic Volkswagen lines from the early 1960s still turn heads, whether parked at a weekend meet or rolling down a coastal highway. The 1962 models reflect simple, durable engineering that made the brand popular worldwide and easy to understand for owners and restorers alike.
There are 9 1962 Volkswagen Car Models, ranging from Beetle Convertible to Volkswagen Beetle (Beetle Convertible,Volkswagen Beetle). For each entry you’ll find below the key fields organized as Type,Body style,Engine (cc) so you can quickly compare variants and specifications before you look deeper into any model.
How much variety is there in engines and body styles among the 1962 Volkswagen models?
The lineup is compact but diverse: mostly air-cooled flat-four engines with different displacements and tune levels, and body styles that include sedans, convertibles, panel vans and coupes. The Type,Body style,Engine (cc) columns show those differences at a glance so you can spot which models share powertrains or unique body configurations.
What should I check to identify or authenticate a 1962 Volkswagen model in person?
Look for stamped numbers on the chassis and engine, correct body trim and interior details for the stated Type, and matching features like hood shape or taillight design; cross-reference those with reputable registries or factory literature and use the Engine (cc) number as a key verification point.
1962 Volkswagen Car Models
| Model | Type | Body style | Engine (cc) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Beetle | Type 1 | Two-door sedan | 1,192 |
| Beetle Convertible | Type 1 | Two-door convertible (Karmann) | 1,192 |
| Karmann Ghia (Type 14) Coupe | Type 14 | Two-door coupe | 1,192 |
| Karmann Ghia (Type 14) Convertible | Type 14 | Two-door convertible | 1,192 |
| VW Type 3 Notchback (1500) | Type 3 | Two-door saloon (Notchback) | 1,500 |
| VW Type 3 Fastback (1500) | Type 3 | Two-door fastback coupe | 1,500 |
| VW Type 3 Variant / Squareback | Type 3 | Five-door estate / station wagon | 1,500 |
| Karmann Ghia Type 34 | Type 34 | Two-door coupe | 1,500 |
| VW Type 2 Microbus (passenger Kombi) | Type 2 | Passenger microbus / station wagon | 1,192 |
Images and Descriptions
Volkswagen Beetle
The classic Beetle was VW’s global bestseller in 1962, an air-cooled, rear-engined two-door sedan with a 1,192 cc flat-four. Built in Germany for worldwide export, it offered small market variations and remains the archetypal VW of the era.
Beetle Convertible
Karmann-built Beetle convertible was an official factory-bodied open-top Type 1 sharing the 1,192 cc engine. Produced in lower numbers than the coupe, it was popular in North America and Europe and is prized by collectors for its rarity.
Karmann Ghia (Type 14) Coupe
The Type 14 Karmann Ghia paired Beetle mechanicals (1,192 cc) with Italian-styled coachwork by Ghia and finishing by Karmann. Sold worldwide in 1962, it was a stylish, slightly upmarket alternative to the Beetle with distinctive looks.
Karmann Ghia (Type 14) Convertible
The Type 14 cabriolet was a rarer open-top Karmann Ghia variant using the 1,192 cc engine. Built in limited numbers by Karmann for select markets, it combined Karmann Ghia styling with convertible appeal and collector interest.
VW Type 3 Notchback (1500)
The Type 3 Notchback (marketed as the 1500) featured a rear-mounted 1,500 cc engine and more luggage space than the Beetle. Introduced in 1961 and sold through 1962, it targeted buyers wanting modern styling and improved practicality.
VW Type 3 Fastback (1500)
The Type 3 Fastback used the 1,500 cc flat-four and offered a sloping roofline for a sportier profile. In 1962 it appealed to buyers seeking sleeker styling with the Type 3’s improved cargo and passenger space versus the Beetle.
VW Type 3 Variant / Squareback
Known as the Variant or Squareback, the Type 3 estate provided practical five-door wagon utility with the 1,500 cc rear engine. Sold in Europe and North America in 1962, it was valued for cargo capacity and everyday versatility.
Karmann Ghia Type 34
The Type 34 Karmann Ghia (‘Razor Edge’) used the Type 3’s 1,500 cc engine and distinctive coachbuilt styling by Ghia and Karmann. Produced in limited numbers and sold selectively in 1962, it’s rarer and more collectible than the Type 14.
VW Type 2 Microbus (passenger Kombi)
The Type 2 T1 Microbus offered passenger Kombi/station-wagon configurations in 1962, powered by a 1,192 cc air-cooled engine. Though van-derived, factory passenger models were widely exported and popular as family transport and early camper bases.
