Rare 1951 VW Beetle Cabriolet Now on Display at DFW Museum

The Ron Sturgeon Collection at the DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, now showcases a remarkably rare piece of automotive history: a 1951 Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet. Built on July 17, 1951, by the legendary coachbuilder Karmann in Osnabrück, this early Type 15 Cabriolet is one of the most coveted milestones in the evolution of the iconic Beetle. The car's story begins with the pre-war vision of a 'people's car,' but it was in the post-war era that the Beetle truly flourished, offering both practicality and open-air luxury. Karmann's cabriolet, prototyped in 1949, stood out with its true four-passenger layout, rear legroom, and folding soft top, leading Volkswagen to officially approve production. This particular example is a first-series Type 15 A, produced between 1949 and 1952, featuring the early split-rear window design and pre-1953 detailing. With only 165 known survivors worldwide, its rarity is matched by its historical significance.

Ron Sturgeon, founder of the museum, expressed his admiration: 'This is one of those cars that stops collectors in their tracks. The 1951 Karmann Cabriolet is more than just a Beetle—it's a symbol of rebirth, optimism, and craftsmanship at a time when the world needed it most.' Visitors can view this stunning vehicle alongside over 200 classic cars and 3,000 vintage toys and collectibles at the museum's new 150,000-square-foot facility. The museum, formerly known as DFW Elite Toy Museum, has relocated to North Fort Worth and offers free admission and parking, with hours Tuesday through Saturday. For more details, visit the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com. The museum's legacy as a go-to resource for toy and car enthusiasts is maintained through its original site, DFW Elite Toy Museum, which remains active.