Karmann had an extensive and close relationship with Volkswagen, having first been contracted to work on the brand as early as 1949.

Soon proving themselves to match the finesse and build quality of VW, Karmann became synonymous with quality open-top conversions.

Aside from chopping the roof off and fitting a high-quality canvas roof, Karmann expertly strengthened the car, by adding members under each sill and across the passenger compartment as well as reinforcing the door apertures.

Based on the final evolution of the VW Beetle, the 1303S, it was known as the "Super Beetle" due to its more modern brake, steering, suspension set-up, an upgraded cabin and more powerful 1.6-litre engine.

The Karmann Beetle Convertible has always also carried a premium over its tintop sibling and the convertibles ongoing popularity reflects its desirability today.

Created during an era when accessible and cheap-to-run 4-seater convertibles were far and few between, the Karmann Beetle virtually corne...