2024 Meyers Manx Old Red Remastered Kit
If there is one car that could define the 1960s, it was the original Volkswagen Beetle. The simple, air-cooled engine propelled these little cars around the world, making car ownership easy and affordable. Odd-looking yet charming, the Bug turned into a surprising off-road icon as a base for various builds, from baja runners to the original beach buggies, epitomized by the Meyers Manx. Over 60 years later, Meyers is resurrecting the iconic Beetle-based kit, preserving its legacy with modern enhancements.
Old Red, The Original
The name, Old Red, derives from Bruce Meyers, who named his own buggy from the first twelve produced. Initially priced at $985 (equivalent to around $10,110 today), the original Manxes held a considerable value, and many were seen as somewhat of a financial gamble. Kit owners needed to provide their own Beetle components to make it operational. Following that, the Manx II offered an affordable option with just the body shell, starting at $499, transitioning the market to more budget-friendly entry points for fans of the brand.
New Old Red, Same Old Feels
The conversation regarding pricing and inflation is crucial. While the new kit is listed at $14,500, many may be taken aback by how the price of kits has evolved. It’s essential to understand that the prior kits weren’t exactly inexpensive either. An exciting feature of the updated Old Red kit is the newly designed tilting seats, allowing for increased passenger comfort while maintaining the vintage Volkswagen Type 1 style.
You Still Need A Donor
Similar to its predecessor, the new kit continues to require a Type 1 Beetle as a donor. In the 1960s, accessing these vehicles was comparatively easier, as they were plentiful. A 1963 Beetle’s price ranged from $1,710—approximately $17,551 when adjusted for inflation—to about $4,070 (around $41,773 today). Despite these figures sounding a bit high, the harmony of pricing between a Beetle and the original Manx II kit made ownership feasible.
Today, prices for vintage Type 1 Beetles have significantly climbed. Various models, especially those from 1973 and beyond, are less sought after. Individuals seeking a reliable Type 1 today will likely contend with prices around $5,000 or higher for vehicles that are barely operational. Consequently, finding a drivable early Beetle can range approximately to $9,000 or more, with restored models skyrocketing in value.
In conclusion, assembling a new Meyers Manx will be a more costly endeavor now than in its formative years, even when considering inflation. Built off a freshly acquired Beetle, total costs could be similar to entry-level mid-size pickup trucks today, such as the popular 2024 Chevrolet Colorado.
Additionally, it’s important to note that the 2024 Meyers Manx Old Red Kit has a limited production run of only 24 units. Therefore, even if you are financially ready, securing one could be challenging. The silver lining is that a remastered version of the classic Manx II is still available for under $7,000, although it still requires the owner to source a 1963-and-up Beetle as a donor.
