Volkswagen Beetle or Rolls-Royce?

If there is a car that is recognized worldwide, that car is the Volkswagen Beetle. Produced between 1938 and 2003, the Beetle won hearts around the planet as a sturdy, simple and affordable vehicle. On the other hand, the Rolls-Royce is synonymous with extreme luxury and exclusivity, far from the idea of accessibility. But imagine uniting these two universes: a Beetle transformed into a “Rolls-Royce”. It seems curiously unlikely, doesn't it?

The idea of transforming the friendly Beetle into a copy of a Rolls-Royce is not new. In the 1960s, in United States, modification kits were popular, allowing Beetle owners to have something that resembled the iconic Phantom VI, manufactured between 1968 and 1990. Today, a copy of this transformation is for sale at Facebook Marketplace Italy, dated 1972 and with only 50 thousand kilometers driven.

How much does this curiosity cost?

If you think this Phantom Beetle It's a bargain, you're partly right. The model is for sale for 9,500 euros, which is equivalent to about R$ 51.292 at the current exchange rate. For comparison purposes, this is R$ 2.105 cheaper than the Fiat Topolino, an electric quadricycle that should arrive in Brazil soon in the version of Citroën Ami.

Although it is more affordable than an original Rolls-Royce, this modified Beetle is undoubtedly a collector's item, not just an everyday car.

What changes in the Beetle's appearance?

The transformation of the Beetle into a “Rolls-Royce” goes far beyond superficial details. The simple headlights gave rise to a set double, remembering the style of Volkswagen TL. But the big change is in the hood, which lost the characteristic curved shape of the Beetle and began to display square lines. To complete the luxurious look, the model gained the iconic “Spirit of Ecstasy” on the tip of the hood, something that is a trademark of original Rolls-Royce.

The painting in two tones is another detail that reinforces the inspiration from luxury cars. The roof has been finished in a way that imitates the convertible top of the Rolls-Royce, and the sides display details that simulate wood, a typical design element of British luxury vehicles.

“The Elegant Beetle” kits

In the United States, the kits that transformed Beetles into “Rolls-Royces” were known as “The Elegant Beetle” (or Elegant Beetle). They gained popularity in the 1970s, to the point that the company A&A Fiberglass, which produced these kits, be sued by itself Rolls-Royce in 1976. The British brand won the legal dispute, reinforcing its exclusivity.

Still, during its period of operation, the A&A Fiberglass managed to attract a number of enthusiasts. These kits allowed Beetle owners to have a car that, at least at first glance, could be mistaken for a Rolls-Royce — all without spending a fortune.

The Rolls-Royce Beetle in Brazil

The fever for transformed Beetles has also reached Brazil. During the 1960s and 1970s, some Brazilian owners embraced the idea. However, here, the modifications tended to be simpler, limited to replacing the hood. Even so, the desire to have a car with a “Rolls-Royce look” was a reflection of the Beetle’s timeless charm and the dream of showing off a little more sophistication.

Why does the Beetle lend itself to so many transformations?

The Beetle is known for mechanical simplicity and by design versatile, which makes it one of the most customized cars in the world. From transformations for off-road competitions to models that refer to luxury cars, the Beetle has always been a joker for creative projects. Not to mention the low maintenance cost, which attracts enthusiasts who like to modify their vehicles without spending a lot.

Is it worth buying?

If you are a collector passionate about automotive stories or if you just like quirky cars, this Rolls-Royce Beetle could be an interesting acquisition. On the other hand, it's important to remember that, despite its curious appearance, it's still a Beetle at its core: air-cooled rear engine, modest performance and a simple interior.

As an investment, this type of car can be a risky bet, as the modified vehicle market is highly niche. However, if the goal is to attract attention at car shows or on social media, it will certainly do the job.

Conclusion

The Beetle transformed into a Rolls-Royce is more than just a car: it's a testimony of human creativity and the adaptability of a classic like the Volkswagen Beetle. In 2025, when automotive technology and design are more advanced than ever, looking back at these transformations is like revisiting a time when the automobile was also a form of personal expression.

If you're interested in exploring this curious piece of automotive history, be prepared to shell out around R$ 51.292 and stand out with a car that mixes two opposing universes: the simplicity of beetle and Rolls-Royce luxury. After all, in the world of cars, even the most unlikely things can come to life with a touch of creativity.