An exceptionally rare 1953 Volkswagen Beetle, known as the first true "oval window" model, is now on display at the DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas. This grey Beetle represents the lowest production year of its kind and is considered a highly collectible piece of automotive history.
The 1953 Beetle served as a bridge between the earlier split-window models and the smoother designs that followed. Produced for only a few months, early versions from this year, often called "Zwitters," shared features with previous generations, making them unique among collectors. This particular example is a true oval, distinguished by its clean oval-shaped rear window and period-correct mechanical details.
Under the hood, the Beetle is powered by a 1131cc 25-horsepower flat-four engine, equipped with all the correct components for the era: a Solex 1-barrel carburetor, strap-over air filter, big-nut generator, 6-volt system, round voltage regulator, and flat-top distributor. Power is delivered through a split-case four-speed transaxle, true to original factory specification.
Finished in a dignified shade of grey, the car is described as one of the finest surviving examples of the 1953 oval Beetle. Not only does it run and drive smoothly, but it also tells a compelling story of innovation and global rebirth just a few short years after World War II.
"The 1953 oval window Beetle is a landmark car," said Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum. "Its rarity, mechanical integrity, and clean design make it a standout—even in a museum full of iconic cars. It's a jewel for anyone who appreciates Volkswagen history."
The 1953 Volkswagen Beetle is on display among more than 200 rare automobiles and 3,000 vintage toys and pop culture artifacts at the DFW Car & Toy Museum. The museum, formerly known as DFW Elite Toy Museum, was founded by Ron Sturgeon in the 1980s and recently relocated to North Fort Worth at 2550 McMillan Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76137. The new facility is 150,000 square feet with free parking and admission, offering an entertaining visit for car and toy enthusiasts alike.
For more information about the museum and its collection, visit dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
