An exceptionally rare piece of automotive history is now on display at the DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas. The 1953 Volkswagen Beetle, part of the Ron Sturgeon Collection, stands out as the first true "oval window" model and the lowest production year of its kind. This grey Beetle represents a transitional and highly collectible moment in the evolution of the world's most iconic car.
Produced for just a few months, the 1953 Beetle bridged the gap between the early split-window models and the smoother, more modern shapes that followed. Early versions from this year—often called "Zwitters"—shared mechanical and cosmetic features with earlier generations, making them unique among collectors. This example is a true oval, distinguished by its clean oval-shaped rear window and its period-correct mechanical details.
Powered by a 1131cc 25-horsepower flat-four engine, this Beetle pairs classic performance with factory accuracy. The engine is dressed 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 remains beautifully preserved and 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."
This 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, located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in North Fort Worth, offers free parking and admission. For more information, visit the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
