We've gotten used to hearing about the humble VW Beetle as a design icon. Engineered and built for one purpose and one purpose only; to maneuver the folks! Basic, simple and mass produced; it's simplicity and functionality is what made it a design classic. It first hit the roads in 1938 and through time (in response to health and safety legislation and engineering advancement) has adorned many new additions which unfortunately (in my opinion) assassinated the original design.
Unlike other design classics from the same era, like the Marcel Breuer 'Wassily Chair' (1925) or Ludwig Miles van der Rohe 'Barcelona Chair' (1929) which remain unchanged, the beetle's design has suffered from the many alterations and only the early versions can seriously be considered design icons. Like the chairs, the early cars offered more than just practicality as the materials were tactile and engaging.
The pictures are of my friend James's car which he has lovingly restored over many, many years. To me, this car epitomizes how the design icon should be.
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