It seems that nearly everyone over thirty-something has owned and loved one. I cannot count the number of times a friendly stranger has told me, “I used to drive one. I never should have sold it.” I've heard it from mail-men, neighbors, clerks in gas stations, waiters in restaurants, friends, and many the random person out for a walk. “I don't suppose it's for sale?” is the most common question I hear.
“It” is the old aircooled Volkswagen Beetle. Mine, the Great Pumpkin, is an orange 1971 Super Beetle. And no, it isn't available for purchase.
Update: In an interesting twist of fate, I sold my Bug. Oh well.
In case you're curious, the padded dash on 1968 and later Beetles can be removed, and with some minor body work and ingenuity, you can have a reasonably-nice looking metal dash. I took this picture of a friend's Bug, illustrating the aftermath of such a project.
click to enlarge
Notice the empty vent holes...the stock vents would protrude an inch or so. I've never read of anyone finding vents that fit properly. The instrument cluster grills turned out pretty well, though a hair small, as did the glove box. The screw holes were not filled in this car. Around the radio, he utilized the stock plate, which sticks out a bit.
Much more could be done with this, such as installing the old-fashioned chrome trim, older knobs & grab handle, filling the holes, etc..