Here’s a nifty Bugeye called Owen (AN5L 38484) which came to us from its recent home in Kentucky. With this car, Bugeye fun can be yours at a reasonable price!
This is a solid car with a 948 engine, original smooth case transmission and drum brakes. The car was painted (non-original) gray about 10 years ago. The paint shines nicely. It’s a nice amateur job, good enough for someone who just wants a decent looking Bugeye… perfect for someone not fussy about paint. There are a few small chips and scratches so if you’re looking for a cosmetically sharp car, we have some other choices that would be a better fit. That said, Owen looks nice and I certainly wouldn’t repaint the car in its current condition.
The interior is also good enough, but not brand new. It works for anyone not cosmetically critical who wants a sharp looking Bugeye that turns heads and, given the magnetism of any Bugeye, this car can still win at local shows.
The car drives nicely… the 948 engine has plenty of pep. The 175 tires are a bit dried out so I would change them. Handling and ride is nice.
There is service needed, particularly to the hydraulic system; some new parts are needed, specifically rear wheel cylinders, brake hoses, and new hard hydraulic lines, among other items. We haven’t really dug into this car because we’re quite busy with other projects, so we thought we would offer it for sale as-is and that might be attractive to someone looking to do work on their own this spring. Alternatively, we can address the punch list and run through the car and complete its service needs. I would budget $5000 for that package of upgrades and improvements and as always, we’re happy to partner with the new buyer who wants to get in at a reasonable price and then we can work to build-out the car exactly to the new owner’s specific needs.
Owen comes with an older top with yellowed windows that fits well, and also comes with a set of side curtain cores for rebuilding. We sell all of the components to rebuild them in our catalog, or you can buy new ones, if you prefer. A tonneau is not included but a new one can be fitted for the new owner, if desired.
Owen is a strong car and available for anyone who wants to get into the Bugeye scene without breaking the bank. Click “read more” for the full gallery of photos and call or email if you’re interested!
