25b Volkswagen Beetle

[Idris]

The NAMC’s “Catalog of all Series Matchbox Models” (second edition) differentiates between light and dark GPW (as does Houghton). In addition, variation 25-2B (clear window, knobbly GPW) is listed with red tailights. (a known variation, but one for which the exact details remain elusive).
The AIM's “1-75 Series Regular Wheels” catalogue (second printing, 1983) does not contain and variations not already catalogues by Nick, and neither does Stannard, nor Houghton.
U.K. Matchbox did not examine the model.

Please note that Nick still requires further details of which variation codes are found with i) red taillights, and ii) black engines.

[kerbside]

Hello Hugh, I have two 25b with clear windows and 10 x 24 GPW, one has Volkswagon spelt on the base and the other has Volkswagen spelt on the base. The one with the spelling Volkswagon on the base has the Red taillights

Also Greg (molars) has this same model as mine with the Red taillights

George T.

[Diecast]

I think that there are some unlisted variations:
front trim:
a) HA silver trim to front bumper and headlights
b) MS silver trim to front bumper and headlights
c) no silver trim
Antonin

[Diecast]

rear trim:
a) HA silver trim to rear bumper and red painted tail lights
b) MS silver trim to rear bumper and red MS tail lights
c) MS silver trim to rear bumper
d) no silver trim

[Diecast]

I enclose a detailed photo of the MS red tail lights

[Diecast]

There is unlisted variation with the strengthening under the front bumper

[Diecast]

another unlisted variation:
a) thin front rivet
b) front rivet with all round strengthening

[Diecast]

two colours (or shades?), similar to 44a Rolls Royce Silver Cloud
a) light metallic blue
b) metallic blue

[Diecast]

model with front GPW ø9,5x20 and rear SPW ø9,5x20
Antonin

[Diecast]

variation with:
a) Volkswagon
b) Volkswagen