• Proceeds will be donated in support of Trillion Trees
• More than $70,000 spent on a high-quality restoration
• Unique car ready for sand dunes or the school run

An American icon, the Manx continues to embody the go-anywhere, do-anything spirit of its creator, Bruce Meyers. Based on European underpinnings, the modified Volkswagen Beetle drivetrain and frame, which was shortened by almost 37 cm, offer a steady, reliable base for lightweight fibreglass bodywork. The combination of purpose-built off-road ability and lightweight construction allowed the Manx to dominate the overland racing scene of the 1960s, beating trucks, motorbikes, and cars at the inaugural Baja 1000.

The Manx on offer is a 1970 model and is presented in exceptional condition, thanks to an incredibly thorough restoration, which cost in excess of $60,000. The end result is worthy of such an investment, as this surely remains one of the highest-quality Manxes available.

Mounted behind the rear axle is an oversized 1,915 cc, horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, recently built by air-cooled VW specialists FAT Performance of Southern California. Modifications include a mild Engle 100 cam, Sachs performance clutch, two dual-barrel 40IDF carburettors, and a custom muffler mounted to the original sidewinder exhaust, which makes for an exceptional sound to match the outlandish design.

The spectacular metallic orange finish stays true to the brightly coloured Manxes of the period. Manx bumpers, custom mirrors, and custom-fitted front and rear seats complete the aesthetic. Additionally, specially fabricated Volkswagen wheels, 14 inches up front and 15 inches at the rear, round off the classic look of this all-purpose car. A three-spoke EMPI steering wheel and original Gene Berg short-shifter, linked to a four-speed rancho transmission, make driving great fun. The EMPI skid plate, sand seal-protected flywheel, and seat belts for all passengers mean that this buggy is ready to blast through the dunes, while the wiring for lights makes the Manx perfectly usable on the road, too. This stunning Manx is truly a car for all environments. To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/lf19.