Description

Now available is a rare and distinctive Beach Buggy S by Albar, the Swiss manufacturer renowned for handcrafted vehicles characterized by meticulous detail and high build standards.

It is precisely this exceptional build quality that has allowed this specific example to survive to the present day in such impeccable condition.
Aesthetically, the fiberglass bodywork is free of structural damage or cracks—as is the chrome trim—and the interior is in excellent shape, showing only a single tear on the driver's seat.
Mechanically, the powerful 1600 engine runs flawlessly, making the vehicle very responsive and fun to drive.

The car was purchased in Germany by its most recent owner and still bears German registration plates and documents, having previously been used in a private setting.

A buggy ready to hit the road.

Model history and curiosity

The Albar Buggy S 1600 is a cult dune buggy born from the vision of Swiss manufacturer Alois Barmettler (whose name inspired the "AL-BAR" moniker); he founded his company in Buochs, Switzerland, before expanding into Germany.

While many dune buggies in the 1960s and 70s were essentially spartan "kit cars" built in home garages, Albar aimed for a significantly higher standard of construction. Its fiberglass bodies were robust and well-finished, featuring refined accessories, body-hugging seats, and custom-fitted soft tops suitable for both daily driving and recreational use.

Key features:

Volkswagen mechanics: Like most buggies of the era, it is based on the chassis and mechanical components of the iconic Volkswagen Beetle.

1600 engine: It is powered by the classic 1.6-liter, air-cooled VW flat-four engine—a robust unit that is easily tuned with upgrades like dual carburetors or sports exhausts.

"S" Series: The "S" designation identifies a version with a sporty, sculpted profile, designed for superior handling on both road and sand.

1988 model year: A 1988-registered model belongs to the final production run of these vehicles—a period when European homologation regulations for chassis derived from vintage cars were becoming much stricter, making these late-production examples quite rare.

Today, Albar buggies are among the most highly regarded European dune buggies among enthusiasts of classic cars and the vintage VW scene, thanks to the quality of their original design and their unmistakable 1970s/80s aesthetic.

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