TheSamba.com :: View topic - oval vert vs '59 vert- differences

Sun Nov 16, 2008 5:20 pm

I have a '59 vert that was involved in an accident, and I am faced with the issue of fixing it, or buying a '57 unfinished project. My question is what can I use from the '59 on the '57? I know the big differences like fenders, dash, all that stuff. I used to own a '56 rag. What I want to know is, are there differences in:
windshield and all other glass besides the back window (which I know is smaller on an oval vert)
window mechanisms- all 4 windows
convertible top frame
rear seat size

Ideally I would use most of my '59 parts on the '57, if I can. Can someone help me out please? The '57 body will go on my '59 pan which does not appear damaged from the accident.

Thanks,
Greg

Sun Nov 16, 2008 6:53 pm

Buy the 57 :lol: :lol: Use what ever parts you can use and sell the stuff you cant use, Im pretty sure all the window mechanisms will work. What you can do is go to http://www.wolfsburgwest.com/wolfsburg_new/convertible/index.cfm
and compare years that are compatible
Dave

Tue Nov 18, 2008 3:09 pm

Dave:
Thanks for the reply and that sheds some light on stuff such as seals for the windows (look to be the same except the windshield), and that the rooves are different. But I am still wondering if the driver, passenger, and quarter windows are the same, if all the mechanisms are the same, back seat the same size, etc.

Anyone else?

Wed Nov 19, 2008 2:26 pm

the doors and door windows are the same size, no issues there. the top mechanism is the same. back window different. top latches and catches same

I dont know about the seat

Fri Nov 21, 2008 12:08 pm

The windshield is smaller on the Oval, and its frame is different and also the front header on the roof, which is less curved across the top on an Oval Cabrio. I doubt you´ll have any problem using the side windows.

Compare this Ovals screen surround...

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/album_page.php?pic_id=496220

to this later cars...

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/album_page.php?pic_id=491213

Its subtle, but its not the same.

Fri Nov 21, 2008 12:52 pm

The top mechanism might be the same but the position of the wood frame over the rear window is different. It's a little bit higher to make room for the bigger window.

Sun Nov 23, 2008 1:52 pm

I "might" have the '58 thru about '63? Convertible roof assembly in storage if you end up not having the right roof. No sure, haven't looked at it in a long time. Not really sure how to valve it either...

Bill