hoping for help from SB100 experts

[jhv48]

Why make it harder than it is? Can’t the Manx be registered using the original vin from the VW chassis?
Isn’t it still considered to be a modified VW?

[SB100FOMO]

Originally Posted by jhv48

Why make it harder than it is? Can’t the Manx be registered using the original vin from the VW chassis?
Isn’t it still considered to be a modified VW?

Yes, most Manx Buggies are registered as a VW Beetles, but speaking from personal experience that leaves you in kind of a no mans land when it comes to insurance, liability, and the CHP.

I bought a Manx project that was already registered as a 63' VW in CA. By the time I finished the project the only thing left was the VW tunnel (with original VIN) and floorpan, which is typical for the breed. It had a full powder coated cage, a built turbo subaru engine w/ custom intercooler and radiator & plumbing, stand alone ECU with dyno tune, high HP Weddle transmission, billet brakes, long travel suspension, etc, etc.

I shopped hard for insurance options and went with a broker who was a member of the Manx Club that "specialized" in writing insurance policies for Manx Buggies. I sent photos and a description of the vehicle to the agent, who issued a policy for a "1963 VW Dune Buggy". Same year as the VIN on the tunnel and the reg.

Fast forward to a wild fire that destroyed most of our neighborhood and my Manx. After hiring a private adjuster who fought the insurance company for almost a year, they paid me approx 35% of the market value of a comparable used Manx. Reason given? It was insured as a 1963 VW Dune Buggy (by their agent) so their comps were Dune Buggies from the 60's with stock VW engines and components, and completely disregarded our "like for like" comp of equivalent builds.

These days, the value of original Meyers Manx Buggies has risen, so you can get a pretty good stated value policy from Hagerty or Rally, but there are limitations...namely no off-road use, which is part of the reason to have a buggy in the first place.

As far as the CHP, every situation is different. They tend to give a pass to old school buggies with original VW engines and running gear, but take a lot harder stance on at aggressive looking cars with big tires, long travel suspension and large exposed engines with turbo's or superchargers and headers, etc.