The Beach Buggy Built by Surfers That Became a 60's Icon

28 February 2024 By: Jacob Beattie

We chat with Peter Arnoldi about his Meyers Manx beach buggy

Watch Alex meet Peter to discuss his Meyers Manx and take it for a drive.

Peter's lifelong obsession with Volkswagen has led him to own various iconic vehicles including a Beetle and several classic Porsche’s. His Meyers Manx is a unique part of his collection, resembling a Volkswagen in some ways, but being very different in others.

The legendary vehicle was developed in the 1960’s by Bruce Meyers, a Californian surfer who wanted a beach buggy he could take on surfing trips with friends. Meyers’ design quickly became iconic, representing the freedom and spirit of California. It even featured in movies with Elvis Presley and Steve McQueen.

The popular design led to plenty of replicas being manufactured. Peter says the easiest way to tell between an original and a replica is to check if one of the front mud guards is higher than the other. A difference in height will tell you that it’s an original Meyers Manx. An original will also have a small hump on the bonnet where the badge sits and under the mudguards is a fibreglass channel for wiring.

Peter found his Manx in Malaga, where it was advertised for sale sitting in a front garden. The body was in bad shape, with holes throughout and algae growing in it. Peter had another buggy at the time, which eventually served as a base to re-body with the Manx bodywork.

The restoration wasn’t without its hiccups. Peter spent a total of four years working to repair holes that had been drilled by past owners and re-fibreglassing the body. Fitting the bonnet was a challenge too. Peter’s friend, owning a replica buggy himself, loaned a copy of the book ‘How to Build a Beach Buggy’, with advice leading to solve that challenge.

The Manx sits amongst special company in Peter’s garage. His collection includes a Porsche 356, a Porsche 911, Porsche Speedster replica and his current project, a VW Beetle. This has inspired him to make his own touches to the Manx, including Porsche 356 replica gauges and wheels, a smaller steering wheel allowing him to fit in the car and a custom-built roll bar from South Australia.

Peter plans to travel with the car in tow behind his camper. His next journey with the vehicle will be to enjoy it in its natural habitat on Cable Beach. Until then, expect to see him at Classic Cars and Coffee.