I’m not sure anyone has a perfect surviving wire cover in their classic beetle. The originals were made out of a pressed fiberboard. It didn’t take too many years before they started to crack, crumble, and just generally fall apart.
Surprisingly, when I got my beetle back in 2005 the wire cover was “Almost” in great shape. The only exception was a crack running down the on the right side of the board. Of course over the years it got worse and I tried to make it last longer by taping the back side. Eventually, I had to tape the front side as well. Then the holes for the nuts also broke apart. I guess a 57 year run isn’t horrible! Still, I was not interested in a plastic cover at all, even though I realize that would last forever.
So on and off over the years I had searched for a New Old Stock (NOS) wire cover but was never successful. I also checked out different VW supply houses to see what was available. Always the options were just plastic.
Then back in July I noticed that Wolfsburg west was selling an alternative that was supposed to be very close to the original. Their description: WIRING COVER, 1956-1967 Bug, made from fiberboard material with proper texture. Features correctly shaped metal grommets and factory correct matte black coating. Made by Wolfsburg West.
After a conversation with their customer support, I ordered the cover. I have to say, I was very impressed. What a beautiful reproduction. I’m not sure anyone would know the difference when compared to the original except this one seems to be made more substantially.
I highly recommend this cover if you are interested in an original look to your trunk. Keep in mind, the price is around $70.00 for this cover, whereas the plastic ones are about $30.00. They also sell the nuts if you happen to be missing those.
I have to say I am impressed.
