50 Years, 350,000 Miles: The Incredible Story of Annie the VW Beetle

Meet Annie — a 1967 Volkswagen Beetle with an incredible story spanning more than 50 years and an estimated 350,000 miles!

Kathleen Brooks bought Annie brand new in December 1966 for just $2,300. What began as a new car became a lifelong companion, carrying Kathleen through more than five decades of life, work, marriage, divorce, adventures, and even her battles with cancer.

After Volkswagen learned about Kathleen and Annie’s remarkable story, they decided to do something extraordinary. Annie was sent to Volkswagen’s factory in Puebla, Mexico, where a team of approximately 60 employees spent 11 months giving the beloved Beetle an extensive restoration.

Hundreds of components were restored, the engine was rebuilt, and Volkswagen even matched Annie’s original Ruby Red paint using a preserved sample found inside the glovebox.

After more than half a century together, Annie wasn’t simply a car anymore. She had become part of Kathleen’s life and a remarkable example of just how much history can be shared between a person and a Volkswagen Beetle.

Join us as we take a look back at the incredible story of Kathleen Brooks and Annie — 50 years, 350,000 miles, and one very special VW Beetle.

If you love vintage Volkswagens, air-cooled VWs, Beetle history, restorations, and classic cars, be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and let us know in the comments:

How many miles are on YOUR Volkswagen?

Visit Classic VW Bugs for more vintage Volkswagen content, restorations, history, tips and stories.

Last Updated: September 21st, 2026

---