Original Factory Colors
Classic Volkswagen Beetle Paint Colors & Factory Codes (1951–1978)
Every original factory paint color offered on the classic Volkswagen Beetle (1951–1978), with official manufacturer paint codes, hex approximations, and rarity notes. Use the paint code to order a color-matched sample from a restoration supplier.
★ Rare / Desirable Colors
★ Rare
Horizon Blue
L331
#738894
1956–1957
A soft grey-blue offered for two model years.
Standard Colors
Medium Blue
L37
#1b1e42
1951–1955
A deep navy from the early 1950s.
Gulf Blue
L390
#466274
1961–1963
A medium steel blue of the early 1960s.
Sea Blue
L360
#36586f
1964–1966
A medium marine blue of the mid-1960s.
VW Blue
L633
#36586f
1967–1968
A mid-blue offered for the 1967-68 model years; hex approximate.
Marina Blue
L54D
#7f9fb2
1971–1974
A light, airy blue typical of the bright early-1970s range.
Marathon Blue
L96M
#8498ab
1973–1976
A muted mid-blue of the mid-1970s.
Ancona Blue
L97B
#364e81
1975–1978
A rich royal blue of the late 1970s.
About these colors:
Color names, factory paint codes, and production years are cross-referenced from established
marque references and owner registries. Hex codes are approximate digital representations of
factory paint — vintage automotive paint was never defined as a hex value, and original enamel
fades over time. True paint colors depend on age, sun exposure, refinishing history, and
production batch variation. For an accurate match, always mix by the factory paint code — not
by the on-screen swatch — and verify against an original paint chip or a professional
color-matched sample before purchasing paint for a restoration.