Original Factory Colors
Classic Volkswagen Beetle Paint Colors & Factory Codes (1954–1979)
Every original factory paint color offered on the classic Volkswagen Beetle (1954–1979), with official manufacturer paint codes, hex approximations, and rarity notes. Use the paint code to order a color-matched sample from a restoration supplier.
Strato Silver
L227
#556474
1954–1956
A blue-grey metallic-leaning tone of the mid-1950s.
Diamond Silver
L97A
#afb8c4
1974–1979
A cool silver metallic that ran to the end of US Beetle sales.
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.