c.1950’s Morestone ‘Esso’ Petrol Pump Series No.8 Volkswagen Beetle

Morestone Esso Volkswagen Beetle: A Small Car with Serious Staying Power

A Long Life on Tiny Wheels

The No.8 Volkswagen Saloon, also known as the Sedan, joined Morestone’s ‘Esso’ Petrol Pump Series with charm and staying power. Based on the 1953–1958 real-life VW with its signature oval rear window, this little classic stayed on shelves until 1970—long after petrol pumps disappeared from the packaging.

A Foundry Just Down the Road

Modern Products, based near Morris & Stone’s offices, produced several Esso models—including this one. They kept things simple. The Saloon featured a no-frills body and base construction, with bumpers cast as part of the base. Underneath, it read ‘Volkswagen Sedan’, ‘Made in England’, and ‘No.8’. Job done.

Silvery Style with a Splash of Orange

Morestone painted it metallic silvery-blue, but didn’t stop there. They added quirky orange trim to the headlights, sometimes to the filler cap, and a touch of red on the tail-lights. It looked just the right mix of polished and playful. The unpainted metal wheels, secured with flat-head crimped axles, kept everything rolling smoothly.

Boxed in Variety

Collectors can find this model in four different types of ‘Esso’ boxes. However, when the series ended in 1959, Budgie kept the wheels turning. They reissued it in Mobile and Modern (type 1) boxes—and later, Budgie blister packs joined the line-up.

Certificate of Authenticity

We guarantee the authenticity and grade on our products, unless stated otherwise.

In the rare incident you are dissatisfied with an item you purchase from us, simply return it within 7 days (Within Australia) 14 Days (International) and we provide you with a replacement or issue you a refund in full.

No videos at present.

Postage Methods within Australia.

We ship Australia wide using registered signed for delievery

Orders under AUD$199 are sent registered signed for mail

Orders above AUD$200 are sent express signed for mail

Do you ship overseas?

Yes, we ship items overseas, using a number of services. Orders under AUD$199 are automatically sent via international registered mail. Items greater than AUD$200 are sent via Express Courier International service.

Tracking & Proof of Shipment

All shipping and tracking information is provided upon time of despatch.