The Volkswagen Beetle (1938–2003) is widely considered to be the Car of the Century. Designed by Ferdinand Porsche and first produced in 1938, the Beetle was an affordable, reliable car that was popular around the world. It became an icon of counterculture in the 1960s and was produced until 2003 when production ended due to declining sales. The Beetle has sold over 21 million units, making it one of the most successful cars of all time.