Morestone/Budgie No.8 Volkswagen Saloon was one of the models made at the Modern Products foundery. It was based on the VW 1200 Sedan with the small oval rear window.

First launched as Esso Series No.8 Volkswagen Saloon  in 1956, it was re-issued under the Budgie Toys logo in 1960 and continued in production until 1970 when the Modern Products business was sold and diecast toys discontinued.

The VW did not change much during its long life. From the start it was painted metallic silver-blue with a painted silver base which included both front and rear bumpers. For many years it had unpainted metal wheels but around 1961 some models were fitted with grey plastic wheels before the final switch to black plastic.

One feature of the Volkswagen was the trim. Being a silver colour, a contrasting tone was needed for the headlights and the one chosen was orange. At the rear, the tail-lights and central number-plate cowl were given dark red, and red was also used on early models for the fuel cap beneath the windscreen. Levels and tones of trim varied and some of these are pictured below.

During its life, No.8 Volkswagen appeared in many different boxes and packs starting with the Esso Petrol Pump Series of which it had no less than four types! Budgie re-issued it in yellow blister-packs (now rare) but mainly in 'Mobile' and Modern' Vehicle Series boxes. It was also included in both Budgie Gift Sets Nos.8 and 12.

Blue blister-packs were introduced in 1962 when Guiterman bought Budgie Toys and these continued after Guiterman's demise in 1966 until 1970 under the 'Budgie Models' name. The Volkswagen also appeared in the US in World Toy House packs and in two 'Traffic Set' triple packs.