The VW Beetle in 1/24 or 1/25 scale would be about the size of a paperback book. In other words, you could sit the built car on a normal book that size.
The old Bug is a pretty good subject since just about every model company makes one in those scales and other scales both larger and smaller.
Newer style Beetles aren't as common; I think only Tamiya and Revell make it in 1/24 scale. Each has various boxings, like standard and police, but essentially just those two base kits by the companies.
Getting back to the old style Bug, the price of the kit will vary depending on the age of the kit and the manufacturer. Some of the kits are better than other brands. Some will come with complete engines other will not.