What does the V5 say?

Can you not just fill in the right box on the log book with the word "Red" and post it to the DVLA for them to update and send you a new V5?

Could just be a mistake. I did some work on my nieces '00 Beetle recently before taking it for the MOT. On their system it came up as a diesel, instead of petrol.

The other option is what Neil said, although I'm sure I read somewhere that even if you wrap a car in a different colour, the DVLA still record it based on the actual paint colour.

Either way, it's a stunning colour.

The log book has been sent away for a change of keeper. So I only have the New Keeper section and I've just had a look at it and there is no mention of colour on that slip of paper.

When I get the new V5c back I'll need to change the private plate over so I will check and change the colour at that point.

If it has been white at some point in the past, you certainly can't tell now, so I guess the mistake theory is a good one.

Good plan. If it bothers you then a full HPI would confirm any colour changes in the past +++