1973 Volkswagen Type I Super Beetle review from North America
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Fuel pump failed and filled crankcase with gas (goodbye bearings). Changed to electric fuel pump. Rear side vents prone to body rot. Rear wheel bearings failed (over-sized tires -- bad plan). Odds and ends (mostly cheap ones). Heater is (as everyone knows) a joke. A/C works good, but robs a lot of HP.
General comments?
Lord only knows how many miles on this car and still going strong. Any fool can fix one with a book and a basic tool box. I've owned them for 30 years. Above all, buy good parts (i.e., German parts worth 10-20% more you pay for them). A timeless, super-fun car to drive and cheap, easy keeper. Daughter won't part with it. Kids can afford to keep them on the road. Regular oil change, tune up and proper valve adjustment absolute must. Dealer service (even in the 70's) is second only to being robbed at gun point!!
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1971 - Type I Standard 1.6 gasoline A fun, cheap to own classic |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 litre dual port |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Date of Entry | 7th February, 1999 |