1972 Volkswagen Beetle Super 1302-S review from North America
"Little gas-saver with much"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Fuel pump died 3 years ago, cost 5.00 (US $) for replacement, did it myself in front of my college dormitory.
Both heat exchangers rusted straight through twice letting a little exhaust in the cabin until I finally replaced them with Swedish heat exchanges.
Brakes had problems for several years until I got a good "Air-Cooled" Beetle mechanic.
Minor electrical skirmishes - but easy to fix (like wiring a pocket radio).
Can't seem to get rid of a fuel tank odor when the tank is over 1/2 fuel (it has a brand new tank) - strange.
Heater is only good over 60-MPH - bring blankets.
Blesses your driveway with little oil spots.
General comments?
You cannot kill this car - well... unless your name is rust.
For such a small engine, this car will still smoke the tires for several feet (because of the 4.125 factory axle ratio I guess).
However, between 45 and 93 MPH it doesn't feel quite so fast.
Good A to B transportation for even the slightest do-it-yourselfer.
I like the Super Beetle power but prefer the look of the standard Beetle.
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| 1971 - Beetle Standard 1.6L flat 4 Not perfect, but fun to drive, and tough as nails! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1972 |
| First year of ownership | 1992 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 4 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 145000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 188000 miles |
| Previous car | Pontiac Bonneville |
| Date of Entry | 8th February, 2001 |