My favorite year for the beetle would be 1963. I like everything about that year. 1967’s are great too,but I like the old style headlights with the large glass covers and the older decklid and tail light designs.
I had a 63 bug, a 69 bug, a 70 bug, and a 73 bug. All were great little cars. Also, I had a 69 fastback and a 72 squareback. I could pull the engine out by myself and have in on the bench in a little over an hour. Great vehicles. My 73 had fuel injection and got great fuel economy. I'm 70, and I remember the great fall VW commercials every fall introducing the new bug, "Volkswagon does it again."
I am born in ‘55 but fell for the 1966 1300. Last of the real classic beetle covered headlights, the flattened hubcaps that reflect front suspension changes, and the reliable 1300 engine that did not seem to be overworked. Throw in a sliding steel sunroof with a Golde hand crank and I’m in love. I won’t let my wife know!
1966 was a great year. Like you say, the last year before the great headlight change! The 1300 was a great engine. Now I can't remember if it was the first year or the last year that they ran the camshaft directly on the induction hardened case. But it was reliable in any event. The busses always introduced the next sized engines a year earlier than the Beetles. So my 66 Bus had a 1500 engine like the '67 Beetle. But I liked that the 66 said 1300 on the rear deck lid. I think the only year to do that, I'm not sure.
I've had four bugs. 1970, 1965, 1969, and the one I have now a 1967. I was lucky to find the 67. I was doing a job at a persons home when I noticed the neighbor open his garage door, and there set this completely refurbished 1967, new paint, new engine, etc etc etc everything had been done. Body off chassis the works. I approached the owner who was an elderly gentleman, and started a conversation on how I was looking for a new Bug. He wasn't looking to sell at the time, but I gave him my card, and told him I'd pay cash. A month later he called me, we got together, he wanted $10,000 I offered $6,500. he asked me if I had a garage to put it in, and I said yes, he said yes, and I had the 67 VW! Since buying it five years ago I have replaced many after market parts with genuine German factory parts which I found with quite a bit of online, and driving to old VW repair shops. I have all original German glass except for the windshield, and I'm still looking for that, and the front hood I believe was an after market hood, and it doesn't fit as tight as it should so I am still looking for a 67 hood. Other then that I am almost complete with returning it to all German specs approx. 90%. Love driving in around the city, and people giving me the peace sign, what a hoot!
So many dealers then sold fake rust-proofing too! If a beetle was treated correctly underneath it kept the battery and engine compartment and the belly pan from rusting as quickly. Ive seen them with and without it and the difference is obvious.
My first car was a used 67 I bought used in 1973. I paid $1200 for it, had a two inch view as my defroster was an ice scraper I used on the inside in the blizzards of 1977 and 1978. The gas cap was under the hood, which was fun to fill in the rain. It had a hole under the steering wheel floorboard, which would splash me with rain and slush in my face. No radio, but it held all my worldly possessions when I moved.
No doubt the 1967. Not just because I owned several I flipped the odometer 6 times in my driving bug. John Muir said "be kind to your ass as it bears you". No doubt you love your bug it'll love you back.
My first car was a 1961 Volkswagen beetle bug. I really like the way it drives on the road. Steering was so responsive. It was so much fun to turn it on and be able to go anywhere I wanted. I miss it I want another one
The average person can't tell the difference between a '59 and a '72. They just see a bug and say "cool!" Worrying about the little differences is really an enthusiast game. What I'm not a fan of is the cliquey snobbery. Not everyone can fork out $$$$ for a split window. I love my early '63 ragtop, but my previous bug was a '71 superbeetle and it was a great car to drive. Love 'em all, they're all classics at this point. The youngest beetle in the U.S. is turning 40 this year.
Omg you hit the nail on the head....the 67 and earlier crowd love to prance around like and talk down to you as if they were all Thurston Howell the 3rd 😋
@@johnteill_ IKR. I have a '72 Super Beetle, and they ask me that is the chassis a roller with the body off. I said "Yes, because us Super owners figured a way to make them a roller", then I come back with "Is your chassis a roller with the transmission removed?".
When my wife and I got married (many many years ago) we both had Beetles. She had a '67 and I had a '70 and we loved them both. I wish we had kept one of them.
I had a 70’ bug. Max was the best car ever! $1998 delivered to the house. That beautiful dark green color. He never failed to start…even at 30 below. It even had it’s original battery when I sold it to a friend at 138.000 miles, who drove another 20.000 miles before northeast rust took him away. Everything I learned about repairs came from this hippie guy book…”VW repairs for the complete idiot” or something like that. Very funny and informative. My mom had a 67’ Ghia in a Caribbean blue…beautiful! Nice video thanks.
You just made our day... Me and my wife just bought our first VW project. One owner, all original 1967 Beetle. We have since heard about its uniqueness. Oh, and the previous owners added VintageAir A/C...
I only play 1971 songs in my 1971 beetle and the hits in 71' are hard to beat,...."its to late"- Carol King, " help me make it through the night"- Sammi Smith, "wild world"- Cat Stevens and "me and Bobby Mcgee" by Janis Joplin just to name a few. 😉
1967 Bug has been the one to own since the 70s. Nice to see that noting has changed. I had a '71 Super Beetle that got me through college. Never left me hanging, but it wasn't the most relaxing vehicle to drive, especially long distances. Always amazed me how far that car could go in snow before you had to install the chains...
I would love a 67 beetle when I can only choose a stock one. If I may mix and match I want a hard dash, updated electrical system, 12V system and a CD player (for ease of use) at least 40 horsepower. the floors may be welded as long as its solid. Body shouldn't be rusted trough, but spots are acceptable for me. I really like how a beetle isn't just a car, its a piece of culture, almost a lifestyle
I have only one Beetle…. Got him last August for my 40th birthday! I always wanted a classiv vw bug…. It’s a 1984 mexican…and I love him to bits…even if I could ever buy another one I will keep my “Dagobert” forever! He is the best bug because he is mine ^1
I worked for V/W from June 1966 to August 1986 and I loved them all and yes there was problems through all of those years. Case studs pulling, C/V joint's popping, Fuel injection problems, ball joints, and electrical problems and the list goes on they made some dumb mistakes but I loved them all I owned several Karmann ghia several bugs and a van and I never bought a New one. I could find somany used ones at a giveaway price. Someone mentioned 6 volt systems and I could fix that problem permanent fix. But if you want 12 volt accessories you can change it over but you still need to change some problems. Regards; Phillip C.
My first bug was a 65 and my dad purchased it when I turned 16, it was great, had a stock sunroof and I pretty much made it into a cal look, dropped, one piece windows, louvers. I loved that car in high school. Growing up in Southern California, my mom had a 71 with the automatic shift purchased brand new. So many memories listening to AM radio and hanging out with my mom as a kid. In 77 dad purchased a white on white convertible super bug and it was special. It was given to me as my college car and I basically kept it stock but lowered the stance slightly and had the chrome hubcaps with 50 series tires. It was a looker and I kept it clean. Sold it to go to school in Switzerland. I love bugs but when I first laid my eyes on a 356 speedster that was dropped, it took my heart away. Would have loved to have had a notchback or a ghia but if I had a choice, a 64' 356SC would be my upgrade. Cheers!
67 all day long. Both Bug and Bus. 12 volt system changed the entire experience. Bigger engines. Last old style split window in the bus and pretty much old style body on the bug. The quintessential Pivotal model year. Values agree. Individual favs may vary.
I want a 67 beetle or convertible superbeetle. My dad had a 67 and we loved that car. My dad would go out in the garage and wax the thing until it looked like a mirror. Then we would take a ride on Saturdayand I would look out the side window and watch the world go by in the reflexion of the fender. Awesome! One thing I have to keep in mind is that the superbeetles have provisions for AC, and I live in AZ. I also like the modified beetles with Porsche rims and wide fenders from and rear.
I've always loved the beetles but the 68-72 with the tombstone taillights has a special place for whatever reason, that's always been a dream car of mine haha
I grew up working on beetles but never really owned one until 2010 when I bought my 58 convertible. I didn't really want a convertible but it was so cheap I snapped it up. I never regretted it one minute. I daily drive it in the Summer months here on the East Coast and it never disappoints.
Great analogy of which is the best year Beetle. I just got my 65 yesterday. It is the ultimate bug to me because it has been in our family since late 1964. My mother was the original owner, sold it to her sister (my aunt) in 66 because my aunt rolled hers hydroplaning on the freeway and needed a car to get to work. She drove it as her daily all over LA until 2013 up to the age 90. She passed on and my cousin, her son has been using it until now. Many things have happened including being stolen once and on another occasion T-boned in the drivers door which was replaced. It needs a full cosmetic restoration but drives great. I just love it so much, very fun and I'm Ford GT owner among others and even though the bug is not fast, it still gives me the same feel of driving satisfaction and smiles per miles.
You are 100% spot on! I’ve had 3 bugs. A 1965 bought in 1968 in perfect shape I drove while in the army, Did nothing to it except chug oil and adjustment of the valves every 3k Miles. It was great. I bout another when out of Army in 1970.... it was a cherry 1965 bug. I overhauled it and it was perfect in every way. Around 1975 purchased a super beetle, but didn’t like it as much as the 1965. HOWEVER.... I always yearned for the 1967. The 12 volt was worth it for brighter lights, but NEVER had a problem starting and driving the 1965. When windy, you’d better slow down! However I still,remember driving a stock 1965 80MPH (Stupidly) on the highway. Would love to one day have the 1967. It was also last to have the fence bumpers!
I learned to drive in a 1958 beetle in 1965. My father had bought the car new, and was used by my mother until she decided she wanted a car with automatic transmission, power steering and air conditioning. It was just sitting in my house when I was learning how to drive...I used it for about three years, until my sister, who had bought a 1966 (1300), left for graduate school in 1968. I preferred the new, much more powerful car, leaving the 1958 unused until a friend of a neighbor made my father an offer. Very pleasant memories.
For sure hands down the 1967 was the best beetle ever made i've owned em all when they came out with the 68 that was the begining of the end. By the way you did a real nice job with your presentation.
Two things you forgot about the '67, both one year only period. The door knobs, and the bacukp lights. The backup lights survived though the 70's on the Type 2, but on the bug, were integrated into the taillights. I had a '67, but I think '70 is my next favorite. Good video.
The 1967 Beetle that I had 20 years and put 600-700 thousand on my driving log. Unique parts as I recall: Door locks, window wind up mechanism, front fenders, brown electrical central circuit box, Sapphire V or was it IV radio, rear engine lid. Quartz Halogen lights that attach to rear bumper. Transmission had a switch for these backup lights. When I replaced the transmission no switch on that transmission. I made a mechanical switch under the dashboard. Hubcaps 66/67 for the two year only steel rims.1500 motor that everyone traded up to a 1600. I had many many engines. Inside of 1500 engine cases I heard the crank support webbing may have been different? Maybe the windshield wiper motor setup was special? Grab handle over the glove box door may have been different? A special plate that went around the lower large pulley was special I believe. Most people tossed them out as they thought they were unnecessary. I had mine which surprised some people. I think it was there to control the fan belt if it broke. Without it a broken fan belt would whip around awhile knocking off the fuel line drenching the distributor and often result in an engine fire. Ever seen a beetle with a black spot on the engine lid? Now you know. That's all I can remember at the moment. Valve adj. every 3,000 miles. I was adjusting them every month! When I went to Florida from California I did them along side the road once going and once coming back cross country. What a pain!
56-57 is a sweet year. Good looking, great craftmanship. Good engines. Honestly the best year is the one you can afford. I got 52-56-58-68-70 and I love the 68 the most. 68 euro is like 67 US. First year 12 volt.
I've owned several Beetles, including a '66, '67 and a '71. I preferred the '71, especially once I upgraded it to dual carbs, a 009 distributor, J-tubes, and a header, to give it a bit more power. They had the dog house oil cooler, which ran much cooler where I live, in South Florida. Also the double jointed rear axles ride much better than the earlier single jointed swing axles. A buddy had a '73 Super Beetle that we tricked out similarly to mine, and I must admit that the ride quality with the front MacPherson struts was even better than my '71. No more being blown into another lane when there was a wind gust, or when passed by a large truck. Also the added frunk and interior cabin space was a godsend.
@@timsgta I had a standard '71 Beetle, my buddy had the '73 Super. There were definitely significant upgrades to the '73 Super over my '71. Mine had a flat windscreen like all other beetles, and different seats that were identical (or nearly) to the 68-70 Beetles, while my friend's bug had a curved windscreen and seats that were much different than mine. Like I said, his rode much better than mine did, especially at highways speeds where his was much more stable and less prone to being blown into another lane by the wind.
from a safety engineering standpoint, and just working off memory 67 got rid of the dangerous swinging axle to double joint suspension, it had front disks and better rollover protection in a stronger body shell 12 volt system meant it had more useful lights that worked especially in highway and adverse weather, and the reangled headlights just worked better
No, I wasn't born in 1967 but I graduated from high school that year. This is just the icing on the cake for this model being my favorite with the 12V system, 1500 cc engine, dashboard and other things. Thanks for your opinion on this and for your videos!
Great video. 67 was the first with the new headlight, and the only, and the last with standalone backup lights. 68 and were all built in with the tail lights, and the door handles are one year only.
I loved mine and any year after the demise of the split screen variants would please me. They were brilliant. Simple, ultra reliable and fun to drive. OK so they'd never win any prizes for being fast but that makes no difference to the fun factor. When I was stationed in Germany I saw a Porsche try to drag start away from the lights only to be overtaken and pulled in by a Police beetle , gave me a smile for the rest of the day.
I have a 77 std beetle, everybody trashes my car, I say to each his own, at least mine isn’t a super, and I’m having fun learning...plus side, I have a nice freeway flyer AND I’m not afraid to drive it every day. Have fun with your stuff man!!!
A 1966 is the best, second place is 1967. and all of the other ones are still cool. had to add this. 1966 after 12 volt upgrade. my 66 had a few 67 12 volt parts, including the transaxle and all of the other parts that fit.
1967 is great if you want an older-look beetle. But I actually prefer the 1968. That was the year that they went to an external fuel filler, which is much more convenient, and I like the taller front seats, for comfort as well as safety. You do get the new style bumbers and dash, but it still has a lot of character and looks vintage today (as it should, being over 50 years old!). But I'm probably prejudiced because my first car was a 1968 convertible :)
My beloved put a ragtop sunroof on a 65 beetle. The body is great. No rust. My son and I took over the restoration and painted it black. We installed all the windows ourselves. We got a new ragtop for it. The motor is fine but I don't know the specifics. New tires, nice wheels. Nice original chrome.The interior is complete but the seats have some rips. That is my task now. What a fun family project.
In January 1973 I found My 1969 Red Beetle , sitting quite lonely on a Porsche dealer used car lot in Rockville, Md. The bug looked new , and had 26,389 miles . Ran like a dream for years and years. I paid $1,150 for it , and loved every minute behind the wheel .
i too had a 69, i considered it a more 'modern' bug. it was great at hiway speeds. took the entire back seat out, carpeted it from back window down - lotsa room! black with whitewalls, looked like an old coupe from the 40s...like everyone says, 'i shoulda KEPT it...'
I’ve owned several Vw and two 67’s to many one year only parts for someone starting out. Some pre 67 can be to expensive for a beginner unless they get lucky. Further back you go the more expensive parts are and more rare parts to find. I always like the second gen or 68-72 standards. Parts are more available and cheaper and besides 68 not a whole lot of one year only parts and before they started putting emissions junk on them. This generation they made the most cars so they are more available. Yes everyone would like and early car but it might not be in their budget. On another note if you find a later model super beetle 73-79 and want to do a complete restore they do not make a complete wiring harness . 71,72 supers they do. But if you find a 73-77 standard you will be fine. An old Vw mechanic told me his best year to own was a 70 no one year only parts and single port heads so less chance of heads cracking and engine studs didn’t pull out it has a B block. I have to agree with him. I love my 59 but stuff is expensive for it. FYI
I owned a 1960 VW Bug, and I was born in 1960. I thought that was cool. My Dad and I tuned it up to get over 50 mpg. That was in the late 1970s when I was in high school.
I bought a 65 in the fall of 72 for $600 and loved it . Only cost me $4 to fill the tank and it took me back and forth to school all week and still had enough gas left to go joy riding on Saturday s. But it also loved the repair shop. The clutch cable was constantly snapping at least every 2 months and I couldn’t keep the brakes adjusted. Whoever had it before me must have lived in a real salty area because every time I drove it in the rain the battery compartment got washed and when you came to a stop the water came sloshing forward. Then the heater door cables rusted open and I had heat year round. Then trying to find 6 volt light bulbs was more fun. Other than that I love d driving it
I bought my ‘67 project from you about 5 years ago Chris. No, it still isn’t running....BUT.....I’m almost done. Why do I like my ‘67? Low back seats, 12vt, metal dashboard, NICE BUMPERS. Very happy I decided on this year! When you get into the 50’s the prices skyrocket😳
Remember driving this car as a teenager in the late '60s. Parents and girlfriend parents both owned them. Being a car guy at the time, found several aspects curious: - As an air-cooled engine it was at the back of the car. - The doors closed with an air-tight sealing effect that would almost pop your ears. - The heater was a little lame in cold Chicago winters and slow to come up to speed compared to water-cooled cars. Other than that, appreciated how light it was and maneuverable in snowy conditions, and miserly with fuel consumption. Tinny but sipped the gas.
My 1st car was a 1962 used red beetle with 78k miles showing on the odometer. Had no radio no heater {lived in Chicago very bad ice inside windshield wintertime}. I was a dumb almost 18 year old in 1968. The used car salesman told me I could have the red beetle OR a green and black Karman Gia convertible for $500. WHAT WAS I THINKING? Got the beetle had to replace the clutch after 2 months and eventually the brakes but I got 2 super years of work service out of before trading it in for a new Impala. But I was so impressed with how well that beetle handled the snowy Chicago streets.
@@wingadinga4003 I had trouble with my '76 fuel injection to the point that I had to sell the car (I was in college and needed reliable transportation ...not a classic car). My '78 is fuel injected but he is cared for by a vintage VW specialist who knows them inside and out.
There's no contest in my mind. As a former "buy only American muscle cars addict", I bought me a brand new yellow 1972 VW Beetle when I turned 30 years old. Had it for 10 fantastic years and cried like a baby when i traded it in.
You are right, it is the 67! I had a 62, then a 65 while in college, a 68 on my 1st job. In 78 when I joined the AF I bought a 1970 baby blue Square-back and my last one was a 1969 white Camper, but 67 was the best year for all the reasons you mentioned.
I purchased a 1965 VW in early June on Long Island, NY after graduating from Lafayette College. I paid $1,675 for it. I then drove that car for ten years. The only time I could not drive it was when I lived in central Alaska when the temperature was below -20 F and the air over cooled the engine. By the end of those ten years the car had 123,000 miles on it. It was the best car that I have ever owned and I would vote for it as the best year of the VW bug!
My son is correct. He was 15 years old when he said that if he will get a beetle, it will be a 1967 and he is right. We used to have one parked in our garage. It has a 12v generator system (my uncle replaced it with a 35amp alternator), disc brakes in front, 1500cc eng and adjustable seat folding seat locks! My uncle replaced the shocks with all bilstein with coil wrap around in the rear, replaced the main jets to 148 and upped the air emulsion jets 2 notches higher. During the early80s you can still buy German wiring harness so that one was replaced during the 90s. If one comes up, I will tell my son to get it.
The parts availability for the '67 model? Well, when it comes to the front fenders, I wonder. There's a YT post where a person in San Diego had a red '67 model that by the 21st century it was showing its age and looking very worn. VW of Mexico did a full restoration job to that '67, where it disappointedly had the front fenders replaced with an earlier era Beetle design, and not the fenders with the seal-beam headlamps. That restoration job impressed me that the replacement front fenders for the '67 model are no longer available.
Always a great question. My very first car was a '63 Beetle that I bought in 1974 for $250. I've owned several air cooled beetles since but the '63 was my favorite. The things I remember being significant were that it was the first year for "fresh air heating", and that it had the original style g lass covered headlights with the little marker light bulb in the housing. Sure the 12V system is desirablebvb but I wouldn't trade the classic look of the front feders with the glass covered headlights. There are other differences too, and I agree that the non-padded dash is important. The other thing that is desireable about a'67 was the ball joint front suspension. It was easier to turn than the King and Link Pin suspension. But I liked the vent wng windows with the older style lastches, but the later years had a center defroster outlet which was nice too. So like you say, different folks will choose different years according to their taste. Right now, I would love to be back in a bug. These were honest cars that had a soul. Great memories. Thanks for your video.
I have a 66 with a 57 3 fold, bullet turn signal front fenders, W decklid, and oval window, plus a 68 side gas fill opening. IMO the best of all VW worlds.
As much as I love the oval window I have been driving my 1974 Superbug since 1982. I like this model for how it drives. It’s got IRS rear suspension and macpherson strut front end, front disc brakes, safety cell body, curved windshield with great visibility and a 55amp hour alternator pumping out 12volts. It drives like a Porsche. I have also added twin Webber’s, 009 distributor with electronic ignition, bigger camshaft, high pressure oil pump and a GT exhaust system. On the suspension I have fitter koni struts and bilstien shocks on the rear as well as additional heavy duty sway bars front and back. My bug puts a smile on my face every time I drive it and makes me feel 18 again - just like when I had my first Superbug back in high school. I know purist’s whom poopoo the Superbug but I wouldn’t drive anything else.
My last VW was a 1976 standard Beetle. It may not be as collectible as the early Bugs but, it was far better as a daily driver. It has the more modern rims, a double jointed rear suspension, and all the little things that make it more practical. Keep it stock and in good order and it will be just as good as any modern compact car. It has the L-Jetronic fuel injection system which CAN be a problem but, once you figure out how to adjust the airflow meter, that engine will wake up big time! Every VW I had got the Pertronix electronic ignition conversion. That's another thing that the VW engine will love. Strong sparks and accurate timing. Autolite 275 plugs are better than the Bosch WR8AC plugs. BTW, I had NO PROBLEM getting enough heat from the stock heater! Keep all connections airtight, inspect and patch any holes in the heater channels, and don't mess with the exhaust. It all works together and too many people fuck it all up and then complain when things aren't working right. I hate it when people put in a Bosch 009 distributor instead of getting the stock vacuum/mechanical advance distributor rebuilt. That vacuum advance is there for a reason and the 009's are never as good for street driving.
@@socaljarhead7670 there are many cars that have been restored that I have questioned lol. Personally I don't mind the beetle but I know there are others who loath them. Just a quirk of the classic car world
Me too. 63 & older but I have only owned a 63 ragtop. Amazing car. I had a collection of Vdubs in the day and the 63 bug was the oldest with the smallest engine but went the fastest. top speed 70 MPH completely stock what a fun little car.
1963 thru 1967. All the moving machinery is interchangeable, they still have the old look, but the 66 thru 67 have better front brakes and ball joints can be a plus . I've got a two liter 63 with tons of classic but custom hotrod parts . Also a 66 also with a big 2 liter dual Webers etc Baja bug absent 5 wide ansen sprint wide wheels that everyone loves. They all have their good points.
My choice would be '71, which was the first year for the Super Beetle and 1600cc engine. Had mine for 7 years before selling it to a friend of a friend. That was nearly 40 years ago and I STILL miss that car. What a fun and enjoyable vehicle to own - even if I needed an ice scraper for the INSIDE of the windshield in wintertime. 😆
Had a 63 that got stolen, then a 68. The 63 was definitely the better car. This was all back in the early 80’s before the prices went through the roof. I can remember buying a brand new bumper at the dealer for $13!!
1967. Without doubt. 1500cc engine, larger flywheel, relocated voltage regulator, higher differential ratio, 12 volt electrics. Ours would do 85mph; our 1200cc models would max at 72-73mph.
..I love them, but I have no desire to go any faster than 70mph in a vintage Beetle anyways..more about the fun of driving and cruising in them..if I want to go fast, I'll buy a modern Mustang or Challenger...
Between my wife and I, we’ve owned five Volkswagen cars…1962 blue ragtop /1965 blue/1967 white/1970 red bugs and a tan 1982 Jetta diesel. My undisputed favorite was my white 1967 bug.
Friend's parents drove a '58 in the 1980s. My Mom liked them, first car in '67 or so. Drove a '67 1300 briefly in the mid '90s. Mom's nostalgia cruiser.
My favorite was the 1966 which i had. I actually bought it with a bad title and had settled on a 1964, even though i wanted a 66. When i started buying parts for it i learned happily that it was actually a 1966. And i was actually able to fill out my registration as 1966 and no one double checked so the title i got issued was accurate. 2nd favorite was 1967, but i like the headlights of the 1966 better, they still have that classic setback that has a 30's look. In this video they call it the Porsche headlight. Completing the 6 volt to 12 volt conversion was a lot of fun, although blowing about 6 voltage regulators until i gave up and converted from a generator to an alternator was a bit frustrating. Thankfully my brother worked at an Air force base as a Mechanic and was able to tool a small metal riser to give the throttle clearance without modifying the carb, which also meant i had to deop the oil bath air filter and switch to a lower profile paper air filter. Damn, that was a great car. I miss Lorelei and hope someone fixed her up later on and she's still on the roads.
For freeway/interstate driving in the US, the godsend for the air-cooled flat-four VW Beetles was when the US enacted the 55 mph [89 km/h] national speed limit in 1974. I had a '67 Beetle at the time, where that speed limit was truly the _sweet-spot_ for the engine speed. Fuel mileage was great, too, having achieved up to 35 mpg on occasion.
My first car in 67 was a 54 beetle. Great fun split rear window. Both indicator arms would pop out and light up at 60mph. Clutch cable broke but easily drove it for days without the clutch. Forgetting that already changed to reserve fuel .... Great fun driving in snow... Had a 61 but the 54 I enjoyed more because it was my first.
My favorite year for the beetle would be 1963. I like everything about that year. 1967’s are great too,but I like the old style headlights with the large glass covers and the older decklid and tail light designs.
I have most gorgeous show car 63 in world 🌎
Yeah the popes nose is a classic look. 67 is a great all rounder but compromises too much. Plus Herbie is 63 and that’s the most important factor.
I know the definitive Best VW Beetle bug!
It’s the one you fell in love with when you were a teenager
I had a 63 bug, a 69 bug, a 70 bug, and a 73 bug. All were great little cars. Also, I had a 69 fastback and a 72 squareback. I could pull the engine out by myself and have in on the bench in a little over an hour. Great vehicles. My 73 had fuel injection and got great fuel economy. I'm 70, and I remember the great fall VW commercials every fall introducing the new bug, "Volkswagon does it again."
very cool
I am born in ‘55 but fell for the 1966 1300. Last of the real classic beetle covered headlights, the flattened hubcaps that reflect front suspension changes, and the reliable 1300 engine that did not seem to be overworked. Throw in a sliding steel sunroof with a Golde hand crank and I’m in love. I won’t let my wife know!
Had 3 1966 bugs my fave! one upgraded to 1600 dual port with Weber carbs!
1966 was a great year. Like you say, the last year before the great headlight change! The 1300 was a great engine. Now I can't remember if it was the first year or the last year that they ran the camshaft directly on the induction hardened case. But it was reliable in any event. The busses always introduced the next sized engines a year earlier than the Beetles. So my 66 Bus had a 1500 engine like the '67 Beetle. But I liked that the 66 said 1300 on the rear deck lid. I think the only year to do that, I'm not sure.
I've had four bugs. 1970, 1965, 1969, and the one I have now a 1967. I was lucky to find the 67. I was doing a job at a persons home when I noticed the neighbor open his garage door, and there set this completely refurbished 1967, new paint, new engine, etc etc etc everything had been done. Body off chassis the works. I approached the owner who was an elderly gentleman, and started a conversation on how I was looking for a new Bug. He wasn't looking to sell at the time, but I gave him my card, and told him I'd pay cash. A month later he called me, we got together, he wanted $10,000 I offered $6,500. he asked me if I had a garage to put it in, and I said yes, he said yes, and I had the 67 VW! Since buying it five years ago I have replaced many after market parts with genuine German factory parts which I found with quite a bit of online, and driving to old VW repair shops. I have all original German glass except for the windshield, and I'm still looking for that, and the front hood I believe was an after market hood, and it doesn't fit as tight as it should so I am still looking for a 67 hood. Other then that I am almost complete with returning it to all German specs approx. 90%. Love driving in around the city, and people giving me the peace sign, what a hoot!
thats awesome, I would love to see this car.
The best beetle has the least rust
So many dealers then sold fake rust-proofing too! If a beetle was treated correctly underneath it kept the battery and engine compartment and the belly pan from rusting as quickly. Ive seen them with and without it and the difference is obvious.
Amen
SO very true
@Nova Jayceon you are right, no one gives a s***.
Bull and it's entire shit.
My first car was a used 67 I bought used in 1973. I paid $1200 for it, had a two inch view as my defroster was an ice scraper I used on the inside in the blizzards of 1977 and 1978. The gas cap was under the hood, which was fun to fill in the rain. It had a hole under the steering wheel floorboard, which would splash me with rain and slush in my face. No radio, but it held all my worldly possessions when I moved.
I grew up around these beetles. I agree 1967 was the best.I love these engine sound. Its music to my ears
The best year of bug to own is either the one you want to have or maybe the one you already have or have had.
No doubt the 1967. Not just because I owned several I flipped the odometer 6 times in my driving bug. John Muir said "be kind to your ass as it bears you". No doubt you love your bug it'll love you back.
My first car was a 1961 Volkswagen beetle bug. I really like the way it drives on the road. Steering was so responsive. It was so much fun to turn it on and be able to go anywhere I wanted. I miss it I want another one
The average person can't tell the difference between a '59 and a '72. They just see a bug and say "cool!" Worrying about the little differences is really an enthusiast game. What I'm not a fan of is the cliquey snobbery. Not everyone can fork out $$$$ for a split window. I love my early '63 ragtop, but my previous bug was a '71 superbeetle and it was a great car to drive. Love 'em all, they're all classics at this point. The youngest beetle in the U.S. is turning 40 this year.
Omg you hit the nail on the head....the 67 and earlier crowd love to prance around like and talk down to you as if they were all Thurston Howell the 3rd 😋
@@johnteill_ IKR. I have a '72 Super Beetle, and they ask me that is the chassis a roller with the body off. I said "Yes, because us Super owners figured a way to make them a roller", then I come back with "Is your chassis a roller with the transmission removed?".
When I take my '66 sedan out for a ride and someone tries to guess the year they are always off by 5 years or more. The guess I get the most is 1979.
I have a 92 beetle
I got a ‘71 Super Beetle in the process of restoring right now!
1967 In my opinion is the best year. First year of the 12 volt system, larger engine, and still looked old school.
Huey The No-Gooder You’re absolutely right.
My 1969 euro Bug is like the 67. They looked like that until 1970 here
I had a new '67. It was the best ever!!
Except for the boring headlights
I had an original paint 67, with the little 12v sticker on the door, it's the one you want.
When my wife and I got married (many many years ago) we both had Beetles. She had a '67 and I had a '70 and we loved them both. I wish we had kept one of them.
The wife or one of the beetles? (Smiley here)
"keep the dream alive" that's right! let's keep the vw's on the road with the help from the community!
I had a 70’ bug. Max was the best car ever! $1998 delivered to the house. That beautiful dark green color. He never failed to start…even at 30 below. It even had it’s original battery when I sold it to a friend at 138.000 miles, who drove another 20.000 miles before northeast rust took him away. Everything I learned about repairs came from this hippie guy book…”VW repairs for the complete idiot” or something like that. Very funny and informative. My mom had a 67’ Ghia in a Caribbean blue…beautiful! Nice video thanks.
Love my 67. Going on 3 years with it
Want to sell it.
67
Best looking year, enjoy it !!!!
i learned to drive in a 67. it was new and I was nearly new. good times.
Hands down 67. It was my first VW bought used in1972. Loved it.
Just love old vw bugs can’t get enough of them
You just made our day... Me and my wife just bought our first VW project. One owner, all original 1967 Beetle. We have since heard about its uniqueness. Oh, and the previous owners added VintageAir A/C...
Oh wow thats awesome! If you need help give me a shout.
I have had my 67 since 1985!
I only play 1971 songs in my 1971 beetle and the hits in 71' are hard to beat,...."its to late"- Carol King, " help me make it through the night"- Sammi Smith, "wild world"- Cat Stevens and "me and Bobby Mcgee" by Janis Joplin just to name a few. 😉
that is awesome! what a great idea. I gotta make a video on that.
1967 Bug has been the one to own since the 70s. Nice to see that noting has changed. I had a '71 Super Beetle that got me through college. Never left me hanging, but it wasn't the most relaxing vehicle to drive, especially long distances. Always amazed me how far that car could go in snow before you had to install the chains...
I would love a 67 beetle when I can only choose a stock one. If I may mix and match I want a hard dash, updated electrical system, 12V system and a CD player (for ease of use) at least 40 horsepower. the floors may be welded as long as its solid. Body shouldn't be rusted trough, but spots are acceptable for me.
I really like how a beetle isn't just a car, its a piece of culture, almost a lifestyle
Give me a shout, I'll find one for ya.
Thank you. Although I finally beat the Bug in my 20s, I have now been bitten by the Bug in my 60s.
I have only one Beetle…. Got him last August for my 40th birthday! I always wanted a classiv vw bug…. It’s a 1984 mexican…and I love him to bits…even if I could ever buy another one I will keep my “Dagobert” forever! He is the best bug because he is mine ^1
Australia here:
We never got a "67", it was "old-school" 1300 from 66 - 68.
The one thing OZ never got were the hinged backseat side windows.
I worked for V/W from June 1966 to August 1986 and I loved them all and yes there was problems through all of those years.
Case studs pulling, C/V joint's popping, Fuel injection problems, ball joints, and electrical problems and the list goes on they made some dumb mistakes but I loved them all I owned several Karmann ghia several bugs and a van and I never bought a New one. I could find somany used ones at a giveaway price.
Someone mentioned 6 volt systems and I could fix that problem permanent fix. But if you want 12 volt accessories you can change it over but you still need to change some problems.
Regards; Phillip C.
Before I started the vid I said 67, because I had one as well as many other years, 2 Ghias and 1 Bus. It was a great car.
My first bug was a 65 and my dad purchased it when I turned 16, it was great, had a stock sunroof and I pretty much made it into a cal look, dropped, one piece windows, louvers. I loved that car in high school. Growing up in Southern California, my mom had a 71 with the automatic shift purchased brand new. So many memories listening to AM radio and hanging out with my mom as a kid. In 77 dad purchased a white on white convertible super bug and it was special. It was given to me as my college car and I basically kept it stock but lowered the stance slightly and had the chrome hubcaps with 50 series tires. It was a looker and I kept it clean. Sold it to go to school in Switzerland. I love bugs but when I first laid my eyes on a 356 speedster that was dropped, it took my heart away. Would have loved to have had a notchback or a ghia but if I had a choice, a 64' 356SC would be my upgrade. Cheers!
67 was my favorite, for all the reasons you stated. including those chrome backup lights
The backup lights were great feature.
67 all day long. Both Bug and Bus. 12 volt system changed the entire experience. Bigger engines. Last old style split window in the bus and pretty much old style body on the bug. The quintessential Pivotal model year. Values agree.
Individual favs may vary.
I want a 67 beetle or convertible superbeetle. My dad had a 67 and we loved that car. My dad would go out in the garage and wax the thing until it looked like a mirror. Then we would take a ride on Saturdayand I would look out the side window and watch the world go by in the reflexion of the fender. Awesome!
One thing I have to keep in mind is that the superbeetles have provisions for AC, and I live in AZ. I also like the modified beetles with Porsche rims and wide fenders from and rear.
ken cohagen if you can find a 67 super beetle better grab it, very rare.
I've always loved the beetles but the 68-72 with the tombstone taillights has a special place for whatever reason, that's always been a dream car of mine haha
Lay off the crack poor, dude.
I almost bought a '61 but ended up with a nice '67 bug with a 1600 dual port engine. I'm glad I did!
I grew up working on beetles but never really owned one until 2010 when I bought my 58 convertible. I didn't really want a convertible but it was so cheap I snapped it up. I never regretted it one minute. I daily drive it in the Summer months here on the East Coast and it never disappoints.
Great analogy of which is the best year Beetle. I just got my 65 yesterday. It is the ultimate bug to me because it has been in our family since late 1964. My mother was the original owner, sold it to her sister (my aunt) in 66 because my aunt rolled hers hydroplaning on the freeway and needed a car to get to work. She drove it as her daily all over LA until 2013 up to the age 90.
She passed on and my cousin, her son has been using it until now.
Many things have happened including being stolen once and on another occasion T-boned in the drivers door which was replaced.
It needs a full cosmetic restoration but drives great. I just love it so much, very fun and I'm Ford GT owner among others and even though the bug is not fast, it still gives me the same feel of driving satisfaction and smiles per miles.
You are 100% spot on! I’ve had 3 bugs. A 1965 bought in 1968 in perfect shape I drove while in the army,
Did nothing to it except chug oil and adjustment of the valves every 3k Miles. It was great.
I bout another when out of Army in 1970.... it was a cherry 1965 bug. I overhauled it and it was perfect in every way.
Around 1975 purchased a super beetle, but didn’t like it as much as the 1965.
HOWEVER.... I always yearned for the 1967. The 12 volt was worth it for brighter lights, but NEVER had a problem
starting and driving the 1965. When windy, you’d better slow down! However I still,remember driving a stock 1965 80MPH
(Stupidly) on the highway. Would love to one day have the 1967. It was also last to have the fence bumpers!
I learned to drive in a 1958 beetle in 1965. My father had bought the car new, and was used by my mother until she decided she wanted a car with automatic transmission, power steering and air conditioning. It was just sitting in my house when I was learning how to drive...I used it for about three years, until my sister, who had bought a 1966 (1300), left for graduate school in 1968. I preferred the new, much more powerful car, leaving the 1958 unused until a friend of a neighbor made my father an offer. Very pleasant memories.
For sure hands down the 1967 was the best beetle ever made i've owned em all when they came out with the 68 that was the begining of the end. By the way you did a real nice job with your presentation.
Thx. I'm glad you pretty much went straght into it. At least now I have a reference to work on for my search. At 1:21 OMG! It's so beautiful.
Ha very cool
Best daily drivers were Superbeetles, not the car show favorite but drive ability and space makes it a great cruiser.
Two things you forgot about the '67, both one year only period. The door knobs, and the bacukp lights. The backup lights survived though the 70's on the Type 2, but on the bug, were integrated into the taillights. I had a '67, but I think '70 is my next favorite. Good video.
The 1967 Beetle that I had 20 years and put 600-700 thousand on my driving log. Unique parts as I recall: Door locks, window wind up mechanism, front fenders, brown electrical central circuit box, Sapphire V or was it IV radio, rear engine lid. Quartz Halogen lights that attach to rear bumper. Transmission had a switch for these backup lights. When I replaced the transmission no switch on that transmission. I made a mechanical switch under the dashboard. Hubcaps 66/67 for the two year only steel rims.1500 motor that everyone traded up to a 1600. I had many many engines. Inside of 1500 engine cases I heard the crank support webbing may have been different? Maybe the windshield wiper motor setup was special? Grab handle over the glove box door may have been different? A special plate that went around the lower large pulley was special I believe. Most people tossed them out as they thought they were unnecessary. I had mine which surprised some people. I think it was there to control the fan belt if it broke. Without it a broken fan belt would whip around awhile knocking off the fuel line drenching the distributor and often result in an engine fire. Ever seen a beetle with a black spot on the engine lid? Now you know. That's all I can remember at the moment. Valve adj. every 3,000 miles. I was adjusting them every month! When I went to Florida from California I did them along side the road once going and once coming back cross country. What a pain!
56-57 is a sweet year. Good looking, great craftmanship. Good engines. Honestly the best year is the one you can afford. I got 52-56-58-68-70 and I love the 68 the most. 68 euro is like 67 US. First year 12 volt.
Loved my 68’. Had a 73 Super Beetle when I lived in Germany, couldn’t believe how fast this thing would go on the Autobahn!
My first and only was a ‘73. I was still very young but I loved it and hated parting with it. Now I’d give anything to have it back!
I've owned several Beetles, including a '66, '67 and a '71. I preferred the '71, especially once I upgraded it to dual carbs, a 009 distributor, J-tubes, and a header, to give it a bit more power. They had the dog house oil cooler, which ran much cooler where I live, in South Florida. Also the double jointed rear axles ride much better than the earlier single jointed swing axles. A buddy had a '73 Super Beetle that we tricked out similarly to mine, and I must admit that the ride quality with the front MacPherson struts was even better than my '71. No more being blown into another lane when there was a wind gust, or when passed by a large truck. Also the added frunk and interior cabin space was a godsend.
You had a 1971 beetle or super beetle? Because I'm pretty sure the 1971 super beetle had Macpherson struts.
@@timsgta I had a standard '71 Beetle, my buddy had the '73 Super. There were definitely significant upgrades to the '73 Super over my '71. Mine had a flat windscreen like all other beetles, and different seats that were identical (or nearly) to the 68-70 Beetles, while my friend's bug had a curved windscreen and seats that were much different than mine. Like I said, his rode much better than mine did, especially at highways speeds where his was much more stable and less prone to being blown into another lane by the wind.
from a safety engineering standpoint, and just working off memory
67 got rid of the dangerous swinging axle to double joint suspension, it had front disks and better rollover protection in a stronger body shell
12 volt system meant it had more useful lights that worked especially in highway and adverse weather, and the reangled headlights just worked better
No, I wasn't born in 1967 but I graduated from high school that year. This is just the icing on the cake for this model being my favorite with the 12V system, 1500 cc engine, dashboard and other things.
Thanks for your opinion on this and for your videos!
Great video. 67 was the first with the new headlight, and the only, and the last with standalone backup lights. 68 and were all built in with the tail lights, and the door handles are one year only.
I loved mine and any year after the demise of the split screen variants would please me. They were brilliant. Simple, ultra reliable and fun to drive. OK so they'd never win any prizes for being fast but that makes no difference to the fun factor. When I was stationed in Germany I saw a Porsche try to drag start away from the lights only to be overtaken and pulled in by a Police beetle , gave me a smile for the rest of the day.
I have a 77 std beetle, everybody trashes my car, I say to each his own, at least mine isn’t a super, and I’m having fun learning...plus side, I have a nice freeway flyer AND I’m not afraid to drive it every day. Have fun with your stuff man!!!
Mines a '74 Super, I love my fatgirl!
Had a '54 , '59 , 60 , 63 , 64 ,(2) '65s , 66 , and a 1970 Beetles I really did Like them all .
A 1966 is the best, second place is 1967. and all of the other ones are still cool. had to add this. 1966 after 12 volt upgrade. my 66 had a few 67 12 volt parts, including the transaxle and all of the other parts that fit.
1967 is great if you want an older-look beetle. But I actually prefer the 1968. That was the year that they went to an external fuel filler, which is much more convenient, and I like the taller front seats, for comfort as well as safety. You do get the new style bumbers and dash, but it still has a lot of character and looks vintage today (as it should, being over 50 years old!).
But I'm probably prejudiced because my first car was a 1968 convertible :)
My beloved put a ragtop sunroof on a 65 beetle. The body is great. No rust. My son and I took over the restoration and painted it black. We installed all the windows ourselves. We got a new ragtop for it. The motor is fine but I don't know the specifics. New tires, nice wheels. Nice original chrome.The interior is complete but the seats have some rips. That is my task now. What a fun family project.
In January 1973 I found My 1969 Red Beetle , sitting quite lonely on a Porsche dealer used car lot in Rockville, Md.
The bug looked new , and had 26,389 miles . Ran like a dream for years and years.
I paid $1,150 for it , and loved every minute behind the wheel .
i too had a 69, i considered it a more 'modern' bug. it was great at hiway speeds. took the entire back seat out, carpeted it from back window down - lotsa room! black with whitewalls, looked like an old coupe from the 40s...like everyone says, 'i shoulda KEPT it...'
I too, like them all but my favorite is the super bug 1302LS from 1970-72 Also the previous and later 2 years.
I’ve owned several Vw and two 67’s to many one year only parts for someone starting out. Some pre 67 can be to expensive for a beginner unless they get lucky. Further back you go the more expensive parts are and more rare parts to find. I always like the second gen or 68-72 standards. Parts are more available and cheaper and besides 68 not a whole lot of one year only parts and before they started putting emissions junk on them. This generation they made the most cars so they are more available. Yes everyone would like and early car but it might not be in their budget. On another note if you find a later model super beetle 73-79 and want to do a complete restore they do not make a complete wiring harness . 71,72 supers they do. But if you find a 73-77 standard you will be fine. An old Vw mechanic told me his best year to own was a 70 no one year only parts and single port heads so less chance of heads cracking and engine studs didn’t pull out it has a B block. I have to agree with him. I love my 59 but stuff is expensive for it. FYI
I have a 1997 VW Beetle and is amazing. So in love with it!!
I owned a 1960 VW Bug, and I was born in 1960. I thought that was cool. My Dad and I tuned it up to get over 50 mpg. That was in the late 1970s when I was in high school.
I bought a 65 in the fall of 72 for $600 and loved it . Only cost me $4 to fill the tank and it took me back and forth to school all week and still had enough gas left to go joy riding on Saturday s.
But it also loved the repair shop. The clutch cable was constantly snapping at least every 2 months and I couldn’t keep the brakes adjusted.
Whoever had it before me must have lived in a real salty area because every time I drove it in the rain the battery compartment got washed and when you came to a stop the water came sloshing forward.
Then the heater door cables rusted open and I had heat year round.
Then trying to find 6 volt light bulbs was more fun. Other than that I love d driving it
I love the 67 mexican versión it has the big front lights, tail lights small, metal dash, 1500 motor 👍😎
I bought my ‘67 project from you about 5 years ago Chris. No, it still isn’t running....BUT.....I’m almost done. Why do I like my ‘67? Low back seats, 12vt, metal dashboard, NICE BUMPERS. Very happy I decided on this year! When you get into the 50’s the prices skyrocket😳
Remember driving this car as a teenager in the late '60s. Parents and girlfriend parents both owned them.
Being a car guy at the time, found several aspects curious:
- As an air-cooled engine it was at the back of the car.
- The doors closed with an air-tight sealing effect that would almost pop your ears.
- The heater was a little lame in cold Chicago winters and slow to come up to speed compared to water-cooled cars.
Other than that, appreciated how light it was and maneuverable in snowy conditions, and miserly with fuel consumption. Tinny but sipped the gas.
I’ve owned 14 VW & 3 Audis…my favorite bug was my ‘69
My 1st car was a 1962 used red beetle with 78k miles showing on the odometer. Had no radio no heater {lived in Chicago very bad ice inside windshield wintertime}. I was a dumb almost 18 year old in 1968. The used car salesman told me I could have the red beetle OR a green and black Karman Gia convertible for $500. WHAT WAS I THINKING? Got the beetle had to replace the clutch after 2 months and eventually the brakes but I got 2 super years of work service out of before trading it in for a new Impala. But I was so impressed with how well that beetle handled the snowy Chicago streets.
Yeah they are killer in the snow!
Love my '64. Last year small windows. 1st year metal sunroof. 1 year only also!
I love em all. The best year for me is the 1978. It was my first car and I still own it.
@J.R. 48
You lucky guy!
Since yours is a 78 do you have the fuel injected motor? I’ve heard nothing but bad things about the fuel injection in the 75-79 beetles
@@wingadinga4003 I had trouble with my '76 fuel injection to the point that I had to sell the car (I was in college and needed reliable transportation ...not a classic car). My '78 is fuel injected but he is cared for by a vintage VW specialist who knows them inside and out.
There's no contest in my mind. As a former "buy only American muscle cars addict", I bought me a brand new yellow 1972 VW Beetle when I turned 30 years old. Had it for 10 fantastic years and cried like a baby when i traded it in.
Ahh that's sad man. Get another!
You are right, it is the 67! I had a 62, then a 65 while in college, a 68 on my 1st job. In 78 when I joined the AF I bought a 1970 baby blue Square-back and my last one was a 1969 white Camper, but 67 was the best year for all the reasons you mentioned.
My dream is to get a '67. At the moment my '71 is very precious to me. Love it dearly.
I owned a Baby Blue 71 VW...the engine was top notch and powerful.
I have a 66 Beetle. And I Love it..
ruclips.net/video/YCIFYR0g13o/видео.htmlsi=gEs8-8Cb-1SIYak9
I purchased a 1965 VW in early June on Long Island, NY after graduating from Lafayette College. I paid $1,675 for it. I then drove that car for ten years. The only time I could not drive it was when I lived in central Alaska when the temperature was below -20 F and the air over cooled the engine. By the end of those ten years the car had 123,000 miles on it. It was the best car that I have ever owned and I would vote for it as the best year of the VW bug!
My son is correct. He was 15 years old when he said that if he will get a beetle, it will be a 1967 and he is right. We used to have one parked in our garage. It has a 12v generator system (my uncle replaced it with a 35amp alternator), disc brakes in front, 1500cc eng and adjustable seat folding seat locks! My uncle replaced the shocks with all bilstein with coil wrap around in the rear, replaced the main jets to 148 and upped the air emulsion jets 2 notches higher. During the early80s you can still buy German wiring harness so that one was replaced during the 90s. If one comes up, I will tell my son to get it.
The parts availability for the '67 model? Well, when it comes to the front fenders, I wonder.
There's a YT post where a person in San Diego had a red '67 model that by the 21st century it was showing its age and looking very worn. VW of Mexico did a full restoration job to that '67, where it disappointedly had the front fenders replaced with an earlier era Beetle design, and not the fenders with the seal-beam headlamps.
That restoration job impressed me that the replacement front fenders for the '67 model are no longer available.
They are available still, but the tell tail sign that they are aftermarket are the placement of the front horn grills.
67'...my favorite year...but I love them all!!! Those front fenders are awesome....Love my 40 horse 67' Standard, or 'Economy beetle"
That would have been the "Custom". The higher specced one was the Deluxe.
Always a great question. My very first car was a '63 Beetle that I bought in 1974 for $250. I've owned several air cooled beetles since but the '63 was my favorite. The things I remember being significant were that it was the first year for "fresh air heating", and that it had the original style g lass covered headlights with the little marker light bulb in the housing. Sure the 12V system is desirablebvb but I wouldn't trade the classic look of the front feders with the glass covered headlights. There are other differences too, and I agree that the non-padded dash is important. The other thing that is desireable about a'67 was the ball joint front suspension. It was easier to turn than the King and Link Pin suspension. But I liked the vent wng windows with the older style lastches, but the later years had a center defroster outlet which was nice too. So like you say, different folks will choose different years according to their taste. Right now, I would love to be back in a bug. These were honest cars that had a soul. Great memories. Thanks for your video.
I got my first VW Beetle it’s a 1960 with a converted 1600 motor, 12 volt battery and front disc brakes real excited to get it as my daily driver
I have a 66 with a 57 3 fold, bullet turn signal front fenders, W decklid, and oval window, plus a 68 side gas fill opening. IMO the best of all VW worlds.
1969 was the best year. Bought it in 1972 drove it all up and down east coast twice in 1975. Started right up in sub zero temps in Maine. Loved it
Iknew as soon as I read the title . When the 67 came out the dealer told my brother - This 67 runs so much better than your 63 !
As much as I love the oval window I have been driving my 1974 Superbug since 1982. I like this model for how it drives. It’s got IRS rear suspension and macpherson strut front end, front disc brakes, safety cell body, curved windshield with great visibility and a 55amp hour alternator pumping out 12volts. It drives like a Porsche. I have also added twin Webber’s, 009 distributor with electronic ignition, bigger camshaft, high pressure oil pump and a GT exhaust system. On the suspension I have fitter koni struts and bilstien shocks on the rear as well as additional heavy duty sway bars front and back. My bug puts a smile on my face every time I drive it and makes me feel 18 again - just like when I had my first Superbug back in high school. I know purist’s whom poopoo the Superbug but I wouldn’t drive anything else.
My last VW was a 1976 standard Beetle. It may not be as collectible as the early Bugs but, it was far better as a daily driver. It has the more modern rims, a double jointed rear suspension, and all the little things that make it more practical. Keep it stock and in good order and it will be just as good as any modern compact car. It has the L-Jetronic fuel injection system which CAN be a problem but, once you figure out how to adjust the airflow meter, that engine will wake up big time! Every VW I had got the Pertronix electronic ignition conversion. That's another thing that the VW engine will love. Strong sparks and accurate timing. Autolite 275 plugs are better than the Bosch WR8AC plugs.
BTW, I had NO PROBLEM getting enough heat from the stock heater! Keep all connections airtight, inspect and patch any holes in the heater channels, and don't mess with the exhaust. It all works together and too many people fuck it all up and then complain when things aren't working right. I hate it when people put in a Bosch 009 distributor instead of getting the stock vacuum/mechanical advance distributor rebuilt. That vacuum advance is there for a reason and the 009's are never as good for street driving.
Great video. Im helping a friend restore a 72 beetle and enjoyed listening to all the subtle differences between the years
I have no idea why anybody would spend money and time restoring a 1972 super beetle.
@@socaljarhead7670 there are many cars that have been restored that I have questioned lol. Personally I don't mind the beetle but I know there are others who loath them. Just a quirk of the classic car world
i like a 63 beetle ragtop :)
Me too. 63 & older but I have only owned a 63 ragtop. Amazing car. I had a collection of Vdubs in the day and the 63 bug was the oldest with the smallest engine but went the fastest. top speed 70 MPH completely stock what a fun little car.
I had a63 with a6 volt system.. back in1977.
Me too ... you know why
@J.R. 48 Ok,but,mine was 6,volt,that's the reason ,I sold it!
let me guess, herbie?
1963 thru 1967. All the moving machinery is interchangeable, they still have the old look, but the 66 thru 67 have better front brakes and ball joints can be a plus . I've got a two liter 63 with tons of classic but custom hotrod parts . Also a 66 also with a big 2 liter dual Webers etc Baja bug absent 5 wide ansen sprint wide wheels that everyone loves. They all have their good points.
My choice would be '71, which was the first year for the Super Beetle and 1600cc engine. Had mine for 7 years before selling it to a friend of a friend. That was nearly 40 years ago and I STILL miss that car.
What a fun and enjoyable vehicle to own - even if I needed an ice scraper for the INSIDE of the windshield in wintertime. 😆
Had a 63 that got stolen, then a 68. The 63 was definitely the better car. This was all back in the early 80’s before the prices went through the roof. I can remember buying a brand new bumper at the dealer for $13!!
1967. Without doubt. 1500cc engine, larger flywheel, relocated voltage regulator, higher differential ratio, 12 volt electrics. Ours would do 85mph; our 1200cc models would max at 72-73mph.
well said
..I love them, but I have no desire to go any faster than 70mph in a vintage Beetle anyways..more about the fun of driving and cruising in them..if I want to go fast, I'll buy a modern Mustang or Challenger...
I had a '67 Beetle. Most fun driving car I ever had.
Between my wife and I, we’ve owned five Volkswagen cars…1962 blue ragtop /1965 blue/1967 white/1970 red bugs and a tan 1982 Jetta diesel. My undisputed favorite was my white 1967 bug.
Friend's parents drove a '58 in the 1980s. My Mom liked them, first car in '67 or so. Drove a '67 1300 briefly in the mid '90s. Mom's nostalgia cruiser.
My favorite was the 1966 which i had. I actually bought it with a bad title and had settled on a 1964, even though i wanted a 66. When i started buying parts for it i learned happily that it was actually a 1966. And i was actually able to fill out my registration as 1966 and no one double checked so the title i got issued was accurate.
2nd favorite was 1967, but i like the headlights of the 1966 better, they still have that classic setback that has a 30's look. In this video they call it the Porsche headlight.
Completing the 6 volt to 12 volt conversion was a lot of fun, although blowing about 6 voltage regulators until i gave up and converted from a generator to an alternator was a bit frustrating. Thankfully my brother worked at an Air force base as a Mechanic and was able to tool a small metal riser to give the throttle clearance without modifying the carb, which also meant i had to deop the oil bath air filter and switch to a lower profile paper air filter.
Damn, that was a great car. I miss Lorelei and hope someone fixed her up later on and she's still on the roads.
I’ve always loved the “olive green” oval windows & stock but then I did come home from the hospital in a 1966 back in ‘71
For freeway/interstate driving in the US, the godsend for the air-cooled flat-four VW Beetles was when the US enacted the 55 mph [89 km/h] national speed limit in 1974. I had a '67 Beetle at the time, where that speed limit was truly the _sweet-spot_ for the engine speed. Fuel mileage was great, too, having achieved up to 35 mpg on occasion.
My first car in 67 was a 54 beetle. Great fun split rear window. Both indicator arms would pop out and light up at 60mph. Clutch cable broke but easily drove it for days without the clutch. Forgetting that already changed to reserve fuel .... Great fun driving in snow... Had a 61 but the 54 I enjoyed more because it was my first.
Had to be earlier bug you had, 54 beetles had oval rear windows, not split.
We had a 68 blue bug. That’s the year mom said they were Cute. I loved the 67 also.