The dawn of the 1970s saw Volkswagen preparing for the water-cooled, front-wheel-drive Golf/Rabbit. However, VW also invested in upgrading the iconic Beetle to maintain its competitiveness. This led to the development of the Super Beetle for the 1971 model year, a significant evolution designed to rival American compacts like the Ford Pinto and Chevrolet Vega.
The Super Beetle offered substantial improvements over its predecessor. Most notably, it featured a curved wraparound windshield, a McPherson strut front suspension for improved handling, and disc brakes for enhanced stopping power. Further refinements included air conditioning and, eventually, fuel injection. Visually, the Super Beetle retained its unmistakable Volkswagen identity but boasted a three-inch longer body (all ahead of the windshield), a longer hood, and reshaped fenders. This redesign resulted in an 80% increase in front luggage space, and the spare tire was relocated to a flat position on the floor. The rear suspension also benefited from the double-jointed half shafts initially designed for the 1967 AutoStick models.
While global VW sales rose to 1,284,928 vehicles in 1971, U.S. sales dipped to 331,191, including a record-breaking 12,201 Cabriolets. The base 1971 Beetle, still equipped with torsion bar front suspension, was priced at $1780. The Sunroof Beetle cost $1989, and the Cabriolet increased to $2299. The new Super Beetle debuted at $1899.
Underpinning the Super Beetle was a new floorplan incorporating the McPherson strut front suspension and the familiar 60 bhp, 1585 cc dual-port engine. The optional air conditioning, priced at $267, proved popular among buyers. Volkswagen proudly touted 89 improvements in the new model, which was not only longer but also wider, yet boasted a tighter turning circle. Larger drum brakes were standard, with disc brakes available as an option. Road tests conducted by magazines at the time reported a 0-60 mph time of 16 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 19.8 seconds at 65 mph. The Super Beetle presented a compelling blend of classic Volkswagen charm and modern engineering advancements.
