Original Volkswagen Beetle with NOS

The Volkswagen Beetle was designed to handle well, perform under strenuous conditions, and last a very long time but it's not considered a fast car in stock form. However, with the right modifications the Volkswagen Beetle is totally capable of attaining a fast car status. The original prototype Beetle was first built in 1935 under a collaborative effort by Ferdinand Porsche and Zundapp which was referred to as the Porsche type 12. There were only three of these prototypes and all three were lost during the Stuttgart bombing raids of World War II. Then finally in 1933 Adolf Hitler ordered that a "people's car" or Volks-Wagen be built. Capable of carrying two adults and three children at a constant speed of 62 miles per hour, the legend was born. 
 

Beetle technology has change a lot since the original inception during the Nazi regime, but the standards of the vehicle are still obvious. A small bubble shape with low center of gravity and extra wide wheel base creates an incredibly well handling vehicle. The tall passenger cab helps pivot the vehicles weight during a turn to the appropriate wheel, to increase traction based upon turn.

Modifying the Volkswagen Beetle is a very simple process, thanks to the flat four cylinder engine and ample working space. The entire engine is a basic bolt on setup, allowing for even the most novice mechanic to perform what most consider advanced modifications. Changing the pistons, heads, headers, manifolds, and adding forced induction is very easy on the Beetle as compared to other German sports cars like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and Porsche. Purpose built Beetles are the ultimate in compact performance. Anything from a baja to a drag racer can be built out of a Volkswagen Beetle! Enjoy the following footage of a drag racing Beetle tearing up the strip with a rich display of afterfire.

Video content: Volkswagen Beetle drag racing


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Source: Tampa Sports Car Examiner