1978 Volkswagen Super Beetle

1978 Volkswagen Super Beetle Convertible The decision to produce the Super Beetle was going to be a costly one. Never before had Volkswagen spent so much time or money on the Beetle. The new suspension design required a new chassis and every panel in the front end had to be redesigned as well. This meant new rounder fenders, a larger wider hood, redesigned front valance, a new spare tire well, changes to other areas of the body and new inner fenders to accommodate the mounting of the new struts. This would be the most costly and extensive revision of the Beetle since it was first launched. Thx superbeetles.com For consignment, a 1978 Volkswagen Super Beetle convertible showing 94,548 miles, but the true miles are unknown due to a title exemption. This one comes with a newer canvas top, newer Empi chrome wheels, and some interior items that have also been refreshed. Exterior This big Beetle is bathed in Cobalt Blue, with a tiny touch of customization in the 15-inch Empi wheels that have been added and look great. The original wheels come with the car while a newer beige canvas top rises overhead and is in great shape with its glass window. Under it, we have the typical bug shaped with the rounded hood and sloping rear hatch, which of course covers the engine and wears louvers for ventilation. Metalwork including the bumpers, side molding, headlight rings, marker light caps, gravel guards, running board trim, and door handles, all in good condition. Imperfections include numerous paints chips and scratches, some touched up, bubbling and peeling paint at the base of the engine cover and rear apron, small paint inclusions, areas of orange peel, peeling paint and surface rust on edge of running board, and heavy dimpling and staining on right front fender. Interior Beige vinyl door cards begin our tour of the clean interior inside and classic black VW hardware adorn each door and a pleated map pocket is included. The beige vinyl bucket seat covers are super clean and exhibit the weave pattern synonymous with Beetles and the rear bench is equally as nice. A Wolfsburg logo is stamped into the steering wheel which leads to a single gauge with speed, fuel, and odometer. The mid dash takes in various toggles, indicator lights, and a JVC AM/FM/CD radio, all framed in black plastic while a chrome balled Empi shifter shines bright in the center console over black ribbed carpet while the front trunk utilizes a rubberized mat for protection. Drivetrain In back, we have a fuel injected 1585cc flat 4 cylinder, rated at 48 horsepower and mated to a 4-speed manual transaxle that keeps power in back with 3.875 gears. We've seen a lot of showy VW engine bays but this one present in refreshing stock configuration. Undercarriage Generally clean underneath with some light patina and surface rust in the usual spots and belly pan paint flaking. A single exhaust flows through a stock style muffler and exits through a chrome tip. New brakes graces the drum brakes at front and rear and also at both ends is independent suspension that includes Macpherson struts in front and semi trailing arms in back. Drive-Ability The familiar sound of a Beetle fills the receiving area as we start the flat four and row our way onto the test loop where the car performs flawlessly, allowing the 48 horses to propel the car at leisure while providing all of the fun Beetles are capable of. A simple car for the masses, all functions operate as they should on this well sorted '78. While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase. If you're wondering what car to get into the classic world, how about one that's been produced more than any other and to this day, has a fervent following and aftermarket support. The Super Beetle is your personal red carpet invitation into the world of classic cars, and this one is cl