The Volkswagen Beetle is a symbol of automotive history. The first generation of the Volkswagen Beetle was built from 1938 to 2003, impressing not only with its longevity but also with its simple and functional design. Developed under the leadership of Ferdinand Porsche and engineer Erwin Komenda, the focus was on affordability and easy maintenance. Powered by an air-cooled four-cylinder boxer engine, the Volkswagen Beetle offered 25 horsepower at its debut. With a top speed of around 62 mph and a low consumption of 35 mpg, the car was particularly economical.
The Volkswagen Beetle had several technical features that set it apart from other vehicles of its time. The air-cooled rear engine was resistant to overheating, which was particularly advantageous in hot climates. The chassis consisted of a front axle with torsion bar suspension and a swing axle at the back, providing balanced suspension and damping. Thanks to its robust construction and simple design, the Volkswagen Beetle could be reliably used even in rural and remote areas. Before its appearance, the Type 82e was the most commonly used platform that later evolved into the Beetle. It's interesting to note that the Volkswagen Beetle served as the basis for many modified versions and special editions, including famous ones like Herbie.
In the field of motorsports, the Volkswagen Beetle achieved remarkable success. Despite its originally modest performance, the Beetle was modified by many enthusiasts for various motorsport disciplines. Especially in the 1960s and 1970s, the Volkswagen Beetle was frequently used in rallies and off-road races. Drivers like Toivonen and Waldegård utilized modified versions of the Beetle for their rally adventures. Its reliability and easy maintenance made it a popular choice for long-distance and endurance races.
Some of the most famous drivers who were active with the Volkswagen Beetle in motorsports are Björn Waldegård and Hannu Mikkola. Both of them led the Beetle to numerous victories in various rally events. The adaptability of the vehicle meant that it was suitable for many racing conditions, from smooth asphalt roads to challenging off-road tracks. This versatility contributed to the Volkswagen Beetle being popular not only on the racetracks but also as a strong supporter in the automotive community.
The 1/43 scale model car produced by Oxford Diecast represents the Volkswagen Beetle in its classic look. This model, part of the collection of Modelly member "mmuellerb," is an excellent example of detailed miniatures. In the photos, it is seen in a white color, adorned with racing stripes in blue and red, as well as the iconic number 53 on the hood and doors. The paintwork and decals are cleanly and precisely applied, contributing to a realistic appearance. The model also showcases the small and compact style of the original Volkswagen Beetle, including the distinctive headlights and characteristic shapes.