Words and Photos: Gary Rosier
Richard LaPorte of Port Orange, Florida is now the proud owner of this 1970 Volkswagen. Not just ANY VW, but one that has been modified to an owner's taste mechanically with a touch of cool modern amenities. Sure it will do burnouts and handles like a little go-kart, all characteristics uncommon to any stock VW. That's the point - something wild and crazy but not all that unusual actually, as there are quite a few VW's that have been modified to this extent and more.
The Beetle, or "Bug" as it has been affectionately named, came about pre WWII actually. Its horsepower rating was originally 25hp, eventually succeeded by a more potent engine until 40hp was the norm in its early years. Of course, its four cylinder air-cooled engine was rear mounted and rear wheel driven. With over 21 million produced, it is the most manufactured car of any single platform EVER made.
Fast forward to this VW however, which now sports a Chevy 350/350 combo. It's an HO (high output) Chevy crate motor with an aluminum intake and Holley 4brl carburetor. A Turbo 350 with shift kit and Lokar shifter selects the gear to get her moving. Power is transmitted back via a shortened driveshaft to a Ford 9 inch rear end with 3:50 gears. Four wheel disc brakes at all four corners bring this little bug to a safe stop.
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The chassis was configured and built by Pro Bug to accommodate the V-8 and running gear. A Mustang II front end with a ladder bar and coil over rear helps to plant those meaty 295/50R15 Hankook's. 205/50R15's mounted on Trans/Am 15x7's up front round out the rolling stock.
Refinements include a Lokar brushed aluminum shifter, Ron Lummas rear wing, perfectly molded and custom dash housing, a full set of AutoMeter gauges, Ididit tilt column with a 14 inch Banjo steering wheel, Sony CD AM/FM stereo with custom rear NOS tank speaker and custom side view mirrors are all scattered about for the eye to scan and take in.
The car was painted a House of Colors Sonic Gold and then clear-coated. Custom headers emit the exhaust gasses through a two inch system back to the dual Flowmaster mufflers. An aluminum four core radiator with electric fan keeps the car's running gear cool. There is no A/C for the occupants, except for the breeze the car makes at speed down the highway - and it does take you from A to B QUICKLY! The tan interior carpeting contrasts nicely with the custom black bucket seats, and the car is actually quite comfortable to drive, as the seats are set back from their normal configuration.
Richard has always loved decals and hot rods of all varieties. Rich grew up in the early days of hot rodding and drag racing, but is interested in all kinds of racing in ANY form. That's what appealed to him about this VW - it's different, its FAST and well built. He enjoys driving it to all the local car shows and it's as reliable as anything he's owned. It turns heads wherever he goes!
VW's are wildly popular no matter what kind of condition they're in. I'm sure the purists may cringe a bit, but there's no doubt where this VW's heart is. Its custom gleaming paint, classic VW design, and rummpity rump of a V-8 will definitely get your attention. It's one Beetle that's well "juiced" and built to command your respect!
