One of the best advantages of off-roading a Super Beetle is that you are not chopping up a vintage VW, which many argue should be restored. In any case, I like the model.
The Project - Objectives
1) Replace the 1600cc stock engine with a 2110cc powerplant,
and new, beefier transmission for low end power as well as highway
speeds.
2) Make the body/frame/suspension off-road equipped.
3) Rework the interior for comfort and function.
4) Complement the new Baja with a paint and decal job worthy of my
skills.
The first thing to be done with the Super Beetle is to bring the front end to its best. You could just chop off the front and replace the MacPherson-Strut suspension. But you might as well get a pre-1971 VW Beetle for cheap. Instead, add a sway bar and a Super Beetle strut tie bar. The sway bar improves handling under cornering, and the EMPI tie bar goes across the top of the struts and strengthens the MacPherson-Strut suspension. Added KYB gas-charged shocks, and replaced bushings, ball joints, tie rod and ends. Added a rebuilt steering box and disk brakes (replacing drum brakes). Ka-ching!
Click 1st Step: BODY
