Beetles are iconic cars that have been around since 1938. The Beetle has been noted to be the longest running car in existence. In 1971, Volkswagen (Bettle manufacturer), came up with another model which they called the Super Beetle. These cars have attracted a lot of followers. To date, there are several enthusiasts who have set up different clubs focused on their love for either the Beetle or the Super Beetle. To get a clearer picture on the differences between the two, continue reading this article.
Summary Table
| Beetle | Super Beetle |
| Shorter in length | 3.2 inches longer |
| Narrower in width | 1.4 inches wider |
| Weighs a little less | Weighs 100 lbs. heavier |
| Less storage space | Provides 43% more storage space |
| Has a front torsion bar suspension | Has a MacPherson strut front suspension |
Definitions
The Beetle or the standard Beetle is a car produced by Volkswagen in 1938. Apart from “Beetle,” the name “Bug” was also quickly embraced by the public. In terms of size, the Beetle is shorter and narrower than most of the other cars in the market. It also has less storage space. The standard Beetle is equipped with a front torsion bar suspension.
The Super Beetle was introduced in 1971 to help Volkswagen compete with other more technologically advanced car models in the market. This new Bug has a slightly different look and now has a MacPherson strut front suspension. It also provides its owners more storage space.
Beetle vs Super Beetle
The main differences between the standard Beetle and the Super Beetle are in the front suspensions as well as the storage space. Standard Beetles have front torsion bar suspensions, while Super Beetles are equipped with MacPherson strut front suspensions and coil spring set ups. Due to this change, the ride quality and turning radius is improved, which was very evident in road tests. In terms of storage space, the Super Beetle is 43% more roomy than the standard Beetle.
When it comes to the overall body size, the Super Beetle is just 3.2 inches longer, 1.4 inches wider, and 100 pounds heavier than the standard Beetle. Nonetheless, the slight increase in length allowed the spare tire to be stored flat in the trunk. With the spare tire out of the way, owners have more space for groceries or luggage. With the standard Beetle, on the other hand, the spare tire takes up a lot of the storage space.
There were also subtle adjustments in physical appearance. The Super Beetle has a different design in terms of fenders, apron and hood. It also has a curved windshield and a flatter roof line compared to the standard Beetle.
A Short History of the Volkswagen Beetle
Not many people are aware of the Beetle’s history, which is incredibly interesting! The history of these adorable little cars starts in 1934. Ferdinand Porsche developed a design for a car for the people. He gave his design to Hitler, who approved Porsche’s design.
The first Beetles were made in 1938. The Germans built a new factory for these cars; however, as the war developed, the factory was soon put to work for the war effort. Later, it was practically bombed to smithereens. The next cars were not produced for civilians until 1947, when the new Volkswagen factory was built in Wolfsburg, Germany.
The first cars made after WWII were called the “Volkswagen Type 1.” The company’s marketing department called the car “the people’s car,” which is what “Volkswagen” means in German. But over time, people started calling the cars the “Beetle,” due to its shape and appearance. The first two units of the Beetle were sold in the US in 1949.
When the Volkswagen company formed Volkswagen of America, the Beetle soon became a big hit in the US. By the 1960s, four new models were introduced in the US.
It was in 1970 when the first Super Beetle was made in Wolfsburg, Germany. This new and improved model was made until 1975. After this, they developed a convertible Beetle that lasted through 1980.
From its beginning until now, the Volkswagen Beetle has remained a popular small car. Many movies have been made using these cars, and many high school grads’ first car was a Beetle!
Fortunately, Beetles are still with us today. There’s much speculation about whether Volkswagen will make new EV versions of the Beetle!
