24136 ... Volkswagen 1300 Beetle (1966)Tamiya - [TA 24136]
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TAMIYA
Even in this age of sophistication, the popularity of the
Volkswagen
"Beetle" has not diminished. The original design dates back to the
1930's when Dr. Ferdinand Porsche provided the design framework for the
"People's Car."
Today, with more than 20 million
units produced, the Volkswagen Beetle has become a symbol of
mass-produced motorization, with no other vehicle exceeding this
figure. Built upon the sturdy platform chassis is the amazingly
reliable air cooled, flat-four cylinder engine. Suspension is four
wheel independent for crisp handling and driving comfort. Although the
onset of the Second World War greatly hindered Volkswagen's marketing
opportunities, it made a superb comeback shortly following the
conflict, under the skillful guidance of Heinrich Nordhoff. Throughout
its production life, the Volkswagen was continuously improved to meet
modern automobile standards. An enlarged powerplant displacement and
better visibility are two of the notable changes that enabled the
Beetle to set standards for the compact car market, decade after
decade.
The 1966
Volkswagen model is regarded as the classic Beetle, one that retains
the most of the original design traits, and it has become a collector's
item. Even today, more than half a century later, watching a nimble
street bug is still a pleasant sight to behold, and its unmistakable
shape will likely delight generations to come.