Marque: Volkswagen - Company History & Models - Cars By Brand
Volkswagen
Initially intended to be an inexpensive ‘people’s car’, the Volkswagen ‘Beetle’ saloon was developed during the 1930s by Dr. Ferdinand Porsche, with ‘encouragement’ from Adolf Hitler. The cars were ready for large-scale production when the Second World War intervened. Amidst the wreckage of the bombed-out Wolfsburg factory, the British officer in charge in 1945 (Major Ivan Hirst) saw…
Volkswagen Corrado
PRICE: £500-£7000 ;(Note: Top V6 models have been known to touch almost £10,000)
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1989-96 - Bodywork:
Three-door hatchback - Engine:
Overhead cam in-line four-cylinder 2.0-litre 1995cc 8 Valve 115bhp;1.8-litre 1781cc 16-Valve 136bhp1.8-litre 1781cc G60 160bhp; Storm V6 2792 cc 190bhp - 0-60 mph:
2.0: 11 sec; G60: 8.5 sec - Top Speed:
115-140mph - MPG:
20-40mpg
PAST: Big brother to Scirocco, Corrado featured a supercharged Golf GTi unit so the newcomer didn’t disappoint in performance terms. Right hand drive versions this variant were introduced in 1991.Two litre 16-valve Corrados became available in 1992, as did the potent VR6, with a sensational 2.9 V6 under the bonnet. Eight valve two-litre models were offered from 1994; special Storm featuring VR6 power and luxury trim for the final curtain call.
PRESENT: Forget the dumpy styling, Corrados were regarded as the best FWD performer of its day. Great to drive yet practical to use, Corrados seem assured of classic status, especially the G60 and VR6 variants. As a daily driver they are amazingly spacious for a 2+2.
FUTURE: Top notch Storms have been advertised for neigh five figure sums already… G60s have unique appeal.
Volkswagen 1600 (‘Type 3’)
PRICE: £300 - £4000
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1961-73 - Bodywork:
Two-door saloon estate - Engine:
Overhead valve ‘flat’ four-cylinder 1493cc 42bhp (later examples 44bhp);1584cc 65bhp - 0-60 mph:
18+ sec - Top Speed:
80+ mph - MPG:
23-30+ mpg
PAST: Interesting variation on the Beetle theme was fastback 1600 (‘Type 3’), which arrived in 1965 and followed on from initial earlier 1500 saloon, which arrived in ’61 plus also sported twin carb S and estate off-shoots. Proper 12V electrics for ’67 with semi auto option and improved rear suspension two years later. Estate versions, designated ‘Variant’ also offered. TE fastback and T Variant models (from 1970) even featured sophisticated fuel injection.
PRESENT: Look at the 1500 Saloon and the 1600 Fastback as a more refined and family-sized Beetle and you won’t go far wrong. They are usually more practical and refined, too while the 1600 has acceptable pace for modern traffic.
FUTURE: Fashion dictates that this Better Beetle has nowhere near the popularity of the proper car so it means fine value although no classic status – or likelihood.
