ORIGIN OF THE BEETLE: Originally part of Hitler's dream to supply a car to the masses of the third Reich. A vehicle that the average working class German family could afford.  


Designed by Ferdinand Porsche

First Design - NSU Type 32

Engine:
Aircooled four cylinder, horizontally opposed, rear mounted, 1470cc, 28BHP
Transmission:
4 Speed
Suspension:
Torsion bar and swing axle
Top Speed:
56 MPH
Wheel Base:
102 Inches
Weight:
870kg unladen

June 22nd 1934 The German automobile manufactures association signed a contract with Porsche to develop the ‘PEOPLES CAR’. Porsche had to come up with three prototypes for testing within 10 months, but due to redesigning to keep the cost down the prototypes where not delivered until 1936. In 1937 Volkswagen was founded and Hitler named the new beetle the KDF car (Kraft-Durch-Freude or Strength Through Joy)