The Supersleeper Project ~ Subaru WRX Powered VW Super Beetle

YouTuber John Reynolds chose a 1973 Super Beetle for his project for a few reasons…

First, the flat windshield standard Beetle is way more popular and has been restored, modified, slammed, or patina’d probably thousands of times — it seems the Super is the car nobody wants.

Second, the ’73 is the first Bug to come with, in John’s opinion, the sexy curved front windshield. The ’74s and later had (again, in John’s opinion) the less desirable bulbous 5 mph bumpers.

Third, the Super’s wider trunk is a better fit for a wider radiator. The US Supers had built-in louvers for optional A/C which works very well to get airflow to the radiator.

Additionally, the strut front suspension just works better and gives a better ride quality that the older Beetles — plus, all of John’s projects are 1974 or older to be smog exempt in his home state of California.

Finally, John’s older brother, Jerry (RIP), had a ’73 Super Beetle years ago and he thought it was possibly the slowest car on the planet. So he rectified that problem.

But what about the ridiculous elephant foot taillights? Well, he got used to them and hopefully, nobody will slam into the back of him because they couldn’t see his brake lights…

John Goes Through the Full Build

Shakin’ Down The SuperSleeper

Somewhere in Mexico a little testing was done to get some rough times for an 1/8 mile run…

More Drive Time and More Details

Josh goes for a short, fun drive, and shares additional explanation about the car at the end that was not included in the project video…

Also of Interest:

• How To Build A Sleeper Volkswagen
• Frankenwagon ~ 1967 VW Type3 Mazda MX-5 Miata ‘Chassis’ Swap
• Volkswagen Beetle Engine Rebuild Time-Lapse
• How to Make 120hp Feel Fun ~ 1963 Beetle from Jay Leno’s Garage
• Building a Volkswagen Inspired Mini Bike in 11 Minutes