1961 Volkswagen Beetle Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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(9 reviews)
1961 Volkswagen Beetle Preview summaryImage

For the first time in several years, the Volkswagen Beetle got a bump in power. The output of the Beetle's four-cylinder, 1200cc (1.2-liter) aluminum-magnesium engine was increased to 40 horsepower, up from 36 the previous year. Upgrades were also made to the Beetle's fuel pump, transmission, fuel tank, cooling fan, and starter switch.

In addition, the brake-fluid reservoir was now transparent, so you could see the fluid level, and the heater pipes were enlarged.

Other features of the 1961 Beetle included sun visors for the driver and passenger, coat hooks, assist straps, an automatic windshield washer, an overhead light, and luggage space under the front hood and in a three-foot carpeted compartment behind the rear seat.

A four-speed transmission, independent front suspension and telescopic shock absorbers were also part of the Beetle package.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published Aug 9, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
While we highlight specific author bylines where possible, sometimes our content results from the combined efforts of several members of the CarGurus editorial team. As with all our editorial content, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.

User reviews for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle

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by Anonymous
Feb 26, 2012
His full name is "Frankenstein" because he has parts from multiple donors ;) He has character. Frankenstein has been well maintained mechanically. Frankie has a slide rag top, a 1600cc engine, an Empi short shifter , and he is about three different colors.Feb 26, 2012
by Ed A
Aug 28, 2008
I bought this car in 97 it had been imported to the UK in the 80s form south Africa, having spent the first 20 years in a rain free environment it cant have rotted much however when it came over here it did due mostly to the heater channels being full of African sand and holding the great British weather in them to rot from the inside out. only had the car on the road for a week before it under steered in to a ditch forcing me into the restoration. 11 years on and still spread over a few garages due to LR super beetles not actually knowing anything about beetles and fitting the wrong frame head to the otherwise restored pan and me not really doing much to it since it left the paint shop in 98 Aug 28, 2008
by Jonathan G
Aug 08, 2008
Well what can you say about a car that's been around for over 47 years. Yeah it's old but this one is like new... now! Once it's on the road I'll tell you all about it ;o) That should be next week with a small 1200 motor but the big 2L lump will go in next spring.Aug 08, 2008

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