The classic Volkswagen Beetle is undeniably charming. It has a straightforward, easy-to-maintain air-cooled engine. And nearly any handy mechanic can repair the entire car. The Bug isn’t fancy, making it one of the best first classic cars to own and maintain.
But they’re everywhere. VW built more than 20 million worldwide—from the 1930s through to the early 2000s. So enthusiasts wanting the Beetle’s simplicity but with a unique flair can substitute the 1977 Volkswagen Brasilia, like the one recently offered on eBay.
Flavors of Beetle from Around the World
The Brasilia has all the mechanical ease of the Beetle, but in a modern three-door hatchback body style that will turn heads in the US. This sweet hatch—as its name indicates—is native to Brazil. But wait, isn’t Volkswagen German?
Of course. The original Beetle was initially produced in pre-war Germany, but eventually, VW people’s car found its way around the world. Factories in Australia, Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, Nigeria, and South Africa produced millions of them. Volkswagen found a ready market virtually anywhere that an inexpensive car could get people moving.
Volkswagen found that Brazilians in the 1970s were looking for a practical, slightly larger modern hatchback. The Brasilia, offered in three-door and five-door styles, was one answer. It was mechanically very similar to the Beetle but with a larger 1600cc flat-four engine and a chassis derived from the Karmann Ghia sports car.
Also, read this: Volkswagen’s Forgotten Ill-Fated Sports Car for Brazil.
44 Horsepower
The Brasilia is not a sports car by any stretch of the imagination. Not with only 44 horsepower. Contemporary reports list its zero-to-100 km/h time at 23 seconds. Drag races could be timed with a sundial.
But it was a great way to get around much of South America on the cheap, and it’s mechanically identical to millions of other VWs. Moreover, the aftermarket support is incredible. Parts are readily available on eBay. Mechanical know-how is just a click away.
Shop now for Volkswagen Beetle parts
We love this funky Brasilia. It has been well maintained—with bright yellow paintwork and mostly straight brightwork. There might be a small crease at the bottom of the passenger door, but it’s uncertain. The roll-back sunroof would be delightful on warm days.
Wonderful Wicker
The interior looks remarkably Spartan, but there are a few notable changes from stock. The head unit is likely from the 1980s, while speakers from the ‘90s are fitted in the rear panels.
The most remarkable change is the parcel shelf fitted below the dashboard. It’s probably a novel local-market add-on. Or is it a cast-off wicker table cut down to fit? Either way, it’s creative—and utilitarian.
The seller offers little information other than noting that it’s a “fun car.” Maybe that’s all you need to know about this 1977 Volkswagen Brasilia.
