What is the history of the Beetle?
1 Answers
The history of the Beetle can be traced back to the 1930s, with a total production span of over 80 years from its inception to discontinuation. Originally designed by Ferdinand Porsche, the founder of Volkswagen, its primary goal was to create an affordable car for the masses—capable of carrying two adults and three children, with a top speed of 100 km/h, and priced under 1,000 Deutsche Marks. The first-generation Beetle was produced from 1938 to 2003, featuring a sleek and practical design. Its most distinctive characteristic was its body shape, widely regarded as a masterpiece of streamlined design at the time. On July 30, 2003, the last classic Beetle rolled off the production line at Volkswagen's Mexico factory, with total production reaching 21,529,464 units—surpassing the Ford Model T to become one of the most legendary and successful car models in history. The second-generation Beetle, produced from 1998 to 2012, is considered a classic among Beetle enthusiasts and was highly popular. This generation was also introduced to the Chinese market as an imported vehicle, with its iconic "5-valve" engine offering a thrilling driving experience for affluent buyers of the era. The third-generation Beetle, produced from 2012 to 2019, was available with three TSI gasoline engines (1.2T, 1.4T, and 2.0T) and two TDI diesel engines (1.6L and 2.0L), paired with either a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, or DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. The final iteration adopted a "neo-classic" design, blending Volkswagen's minimalist family styling while retaining the Beetle's iconic features—such as round headlights, an arched roof, U-shaped engine layout, and the prominent fender design that had become a timeless hallmark over the years.
