
Pusan refers to the standard version of the Santana, which is the abbreviation for the Volkswagen Santana 87 model, distinguishing it from the Santana 2000 and newer Santana models. Below is some related information about the Santana: 1. The Santana is equipped with 1.4L and 1.6L engines, codenamed EA211. This series of engines comes in two displacements, with the 1.4L engine delivering a maximum power of 66kW and the 1.6L engine delivering a maximum power of 81kW. Both engines feature a lighter all-aluminum structure. The transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed Tiptronic automatic. The suspension setup consists of front MacPherson independent suspension and rear torsion beam non-independent suspension. 2. Higher-end models are equipped with ESP, cruise control, and leather seats. Some manual transmission models also come with automatic air conditioning.

I first remember the Volkswagen Santana in the early 1980s when I was still underage. Back then, many taxis on the streets were this model—it was actually the original version of the Volkswagen Santana, based on the German Passat B2 design, later introduced and produced in China. From the late 1980s to the 1990s, it almost became the dominant presence on Chinese roads, especially as taxis, known for being economical and durable, capable of running hundreds of thousands of kilometers without major issues. People from my generation often called it the 'People's Car' because it was affordable, reliable, and easy to repair, making it accessible to ordinary folks who saved up to buy one. Its boxy exterior and simple yet functional interior became a defining memory for our generation. Looking back now, it was one of the first forces driving the popularization of private cars in China, embodying the entrepreneurial spirit of the early reform and opening-up era. Although the new Santana models today come with more technological features, the legacy of the old Santana still lingers, deserving our respect.

I drove a classic Santana for many years, an old car passed down from my dad, which was my daily commuter. As a classic Santana model, it was incredibly reliable to drive, with light steering and low fuel consumption—around 6L in the city and even less on highways. The spacious interior could comfortably seat three adults in the back, and the trunk could hold a ton of stuff. The 1.8L four-cylinder engine wasn’t particularly powerful but got the job done, offering smooth starts and no trouble climbing hills. The only downside was a bit of noise, but you got used to it. On the road, it felt like a dependable old friend—no major issues in 10 years, just tire and bulb replacements. For budget-conscious drivers, the Santana was a perfect match: practical, economical, and reliable enough to tackle even rough mountain roads with confidence.

The 'Pu Sang' is a nickname for the Volkswagen Santana, specifically referring to the classic version from the 1980s-90s, known for its simple and practical mechanical structure. It features a front-wheel-drive layout, equipped with a standard 1.8L gasoline engine producing around 80 horsepower, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission for smooth and reliable acceleration. The chassis is sturdy, with thick steel panels that resist dents, making it suitable for China's complex road conditions. The electrical system is low-tech, with basic mechanical controls for the dashboard and lights, making maintenance extremely easy—even replacing bulbs is a DIY task. Lightweight and aerodynamically efficient, it's fuel-saving and durable, making it the top choice for entry-level family cars. Driving it offers a taste of the genuine charm of old-school cars, and today, some modification enthusiasts specialize in restoring vintage 'Pu Sang' models to relive that classic feel.


